02542, Buzzards Bay, Massachusetts Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 02542, Buzzards Bay, Massachusetts is 76 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 65.17 percent of the residents in 02542 has some form of health insurance. 3.07 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.46 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase. Military veterans should know that percent of the residents in the ZIP Code of 02542 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 313 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02542. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 0 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 716 health care providers accessible to residents in 02542, Buzzards Bay, Massachusetts.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Buzzards Bay, MA (ZIP Code 02542)

Assessing the overall health landscape in Buzzards Bay, Massachusetts (ZIP code 02542) requires a multi-faceted approach, considering factors beyond just the presence of doctors. This analysis will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of primary care, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, culminating in an 'Overall Health Score' perspective. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare ecosystem in this specific area.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a foundational metric. A favorable ratio indicates better access to care, while a less favorable one can suggest potential challenges in securing timely appointments and consistent medical attention. Determining the exact ratio for 02542 necessitates accessing up-to-date data from sources like the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine and the US Census Bureau. However, we can infer based on regional trends. If the area faces a shortage of primary care physicians, it is likely the ratio would be less favorable. This could translate to longer wait times, potentially impacting the preventative care that is vital for overall health.

Primary care availability is the cornerstone of a healthy community. This involves not just the number of physicians but also the accessibility of their services. Factors like insurance acceptance, office hours, and the ability to accommodate new patients are crucial. Assessing the quality of primary care involves considering factors like patient satisfaction surveys, the presence of accredited practices, and the integration of electronic health records. Practices that prioritize comprehensive care, including preventative screenings and chronic disease management, will contribute positively to the overall health score.

Identifying standout practices is vital. These are the institutions that consistently demonstrate excellence in patient care. This could involve looking for practices that have earned recognition from organizations like the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) or those that have received positive patient reviews. Practices that offer a broad range of services, including specialist referrals and on-site lab work, often provide a more holistic approach to care. These practices, by setting a high standard, can influence the overall health score positively.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. The ability to access healthcare remotely has become increasingly important, especially for those with mobility issues, transportation challenges, or those seeking convenience. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring, often demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care. The availability of telemedicine services can significantly improve access to care, especially for non-urgent issues, freeing up in-person appointments for those who need them most.

Mental health resources are an integral part of overall health. The availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is essential for addressing a wide range of issues, from anxiety and depression to more severe mental illnesses. The presence of community mental health centers, support groups, and access to crisis intervention services all contribute to a stronger mental health infrastructure. A community with robust mental health resources will generally have a higher overall health score.

Evaluating the mental health landscape involves assessing the availability of these resources and their accessibility. Factors like insurance coverage, wait times for appointments, and the diversity of services offered are all important considerations. Communities that have invested in mental health infrastructure often demonstrate a greater understanding of the interconnectedness of physical and mental well-being.

To calculate an 'Overall Health Score' for 02542, we would weigh these factors, with primary care availability and mental health resources carrying significant weight. A higher score would indicate a healthier community, with better access to care, a strong primary care foundation, and robust mental health services. The physician-to-patient ratio would be a key indicator, with a favorable ratio contributing to a higher score. Telemedicine adoption would be considered a positive factor, as it improves accessibility.

The 'Overall Health Score' is not a static number but a dynamic reflection of the healthcare environment. It is influenced by ongoing changes in demographics, healthcare policies, and the evolving needs of the community. Regular reassessment is crucial to track progress and identify areas that need improvement. For example, if the area experiences population growth, the physician-to-patient ratio may worsen, requiring proactive measures to address the potential shortage.

Furthermore, the social determinants of health must also be considered. Factors such as socioeconomic status, access to healthy food, and safe housing can significantly impact health outcomes. These factors, while not directly related to the availability of doctors, play a crucial role in the overall health of the community. A comprehensive health analysis must take these factors into account to provide a complete picture.

In conclusion, assessing the health landscape in Buzzards Bay (02542) requires a comprehensive approach. The availability of primary care, the physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of telemedicine, and the strength of mental health resources are all critical components. While a specific score cannot be provided without access to real-time data, this analysis provides a framework for understanding the key factors that influence the overall health of the community.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Buzzards Bay and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps provide a visual representation of healthcare data, allowing you to analyze the location of doctors, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities in relation to the population. Visit CartoChrome to explore the healthcare infrastructure in your area.