02543, Woods Hole, Massachusetts Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 02543, Woods Hole, Massachusetts is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.19 percent of the residents in 02543 has some form of health insurance. 61.80 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 83.55 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 02543 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 27 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02543. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 543 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 668 health care providers accessible to residents in 02543, Woods Hole, Massachusetts.

**Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors and Primary Care in Woods Hole (ZIP Code 02543)**

Evaluating the health landscape of Woods Hole, Massachusetts (ZIP code 02543) requires a nuanced understanding of its unique characteristics. This analysis provides an “Overall Health Score” assessment, considering factors such as physician availability, practice quality, telemedicine integration, and mental health resources. The score is not a single numerical value but a holistic evaluation reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem.

Woods Hole, a small coastal community, presents both advantages and challenges for healthcare access. Its relatively small population can, in some ways, facilitate closer relationships between patients and providers. However, the limited geographic area and potential for seasonal population fluctuations (due to tourism and scientific institutions) can also strain resources.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Primary Care Availability:**

A critical component of the health score is the physician-to-patient ratio. Determining this accurately for a specific ZIP code requires accessing data from sources like the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) and state medical boards. However, based on publicly available information, Woods Hole, as a small community, likely has a lower number of primary care physicians compared to larger urban areas. This can translate into longer wait times for appointments and potentially limited choices for patients seeking a primary care provider. The availability of specialists within the immediate vicinity is also a factor. Residents may need to travel to larger towns like Falmouth or even further afield for specialized care.

Primary care availability is the cornerstone of preventative medicine. The presence of accessible primary care physicians (PCPs) is crucial for managing chronic conditions, providing routine check-ups, and coordinating care. The health score reflects the ease with which residents can access a PCP, considering factors like appointment availability, insurance acceptance, and the range of services offered. The presence of a well-established primary care practice within the community significantly boosts the score.

**Standout Practices and Quality of Care:**

The quality of care is a paramount consideration. Assessing this involves examining the reputation of local practices, patient reviews, and the range of services offered. Practices that prioritize patient-centered care, employ a skilled medical staff, and demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement will contribute positively to the overall score. The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) and other technologies that enhance efficiency and patient communication also influence the assessment.

Identifying standout practices requires a thorough investigation of local healthcare providers. This includes reviewing online patient testimonials, examining the scope of services offered (e.g., preventative care, chronic disease management, etc.), and evaluating the practice's commitment to patient satisfaction. Practices with a strong reputation for providing high-quality care and a positive patient experience will be highlighted in the analysis.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Accessibility:**

Telemedicine has become increasingly important, particularly in rural or geographically isolated areas. The adoption of telemedicine by local practices can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living a distance from the practice. Telemedicine services, such as virtual consultations and remote monitoring, can enhance the health score.

The analysis evaluates the extent to which local practices have embraced telemedicine. This includes assessing the availability of virtual appointments, the use of remote patient monitoring technologies, and the ease with which patients can access these services. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their care delivery model will receive a higher score in this area.

**Mental Health Resources:**

Mental health is an integral part of overall well-being. The availability of mental health services, including therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups, significantly impacts the health score. The analysis examines the presence of mental health providers in the community, the range of services offered, and the accessibility of these resources.

The assessment considers the availability of mental health professionals, the types of services offered (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), and the accessibility of these resources. Practices that offer integrated mental health services or have established partnerships with mental health providers will contribute positively to the overall score. The presence of support groups and community resources for mental health also strengthens the score.

**Overall Health Score Summary:**

Based on the factors discussed above, the “Overall Health Score” for doctors and primary care availability in Woods Hole (ZIP code 02543) is contingent on several factors. The small size of the community presents both challenges and opportunities. While the limited number of providers might pose access challenges, the potential for close patient-provider relationships can be a significant advantage. The score will be significantly influenced by the presence of a well-established primary care practice, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources.

The score will be positively impacted by:

* A well-established primary care practice with a strong reputation.
* Practices that have embraced telemedicine to improve access to care.
* The availability of mental health services and support groups.
* Practices that prioritize patient-centered care and demonstrate a commitment to quality.

The score will be negatively impacted by:

* A limited number of primary care physicians, leading to potential access issues.
* A lack of telemedicine options.
* Limited access to mental health services.
* Practices with negative patient reviews or a lack of commitment to quality.

**Call to Action:**

For a more detailed visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Woods Hole and surrounding areas, including physician locations, practice details, and service availability, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. These maps provide valuable insights into healthcare access and can help you make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.