02644, Forestdale, Massachusetts Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 02644, Forestdale, Massachusetts is 79 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.48 percent of the residents in 02644 has some form of health insurance. 26.12 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 84.84 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 02644 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 668 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02644. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 612 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 795 health care providers accessible to residents in 02644, Forestdale, Massachusetts.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Forestdale, MA (ZIP Code 02644)

Forestdale, Massachusetts, nestled within the 02644 ZIP code, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access and overall health. This analysis aims to provide an 'Overall Health Score' assessment, delving into the availability of primary care physicians, the quality of existing practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the presence of mental health resources. We will also explore the physician-to-patient ratio, a critical indicator of accessibility.

The foundation of any robust healthcare system is a sufficient number of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Forestdale, the physician-to-patient ratio is a significant factor. While precise figures fluctuate, the area generally experiences a ratio that mirrors or slightly exceeds the national average. This means that there might be a moderate challenge in securing timely appointments, particularly for new patients. The demand for PCPs is influenced by the region’s demographics, including a notable population of senior citizens, who often require more frequent medical attention.

The practices within Forestdale vary in their approach to patient care. Some stand out due to their commitment to comprehensive services and patient-centered care models. These practices often feature extended hours, offering evening and weekend appointments to accommodate diverse schedules. They may also have specialized programs for chronic disease management, such as diabetes or hypertension, which are crucial for maintaining the health of the local population. The integration of electronic health records (EHRs) is common, allowing for better coordination of care and access to patient information.

Telemedicine adoption is another key area of evaluation. The rise of telemedicine has the potential to enhance access to healthcare, particularly for those with mobility issues or those living in geographically isolated areas. In Forestdale, the adoption rate of telemedicine by primary care practices is moderate. Some practices offer virtual consultations for follow-up appointments, medication management, and certain types of consultations. However, the widespread adoption of telemedicine is still developing. Factors influencing this include the availability of reliable internet access in the area and patient preferences for in-person visits.

Mental health resources are an essential component of overall health. The availability of mental health services in Forestdale is an important indicator of the community's well-being. While the area has some mental health professionals, the availability of these services is a potential area of concern. The demand for mental health services can be high, and access to specialists, such as psychiatrists and therapists, may be limited. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potential gaps in care. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices, a model that allows for integrated care, is not as widespread in Forestdale as it could be.

The quality of care is reflected in patient satisfaction surveys and health outcomes data. The practices in Forestdale generally receive positive feedback from patients, with many praising the attentiveness of the physicians and the efficiency of the staff. However, there is always room for improvement, and practices are continually working to enhance their services. Health outcomes data, such as rates of chronic disease management and preventative care, are important metrics to assess the overall effectiveness of the healthcare system.

The overall health score for Forestdale, Massachusetts, within the 02644 ZIP code, is a composite of these factors. While the area benefits from dedicated physicians and a community focused on health, there are challenges to address. The physician-to-patient ratio could be improved, and the expansion of telemedicine and mental health services would significantly enhance access to care. The commitment of the existing practices to patient-centered care is a positive attribute, and the community's health outcomes are generally good.

The 'Overall Health Score' for Forestdale can be considered as moderate, with areas for improvement. The availability of primary care physicians is adequate but could benefit from an increase in the number of providers. Telemedicine adoption is growing, but further expansion would be beneficial. The availability of mental health resources is a potential area of concern, and efforts to improve access to these services are needed. The existing practices are generally providing quality care, and patient satisfaction is high.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Forestdale and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, we encourage you to explore interactive maps. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful tool for visualizing healthcare data, allowing you to analyze physician locations, hospital locations, and other relevant information. This can help you make informed decisions about your healthcare and better understand the health of the community.