02702, Assonet, Massachusetts Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 02702, Assonet, Massachusetts is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.71 percent of the residents in 02702 has some form of health insurance. 30.48 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.03 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 02702 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 932 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02702. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 774 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,683 health care providers accessible to residents in 02702, Assonet, Massachusetts.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Assonet, MA (ZIP Code 02702)

This analysis provides an overall health score assessment for the residents of Assonet, Massachusetts (ZIP code 02702), focusing on the availability and quality of primary care services. The assessment considers various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The goal is to paint a comprehensive picture of the healthcare landscape in Assonet and to identify areas of strength and potential improvement.

The foundation of a healthy community rests on the availability of accessible primary care. In Assonet, this translates to understanding the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes. While precise, up-to-the-minute physician-to-patient ratios fluctuate, data from sources like the Massachusetts Medical Society and the US Census Bureau can provide a general estimate. It is crucial to compare this ratio to state and national averages to gauge Assonet's standing. A ratio significantly higher than the averages could indicate a shortage of primary care physicians, a critical area of concern.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Identifying standout practices involves evaluating factors like patient satisfaction, the range of services offered, and the adoption of modern medical technologies. Practices with a strong reputation often boast board-certified physicians, a comprehensive suite of services (including preventative care, chronic disease management, and immunizations), and a commitment to patient-centered care. Patient reviews on platforms like Healthgrades and Zocdoc, alongside data from the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), can offer insights into patient experiences and practice performance. The presence of practices that are recognized for their excellence significantly elevates the overall health score of the community.

Telemedicine has emerged as a transformative force in healthcare, particularly in rural or underserved areas. Its adoption in Assonet is a key indicator of healthcare accessibility. Practices that offer telemedicine consultations, remote monitoring, and virtual follow-ups can improve patient convenience, reduce travel burdens, and expand access to care, especially for those with mobility issues or transportation challenges. Assessing the prevalence of telemedicine involves examining practice websites, contacting providers directly, and reviewing telehealth adoption surveys. Widespread telemedicine adoption contributes positively to the overall health score.

Mental health is an integral component of overall well-being, and the availability of mental health resources is crucial. This includes access to psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors, as well as support groups and mental health programs. Assessing the availability of mental health services involves researching local providers, examining the presence of mental health clinics, and evaluating the accessibility of crisis intervention services. The integration of mental healthcare into primary care settings, where primary care physicians can screen for mental health issues and provide initial treatment or referrals, is particularly beneficial. A robust mental health infrastructure significantly enhances the community's overall health score.

The physical infrastructure of healthcare facilities also plays a role. Modern, well-equipped facilities contribute to a positive patient experience and can facilitate the delivery of high-quality care. This includes the availability of advanced diagnostic equipment, comfortable waiting areas, and accessible examination rooms. The presence of a local hospital or urgent care center provides crucial emergency services and supports the overall healthcare ecosystem. The quality and accessibility of these facilities contribute to the overall health score.

Furthermore, the integration of technology beyond telemedicine, such as electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals, can enhance care coordination and patient engagement. EHRs allow physicians to access patient information quickly and efficiently, improving communication and reducing medical errors. Patient portals empower individuals to manage their health records, schedule appointments, and communicate with their providers. The adoption of these technologies reflects a commitment to modern, patient-centered care and contributes to a higher overall health score.

The overall health score for Assonet (ZIP code 02702) is a composite of these factors. A high score indicates a community with readily accessible, high-quality primary care, a strong mental health infrastructure, and a commitment to modern healthcare practices. A lower score suggests areas for improvement, such as addressing physician shortages, expanding telemedicine adoption, and enhancing mental health resources. Regular assessments and ongoing efforts to address identified weaknesses are essential for maintaining and improving the community's health.

In conclusion, a thorough understanding of the healthcare landscape in Assonet is crucial for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers. By carefully evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and evaluating the accessibility of mental health resources, a comprehensive picture of the community's health can be developed. This analysis serves as a starting point for further investigation and action.

For a more detailed, visual representation of healthcare resources in Assonet and surrounding areas, including the location of practices, hospitals, and mental health facilities, we recommend exploring the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. Their platform provides a powerful tool for visualizing and analyzing healthcare data, enabling a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape and its impact on the community.