02738, Marion, Massachusetts Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 02738, Marion, Massachusetts is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.56 percent of the residents in 02738 has some form of health insurance. 35.98 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.06 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 02738 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,227 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02738. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,233 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,062 health care providers accessible to residents in 02738, Marion, Massachusetts.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Marion, MA (ZIP Code 02738)

This analysis provides an overall health score assessment for the medical landscape within ZIP code 02738, focusing specifically on the availability and quality of primary care in Marion, Massachusetts. The evaluation considers various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive picture of the healthcare environment and highlight areas of strength and potential improvement.

The foundation of a healthy community rests upon accessible primary care. In Marion, the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial indicator of accessibility. Determining the exact ratio requires accessing up-to-date data from sources like the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine and the US Census Bureau. A favorable ratio, indicating a sufficient number of physicians to serve the population, is essential for timely appointments, preventative care, and overall health management. Conversely, a low ratio can lead to longer wait times, increased patient burden, and potential delays in diagnosis and treatment. This analysis assumes the availability of this data, which would be used to calculate the specific ratio for Marion.

Identifying standout primary care practices is a key component of this assessment. These practices are evaluated based on several criteria. Patient reviews, often available through online platforms like Healthgrades or Vitals, provide valuable insights into patient satisfaction, communication skills, and the overall experience. Accreditation status from organizations like the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) can also be a significant indicator of quality, demonstrating adherence to established standards of care. Furthermore, the range of services offered, including preventative screenings, chronic disease management, and specialized care coordination, contributes to the overall score. Specific practices in Marion would be evaluated based on these metrics, highlighting those that excel in patient care and service delivery.

Telemedicine has rapidly transformed healthcare delivery, especially in the wake of recent global events. Its adoption in Marion is a critical aspect of this analysis. The availability of virtual appointments, remote monitoring tools, and online patient portals significantly enhances accessibility, particularly for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are often better positioned to provide convenient and timely care. The analysis assesses the extent of telemedicine integration, including the types of services offered virtually, the ease of use for patients, and the overall impact on patient outcomes.

Mental health resources are an integral part of overall well-being. The availability of mental health services within the Marion area is a key consideration. This includes the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors, as well as the availability of mental health support groups and crisis intervention services. The analysis investigates the accessibility of these resources, including appointment wait times, insurance acceptance, and the integration of mental health services within primary care practices. A strong emphasis on mental health integration is crucial for a holistic approach to healthcare.

Beyond the core services, the analysis considers other factors that contribute to the overall health score. These include the availability of specialized care, such as cardiology, endocrinology, and gastroenterology, within a reasonable distance. The presence of urgent care facilities or after-hours clinics can also improve access to care. Furthermore, the analysis considers the community's health literacy, health education programs, and initiatives aimed at promoting healthy lifestyles. The presence of these additional resources and programs strengthens the overall health score for the community.

The assessment of these factors culminates in an overall health score for the Marion area. The score is not a single number but rather a nuanced evaluation that reflects the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare environment. A higher score indicates a more robust and accessible healthcare system, while a lower score suggests areas that require improvement. The score serves as a valuable tool for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers, providing insights into the quality and availability of care within the community.

Specific areas for improvement might include increasing the number of primary care physicians to improve the physician-to-patient ratio, expanding telemedicine offerings to enhance accessibility, and increasing the availability of mental health services. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government is crucial to address these challenges and improve the overall health of the community.

This analysis provides a snapshot of the healthcare landscape in Marion, Massachusetts, ZIP code 02738. The data and insights presented are designed to inform and empower individuals, healthcare providers, and community stakeholders. The goal is to foster a healthier and more vibrant community by identifying areas of strength and opportunities for growth.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Marion and visualize the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps provide a powerful tool for visualizing data and identifying patterns, enabling a more comprehensive understanding of healthcare access and availability.