02747, North Dartmouth, Massachusetts Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 02747, North Dartmouth, Massachusetts is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.02 percent of the residents in 02747 has some form of health insurance. 31.27 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.69 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 02747 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,474 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02747. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,481 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,124 health care providers accessible to residents in 02747, North Dartmouth, Massachusetts.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: North Dartmouth (02747)

Evaluating the overall health landscape within ZIP Code 02747, encompassing North Dartmouth, requires a multi-faceted approach. We'll analyze physician availability, practice characteristics, technological integration, and mental health resources to formulate an “Overall Health Score.” This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare ecosystem, identifying strengths, weaknesses, and potential areas for improvement.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Primary Care Access**

A fundamental indicator of health access is the physician-to-patient ratio. While precise, real-time figures are difficult to obtain due to constantly shifting demographics and physician practices, we can estimate based on available data. The state of Massachusetts, in general, faces challenges in primary care access. North Dartmouth, being a part of this larger system, likely reflects similar trends. This suggests a potential for longer wait times for appointments and a higher patient load per physician. This can affect the quality of care delivered, and it is a significant factor in our overall score.

Primary care availability is a critical component. Access to a general practitioner or family doctor is often the gateway to the healthcare system. The presence of established primary care practices, accepting new patients, is crucial. We must consider the geographical distribution of these practices within the ZIP code. Are they clustered in one area, potentially creating access disparities for residents in other parts of North Dartmouth? The availability of after-hours and weekend appointments also impacts access, especially for working individuals.

**Standout Practices and their Impact**

Identifying standout practices requires evaluating several factors. Reputation, patient reviews, and the range of services offered are key considerations. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, incorporating preventative medicine and chronic disease management, should be recognized. We must also look at the integration of technology, such as electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals, which can streamline communication and improve care coordination.

Furthermore, we need to evaluate the practice's affiliations with larger healthcare systems. Partnerships with hospitals or specialty clinics can provide access to a wider range of services and expertise. The presence of specialists within the practice or readily accessible referral pathways is also important. Practices that actively participate in community outreach programs and health education initiatives contribute positively to the overall health score.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Role**

Telemedicine has rapidly evolved, particularly after the COVID-19 pandemic. Its adoption in North Dartmouth is a crucial factor. Practices that offer telehealth options, including virtual consultations and remote monitoring, can improve access to care, particularly for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Telemedicine can also facilitate follow-up appointments and medication management.

The quality of telemedicine services is critical. The technology used, the training of providers in telehealth protocols, and the security of patient data are all vital. Practices that have implemented robust telemedicine platforms and have positive patient feedback will contribute favorably to the overall health score. The ability to provide telehealth services for a wide range of conditions, not just routine follow-ups, is also a significant advantage.

**Mental Health Resources and Support**

Mental health is an integral part of overall well-being. The availability of mental health resources in North Dartmouth is a crucial component of our analysis. This includes the presence of psychiatrists, therapists, counselors, and support groups. The accessibility of these resources, including insurance acceptance and wait times for appointments, is important.

The integration of mental health services within primary care practices is also a positive factor. This can facilitate early detection and treatment of mental health conditions. The availability of crisis intervention services and support for substance abuse disorders also contributes to a higher overall health score. Community outreach programs and mental health awareness campaigns are also crucial.

**Overall Health Score and Conclusion**

Based on the above analysis, assigning a precise numerical “Overall Health Score” is challenging without access to real-time, granular data. However, we can make some general conclusions. The physician-to-patient ratio in North Dartmouth likely presents a moderate challenge, potentially impacting access to primary care. The presence of established primary care practices, offering a range of services, is a positive factor. The adoption of telemedicine, while likely present, needs to be evaluated for its scope and quality. The availability and accessibility of mental health resources are critical areas to assess, as this is a crucial area of healthcare.

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in North Dartmouth, including the geographical distribution of practices, the availability of specific services, and the integration of technology, consider exploring interactive mapping tools. These tools can provide a visual representation of the data, allowing for a more in-depth analysis.