02879, Wakefield, Rhode Island Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 02879, Wakefield, Rhode Island is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.16 percent of the residents in 02879 has some form of health insurance. 38.81 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.43 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 02879 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,269 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02879. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,400 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,108 health care providers accessible to residents in 02879, Wakefield, Rhode Island.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Wakefield, RI (ZIP Code 02879)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Wakefield, Rhode Island (ZIP code 02879) necessitates a multi-faceted analysis. This evaluation considers not only the quantity of healthcare providers but also the quality of care, accessibility, and availability of crucial resources. We'll examine the physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and delve into the availability of mental health resources.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a foundational metric. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally suggests better access to care. Analyzing data from sources like the Rhode Island Department of Health and the US Census Bureau allows us to calculate this ratio for Wakefield. This calculation requires identifying the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) actively practicing within the 02879 ZIP code and comparing that number to the population of Wakefield. The result provides a crucial baseline understanding of the potential for timely appointments and ongoing care.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality and reputation of local practices are critical. Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive. This involves examining patient reviews, assessing the range of services offered, and evaluating the integration of technology. Practices that consistently receive positive feedback regarding patient experience, offer comprehensive services (including preventative care, chronic disease management, and specialized services), and embrace technological advancements are likely to score higher. This analysis also considers factors such as the availability of extended hours, weekend appointments, and the ability to communicate with providers through patient portals.

Telemedicine adoption is another key indicator of health score. The ability to access healthcare remotely, through video consultations, phone calls, and secure messaging, significantly enhances accessibility, particularly for those with mobility limitations, transportation challenges, or busy schedules. Evaluating the extent of telemedicine integration within Wakefield's healthcare landscape involves assessing the number of practices offering telemedicine services, the types of services available via telemedicine, and the ease with which patients can access and utilize these services. Practices that actively promote and effectively utilize telemedicine platforms will contribute positively to the overall health score.

Mental health resources are an essential component of overall well-being, and their availability significantly impacts the health score. Assessing the mental health landscape in Wakefield requires evaluating the presence of psychiatrists, therapists, counselors, and mental health clinics within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas. This includes examining the availability of services for various age groups and mental health conditions. Furthermore, the presence of support groups, crisis intervention services, and partnerships between primary care practices and mental health providers are all important factors. The integration of mental health services within the broader healthcare system, allowing for seamless referrals and coordinated care, is a key indicator of a strong health score.

The assessment of primary care availability in Wakefield also considers factors beyond the simple physician-to-patient ratio. This includes the ease of scheduling appointments, the wait times for appointments, and the acceptance of various insurance plans. Practices that prioritize patient convenience, offer efficient appointment scheduling systems, and accept a wide range of insurance providers contribute to increased accessibility and a higher overall health score. Furthermore, the availability of walk-in clinics or urgent care centers within or near the 02879 ZIP code provides additional access to care for immediate medical needs.

The overall health score is not a static number but rather a dynamic assessment that reflects the evolving healthcare landscape. Regular updates and revisions are necessary to account for changes in physician availability, the adoption of new technologies, and the emergence of new healthcare providers. This ongoing evaluation ensures that the health score accurately reflects the current state of healthcare in Wakefield.

The integration of these factors creates a comprehensive picture of the health landscape. The analysis of these factors allows for a more nuanced understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in Wakefield. This allows for a more informed assessment of the health score.

This analysis also acknowledges that healthcare is not delivered in a vacuum. Social determinants of health, such as socioeconomic status, access to healthy food, and environmental factors, also play a significant role in overall health outcomes. While this analysis primarily focuses on the healthcare system, it is crucial to recognize the broader context in which healthcare is delivered.

The final health score will be a composite measure, reflecting the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality and reputation of local practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. This score will provide a valuable snapshot of the health of the community and can be used to identify areas for improvement. This will assist in the improvement of the health of the community.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Wakefield, including the locations of healthcare providers, the distribution of services, and potential areas of need, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provides a powerful tool for visualizing and analyzing health data, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in your community.