02896, North Smithfield, Rhode Island Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 02896, North Smithfield, Rhode Island is 86 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.08 percent of the residents in 02896 has some form of health insurance. 27.89 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 80.79 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 02896 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,356 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 10 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02896. An estimate of 7 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,210 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,680 health care providers accessible to residents in 02896, North Smithfield, Rhode Island.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 02896 and Primary Care Availability in North Smithfield

Analyzing the health landscape within ZIP code 02896, encompassing North Smithfield, Rhode Island, requires a multi-faceted approach. We must consider not only the raw numbers of physicians but also the quality of care, accessibility, and the availability of crucial support services. This analysis aims to provide an “Overall Health Score,” a composite measure reflecting the health of the community, specifically focusing on primary care.

One of the most fundamental metrics is the physician-to-patient ratio. While precise, real-time figures fluctuate, publicly available data provides a baseline. Examining the ratio reveals the potential for access challenges. A higher ratio (fewer physicians per capita) can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and ultimately, a less-personalized care experience. The national average serves as a benchmark; any deviation, especially a negative one, warrants further investigation.

Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of physicians matters. Are primary care physicians concentrated in specific areas within the ZIP code, potentially leaving other areas underserved? Geographic analysis, utilizing tools like mapping software, is crucial for identifying health deserts, areas where access to care is significantly limited. This spatial awareness helps to pinpoint areas needing targeted interventions, such as community health centers or mobile medical units.

Identifying standout practices is another critical component. These practices often serve as models for best practices in patient care. They might excel in areas like patient satisfaction, chronic disease management, or preventative care. Examining patient reviews, accreditation status, and the adoption of innovative technologies can help identify these high-performing practices. These practices can serve as examples for others in the area.

Telemedicine adoption is a significant factor in modern healthcare. Practices embracing telemedicine offer patients increased convenience, especially for follow-up appointments, medication management, and addressing minor health concerns. Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for residents with mobility issues or those living in geographically isolated areas. Assessing the availability and accessibility of telemedicine services within the ZIP code is essential for determining the overall health score.

Mental health resources are an indispensable part of a holistic health assessment. Primary care physicians often serve as the first point of contact for individuals experiencing mental health concerns. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed therapists, within the community is crucial. Examining the integration of mental health services within primary care practices, the presence of community-based mental health clinics, and the availability of crisis intervention services are all essential components of the analysis.

The integration of technology into healthcare delivery significantly impacts the overall health score. Electronic health records (EHRs) allow for better coordination of care, improved communication between providers, and enhanced patient data management. Practices utilizing patient portals, allowing patients to access their medical records, schedule appointments, and communicate with their providers, are generally considered to provide a more patient-centered experience. Assessing the technological capabilities of the practices within the ZIP code is a key consideration.

The quality of care is paramount. This involves evaluating the practices' adherence to established clinical guidelines, their performance on quality metrics (e.g., diabetes control, blood pressure management), and their commitment to patient safety. Analyzing data from sources like the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) can provide valuable insights into the quality of care delivered within the community.

The demographics of the population served by the physicians in 02896 also play a crucial role. Factors such as age, socioeconomic status, and cultural background can influence health outcomes and access to care. Understanding the specific needs of the population allows for the development of targeted interventions and the allocation of resources where they are most needed.

Accessibility is another vital aspect. This encompasses factors like insurance acceptance, language proficiency of staff, and the availability of transportation to medical appointments. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans and offer services in multiple languages are generally considered to be more accessible to a diverse population.

Finally, community partnerships play a crucial role. Collaborative efforts between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government agencies can enhance access to care, improve health outcomes, and address social determinants of health. Examining the extent of these partnerships within the ZIP code provides valuable insights into the overall health score.

In conclusion, assessing the overall health score for doctors in ZIP code 02896 and primary care availability in North Smithfield requires a comprehensive evaluation. This includes physician-to-patient ratios, the identification of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, the integration of technology, the quality of care, the demographics of the population served, accessibility, and the presence of community partnerships. A thorough analysis of these factors provides a more complete picture of the health landscape.

To gain a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of healthcare resources and the spatial relationships between various factors impacting health within North Smithfield, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps offer a powerful visualization tool for analyzing health data and identifying areas needing attention.