02917, Smithfield, Rhode Island Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 02917, Smithfield, Rhode Island is 86 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.17 percent of the residents in 02917 has some form of health insurance. 25.96 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.90 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 02917 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,225 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 11 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02917. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,231 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,595 health care providers accessible to residents in 02917, Smithfield, Rhode Island.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: 02917 Doctors and Smithfield Primary Care

This analysis delves into the overall health landscape within ZIP code 02917, encompassing the availability and quality of healthcare services, particularly focusing on primary care access within the broader context of Smithfield, Rhode Island. We aim to provide a comprehensive ‘Overall Health Score’ assessment, considering various factors impacting community well-being.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Access:**

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of healthcare accessibility. Analyzing this metric for 02917 reveals a complex picture. While precise, real-time figures fluctuate, publicly available data from sources like the Rhode Island Department of Health and the US Census Bureau, when analyzed together, suggest a potential shortage of primary care physicians relative to the population. This means that, on average, each primary care physician may be responsible for a larger number of patients, potentially impacting appointment availability and the time physicians can dedicate to each patient. This situation is further complicated by the demographics of Smithfield, which includes a significant elderly population, a demographic typically requiring more frequent medical attention.

The geographical distribution of physicians within 02917 also plays a role. Even if the overall physician-to-patient ratio appears adequate, the concentration of practices in certain areas may leave other parts of the ZIP code underserved. This can necessitate longer travel times for patients, particularly those with limited mobility or transportation options. The proximity to neighboring communities with greater healthcare resources also influences the overall picture, as residents may seek care outside of 02917.

**Standout Practices and Service Quality:**

Identifying "standout" practices requires a multi-faceted evaluation. This includes assessing factors like patient reviews, the range of services offered, the adoption of technology, and adherence to quality metrics. Practices with consistently high patient satisfaction scores, as reflected in online reviews and surveys, are strong indicators of positive patient experiences. Furthermore, practices that offer a comprehensive range of services, including preventive care, chronic disease management, and specialized services (e.g., women's health, geriatric care), are often highly valued.

The adoption of technology, such as electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals, is also crucial. EHRs streamline administrative processes, improve communication between healthcare providers, and facilitate better coordination of care. Patient portals empower patients to access their medical records, schedule appointments, and communicate with their physicians online, improving convenience and patient engagement. Practices that are actively implementing and utilizing these technologies tend to be better positioned to provide high-quality care.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Impact:**

Telemedicine has gained significant traction, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Its adoption in 02917 offers both opportunities and challenges. Telemedicine can expand access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations, those living in geographically remote areas, or those who prefer the convenience of virtual appointments. It can also facilitate quicker access to care for certain conditions, such as follow-up appointments or medication refills.

However, the successful implementation of telemedicine requires adequate infrastructure, including reliable internet access and patient familiarity with technology. Moreover, not all medical conditions are suitable for telemedicine consultations. The availability of telemedicine services within 02917, and their integration with existing healthcare practices, is a key factor in assessing the overall health score. Practices that offer telemedicine options, particularly for routine follow-ups and consultations, are contributing to improved access and convenience.

**Mental Health Resources and Integration:**

Mental health is an integral component of overall well-being, and the availability of mental health resources is a crucial factor in assessing the health landscape of 02917. This includes the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors, as well as the availability of mental health support groups and community-based mental health services.

The integration of mental health services into primary care practices is particularly important. This can involve co-locating mental health professionals within primary care settings or establishing referral pathways between primary care physicians and mental health specialists. Such integration facilitates early identification and treatment of mental health conditions, reducing stigma and improving patient outcomes. The presence of such integrated services within 02917 contributes significantly to a higher overall health score.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

Based on the factors discussed, the overall health score for 02917 and the primary care availability in Smithfield presents a mixed picture. While the community benefits from access to some high-quality practices and the increasing adoption of telemedicine, challenges remain regarding physician-to-patient ratios, potential geographical disparities in access, and the availability of integrated mental health services. Further investigation into specific practice characteristics, patient satisfaction data, and the availability of community-based resources is necessary to provide a more granular and accurate assessment.

**Call to Action:**

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in 02917 and Smithfield, and to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome allows you to visualize physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and other relevant data points, providing a valuable tool for assessing healthcare access and identifying areas of need. Visit CartoChrome today to explore the health landscape of 02917 and Smithfield.