02918, Providence, Rhode Island Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 02918, Providence, Rhode Island is 0 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.85 percent of the residents in 02918 has some form of health insurance. 6.48 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 89.91 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 02918 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 562 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 11 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02918. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 10 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,821 health care providers accessible to residents in 02918, Providence, Rhode Island.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Providence, RI (ZIP Code 02918) and Primary Care Availability

Analyzing the overall health landscape in Providence, Rhode Island, specifically within the 02918 ZIP code, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the accessibility of mental health resources. Ultimately, this will culminate in an "Overall Health Score" assessment for the area.

The foundation of any healthy community lies in accessible primary care. In Providence, and particularly within 02918, evaluating this accessibility necessitates examining the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) relative to the population. While precise, real-time physician-to-patient ratios are dynamic and fluctuate, publicly available data from sources like the Rhode Island Department of Health and the US Census Bureau can provide estimates. These estimates, however, must be interpreted cautiously, as they don't account for factors such as insurance acceptance, patient demographics, and physician specialization. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of PCPs, could lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and potentially, poorer health outcomes.

Several primary care practices within and near the 02918 ZIP code are known for their commitment to patient care. Identifying "standout practices" involves evaluating factors beyond simple physician numbers. This includes considering patient reviews, quality metrics (e.g., those reported to the National Committee for Quality Assurance), and the availability of ancillary services. Practices that offer extended hours, same-day appointments, and integrated care models (e.g., behavioral health services within the practice) often receive higher ratings. Furthermore, practices that actively engage in preventative care, such as regular screenings and vaccinations, contribute significantly to community health.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The ability to access healthcare remotely offers numerous benefits, including increased convenience, reduced travel time, and improved access for individuals with mobility limitations or those living in underserved areas. Assessing telemedicine adoption requires investigating which practices within 02918 offer telehealth services, the types of services available (e.g., virtual consultations, medication management), and the ease of use of their platforms. Practices with robust telemedicine programs can potentially improve access to care and overall health outcomes.

Mental health resources are a critical component of overall health. The availability and accessibility of mental health services within 02918 significantly impact the community's well-being. This analysis must consider the presence of mental health providers (e.g., psychiatrists, therapists, counselors), the availability of mental health clinics, and the integration of mental health services into primary care practices. Furthermore, it is crucial to assess the availability of support groups, crisis intervention services, and resources for substance abuse treatment. A community with readily available mental health support systems tends to experience better mental and physical health outcomes.

Analyzing all these factors, we can begin to formulate an “Overall Health Score” for the 02918 ZIP code. This score is not a single, definitive number, but rather a composite assessment based on the various elements discussed. The score would be influenced by the physician-to-patient ratio, with a lower ratio (fewer doctors per patient) negatively impacting the score. The presence of standout practices, particularly those with integrated care models and strong patient satisfaction ratings, would positively influence the score. High telemedicine adoption rates would also contribute positively, as would a robust network of mental health resources. Conversely, a lack of primary care providers, limited telemedicine options, and a scarcity of mental health services would negatively impact the score.

The overall health score should also account for social determinants of health. This includes factors such as socioeconomic status, access to healthy food options, housing quality, and environmental conditions. These factors can significantly impact health outcomes, and a comprehensive assessment must consider them. For example, a community with high rates of poverty and limited access to nutritious food might experience poorer health outcomes, even if the physician-to-patient ratio is favorable.

In conclusion, the overall health score for the 02918 ZIP code is likely to be moderate. While Providence boasts a number of reputable medical institutions, access to primary care and mental health resources may be challenging for some residents. The presence of standout practices and increasing telemedicine adoption are positive indicators. However, challenges related to social determinants of health and the need for improved access to mental health services could negatively impact the overall score. Continuous monitoring and improvement of these areas are crucial for enhancing the health and well-being of the community.

To further explore the health landscape of Providence, Rhode Island, and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, consider utilizing the mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. CartoChrome provides a powerful platform for visualizing data, allowing you to analyze physician locations, patient demographics, and other relevant information to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare ecosystem.