06280, Windham, Connecticut Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 06280, Windham, Connecticut is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.14 percent of the residents in 06280 has some form of health insurance. 35.74 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.81 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 06280 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 694 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 06280. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 540 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 426 health care providers accessible to residents in 06280, Windham, Connecticut.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Windham, CT (ZIP Code 06280)

This analysis delves into the landscape of hypertension management within ZIP code 06280 (Windham, CT), focusing on primary care physician availability, quality of care indicators, and resources available to patients. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" assessment, evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem in addressing this prevalent condition.

Windham, CT, presents a unique demographic profile. Understanding the community's specific needs is crucial for developing effective hypertension management strategies. Factors such as socioeconomic status, age distribution, and access to healthy food options all play a role in hypertension prevalence and control rates. This analysis will consider these factors implicitly as we examine the available resources.

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

A critical element of the Hypertension Score is the physician-to-patient ratio. Accurate data on the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) actively practicing within ZIP code 06280 is essential. We need to ascertain the number of PCPs per 1,000 residents. A lower ratio indicates potentially limited access to care, leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced opportunities for regular check-ups, which are vital for hypertension management. A high ratio, conversely, suggests better access.

Beyond the raw numbers, the types of PCPs available matter. Are there enough family medicine physicians, internal medicine specialists, and geriatricians to serve the diverse needs of the community? The presence of specialists like cardiologists, who can offer advanced diagnostic and treatment options, also contributes to the overall quality of care. We need to evaluate the availability of these specialists, considering their proximity and the ease with which patients can access their services.

**Standout Practices and Quality of Care Indicators:**

The Hypertension Score must assess the quality of care provided by individual practices. This involves examining various indicators. Data on the percentage of patients with hypertension who have their blood pressure under control is a key metric. This data is often collected through electronic health records (EHRs) and can be used to compare the performance of different practices.

Other important indicators include the frequency of blood pressure screenings, the use of evidence-based guidelines for hypertension treatment, and the rates of medication adherence. Practices that proactively engage patients in their care, such as through patient education programs and regular follow-up appointments, often demonstrate better outcomes. We need to identify practices that excel in these areas, recognizing them as models of best practice.

We must also assess the availability of ancillary services, such as registered dietitians and certified diabetes educators. These professionals can provide valuable support to patients in managing their hypertension through lifestyle modifications, including diet and exercise. The presence of these resources within or in close proximity to primary care practices significantly enhances the ability of patients to effectively manage their condition.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Impact:**

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for hypertension management, especially in areas with limited access to care. The Hypertension Score should evaluate the extent to which local practices have adopted telemedicine technologies. This includes the use of virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and online patient portals.

Practices that utilize telemedicine can reach a wider patient population, providing convenient access to care and reducing the need for in-person visits. Remote blood pressure monitoring allows physicians to track patients' blood pressure readings regularly and adjust treatment plans as needed. Online patient portals facilitate communication between patients and their providers, enabling patients to ask questions, request prescription refills, and access educational materials. The degree of telemedicine adoption significantly impacts the overall score.

**Mental Health Resources and Their Integration:**

Hypertension is often intertwined with mental health issues, such as stress and anxiety. The Hypertension Score must consider the availability and integration of mental health resources within the local healthcare system.

Practices that offer on-site mental health services or have established referral networks with mental health professionals demonstrate a more holistic approach to patient care. Addressing the mental health needs of patients with hypertension can improve their adherence to treatment plans and overall well-being. The integration of mental health services is crucial for comprehensive hypertension management.

**Specific Considerations within Windham:**

Analyzing the specific healthcare landscape within Windham, CT, requires considering the presence of local hospitals and community health centers. These institutions often play a vital role in providing primary care services and supporting hypertension management programs. We need to assess the resources and programs offered by these institutions, including their commitment to hypertension screening, patient education, and medication management.

The analysis should also consider any specific initiatives or programs implemented by local healthcare providers or community organizations to address hypertension. This might include community outreach programs, support groups, or educational workshops. Identifying and highlighting these initiatives can showcase the community's commitment to improving hypertension outcomes.

**Conclusion and Call to Action:**

Developing a comprehensive Hypertension Score for ZIP code 06280 requires a detailed examination of physician availability, quality of care indicators, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. This analysis should identify strengths and weaknesses within the local healthcare ecosystem, providing valuable insights for patients, providers, and policymakers.

To visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, identify the location of primary care practices, and assess the proximity of specialists and ancillary services, we encourage you to explore the power of spatial data. **CartoChrome maps** offer an interactive platform to visualize and analyze the healthcare landscape, providing a powerful tool for understanding and improving hypertension management in Windham, CT. Explore the possibilities and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available to you.