20010, Washington, District of Columbia Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 20010, Washington, District of Columbia is 100 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.69 percent of the residents in 20010 has some form of health insurance. 26.73 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.95 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 20010 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,672 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 138 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 20010. An estimate of 29 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,372 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 22,305 health care providers accessible to residents in 20010, Washington, District of Columbia.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 20010 and Primary Care Availability in Washington

Analyzing hypertension care within ZIP Code 20010 and the broader context of primary care availability in Washington necessitates a multi-faceted approach. This involves evaluating physician accessibility, quality of care indicators, and the integration of supportive services. A 'Hypertension Score' isn't a formal, universally recognized metric, but rather a composite assessment based on available data and expert insights. We'll break down the key components influencing this score, offering a granular look at the challenges and opportunities.

The cornerstone of hypertension management is access to a primary care physician (PCP). Within ZIP Code 20010, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. Data from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and local healthcare networks can provide insights into the number of PCPs practicing within the area and the estimated patient population. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can significantly hinder timely access to appointments, preventative screenings, and ongoing management of hypertension. This can lead to delayed diagnoses and poorer outcomes.

Beyond sheer numbers, the type of primary care available is important. Are there enough practices accepting new patients? Do these practices offer a range of services, including comprehensive physical exams, blood pressure monitoring, and medication management? Practices offering extended hours, weekend appointments, and telehealth options are likely to score higher on our Hypertension Score due to increased accessibility.

A crucial aspect of the analysis is the quality of care provided. This involves assessing the practices' adherence to evidence-based guidelines for hypertension management. This includes regular blood pressure checks, recommendations for lifestyle modifications (diet, exercise, smoking cessation), and the appropriate prescription and monitoring of antihypertensive medications. Data from insurance providers, patient satisfaction surveys, and public health reports can offer clues about the quality of care.

Standout practices within 20010 and the broader Washington area deserve recognition. These practices may demonstrate exceptional commitment to hypertension management through innovative programs, patient education initiatives, or strong patient outcomes. Identifying these practices requires a deeper dive into their specific practices. Some might be leading the way in patient-centered care, perhaps offering personalized treatment plans tailored to individual patient needs and preferences. Others might excel at patient education, ensuring patients understand their condition and actively participate in their care.

Telemedicine adoption is another key component of our Hypertension Score. Telehealth can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in underserved areas. Practices utilizing telehealth for virtual consultations, medication management, and remote blood pressure monitoring are likely to score higher. Telemedicine can also facilitate timely follow-up appointments and provide ongoing support, leading to improved blood pressure control.

The integration of mental health resources is also crucial. Hypertension is often linked to stress and anxiety, and addressing these underlying issues can significantly improve patient outcomes. Practices that offer on-site mental health services or have established referral networks with mental health professionals are likely to score higher. This integrated approach recognizes the interconnectedness of physical and mental well-being, leading to more holistic and effective care.

Primary care availability in Washington, beyond the specific confines of 20010, is a broader concern. The state's overall physician-to-patient ratio and the distribution of PCPs across different communities are important factors. Areas with limited access to primary care may experience higher rates of uncontrolled hypertension and related complications. Public health initiatives aimed at increasing the number of PCPs, particularly in underserved areas, are crucial for improving overall health outcomes.

The role of community health centers and federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) is also important. These centers often provide affordable and accessible primary care services to vulnerable populations, including those with hypertension. Assessing the presence and capacity of these centers within the Washington area is essential for understanding the overall landscape of hypertension care.

Furthermore, the impact of social determinants of health cannot be ignored. Factors such as socioeconomic status, access to healthy food, and safe housing can significantly influence a patient's ability to manage their hypertension. Practices that are aware of these factors and provide resources or referrals to address them are likely to score higher.

The use of electronic health records (EHRs) is another critical factor. EHRs facilitate the tracking of patient data, the sharing of information between providers, and the implementation of clinical decision support tools. Practices that effectively utilize EHRs are better equipped to manage hypertension and improve patient outcomes.

Finally, patient education and empowerment are essential. Practices that provide patients with the knowledge and tools they need to manage their condition are likely to see better results. This includes providing information about healthy lifestyle choices, medication adherence, and self-monitoring techniques.

In conclusion, the 'Hypertension Score' for doctors in ZIP Code 20010 and the broader context of primary care availability in Washington is a complex assessment. It considers physician access, quality of care, telemedicine adoption, mental health integration, and the impact of social determinants of health. Understanding these factors is essential for improving hypertension management and ultimately, the health of the community.

To gain a visual understanding of physician distribution, patient demographics, and the availability of resources within ZIP Code 20010 and throughout Washington, explore the interactive maps available through CartoChrome. Visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape.