20037, Washington, District of Columbia Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 20037, Washington, District of Columbia is 100 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.86 percent of the residents in 20037 has some form of health insurance. 15.29 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 90.08 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 20037 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 608 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 138 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 20037. An estimate of 29 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,603 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 22,304 health care providers accessible to residents in 20037, Washington, District of Columbia.

The analysis will focus on hypertension management within the specified geographic parameters, providing a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape.

**Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 20037 and Primary Care Availability in Washington**

Evaluating hypertension management capabilities within ZIP Code 20037 and the broader Washington, D.C., area necessitates a multi-faceted approach. This analysis, structured as a “Hypertension Score,” considers factors crucial to effective hypertension control, including physician accessibility, quality of care, and availability of supporting resources. The goal is to paint a comprehensive picture, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement.

**Physician Accessibility and Patient Ratios**

The cornerstone of hypertension management is access to primary care physicians. ZIP Code 20037, encompassing Georgetown and parts of Foggy Bottom, presents a unique demographic profile, influencing physician-to-patient ratios. This area, known for its affluent residents and transient population of students and professionals, likely experiences a fluctuating demand for primary care. High physician-to-patient ratios, or a surplus of physicians relative to the population, can translate to shorter wait times for appointments and more individualized care. Conversely, low ratios can lead to appointment delays and potentially, compromised continuity of care. Data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and local hospital networks would be crucial in determining the exact physician-to-patient ratios within 20037. Further investigation would involve examining the number of primary care physicians, internal medicine specialists, and cardiologists actively practicing within the zip code.

Across Washington, D.C., primary care availability is a more complex issue. While certain areas may boast ample resources, other communities, particularly those with lower socioeconomic status, might face significant shortages. The “Hypertension Score” must account for these disparities, considering the distribution of primary care physicians across the city. This includes analyzing the number of primary care physicians per 10,000 residents in various neighborhoods, comparing this to national averages, and identifying areas with the greatest need.

**Quality of Care and Standout Practices**

Beyond mere accessibility, the quality of care is paramount. The “Hypertension Score” will assess the performance of primary care practices and hospitals in managing hypertension. This involves looking at metrics such as the percentage of patients with controlled blood pressure, the use of evidence-based guidelines for hypertension treatment, and the frequency of follow-up appointments.

Standout practices within 20037 and Washington, D.C., will be identified based on their demonstrated excellence in hypertension management. This includes practices that have adopted innovative approaches, such as patient-centered care models, proactive outreach programs, and robust patient education initiatives. Hospitals and clinics with strong hypertension management programs will also be highlighted. Data from organizations like the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), which offers accreditation for patient-centered medical homes, and the American Heart Association (AHA), which recognizes hospitals for their cardiovascular care, will be leveraged to identify top performers.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact**

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool for improving hypertension management, particularly in areas with limited access to care. The “Hypertension Score” will assess the adoption of telemedicine services by primary care practices within 20037 and across Washington, D.C. This includes evaluating the availability of virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and online patient portals.

Practices that have embraced telemedicine can potentially extend their reach, providing care to patients who may face barriers to in-person visits, such as transportation challenges or mobility limitations. Telemedicine also facilitates more frequent monitoring of blood pressure and allows for timely adjustments to medication regimens, contributing to improved hypertension control. The analysis will explore the impact of telemedicine on patient outcomes, including blood pressure control rates and patient satisfaction.

**Mental Health Resources and their Role**

The link between mental health and hypertension is increasingly recognized. Chronic stress and anxiety can contribute to elevated blood pressure, making mental health support an essential component of comprehensive hypertension management. The “Hypertension Score” will evaluate the availability of mental health resources within 20037 and Washington, D.C., including access to therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups.

The analysis will consider the integration of mental health services into primary care practices, such as the availability of on-site mental health professionals or partnerships with mental health providers. The availability of resources to address social determinants of health, such as access to healthy food and safe housing, will also be considered, as these factors can significantly impact mental well-being and blood pressure control.

**Data Sources and Methodology**

The “Hypertension Score” will be developed using a combination of publicly available data, including information from the CMS, the District of Columbia Department of Health, and the U.S. Census Bureau. Data from healthcare organizations, such as the NCQA and the AHA, will be incorporated to assess the quality of care and identify standout practices. Surveys of primary care physicians and patients may be conducted to gather additional insights. The methodology will involve assigning weights to different factors based on their relative importance in hypertension management.

**Conclusion and Call to Action**

This “Hypertension Score” analysis provides a valuable framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of hypertension management within ZIP Code 20037 and the broader Washington, D.C., area. By assessing physician accessibility, quality of care, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, the analysis offers a comprehensive perspective on the healthcare landscape.

To visualize these findings and gain deeper insights into the geographic distribution of hypertension management resources, we encourage you to explore the power of geospatial analysis. **Visit CartoChrome maps to unlock interactive visualizations and uncover the spatial patterns that shape hypertension care in Washington, D.C.**