01222, Ashley Falls, Massachusetts Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 01222, Ashley Falls, Massachusetts is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.82 percent of the residents in 01222 has some form of health insurance. 57.16 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.69 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 01222 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 172 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 01222. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 113 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 128 health care providers accessible to residents in 01222, Ashley Falls, Massachusetts.

**Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 01222 and Primary Care Availability in Ashley Falls**

Analyzing healthcare access within a specific geographic area, like ZIP Code 01222 and the town of Ashley Falls, requires a multi-faceted approach. A "Hypertension Score" isn't a standardized metric, but we can construct an analysis that considers factors influencing hypertension management, primary care availability, and overall healthcare accessibility. This analysis will examine the landscape of healthcare providers, patient-to-physician ratios, innovative practices, and support systems.

The initial step involves identifying all primary care physicians (PCPs) practicing within ZIP Code 01222 and those serving Ashley Falls. Publicly available databases, insurance provider directories, and local healthcare networks can be used for this. The number of PCPs is the foundation. The analysis also considers the specialties offered by these physicians. Do they have expertise in cardiology, endocrinology, or nephrology, which are crucial for managing hypertension?

Next, we consider the patient-to-physician ratio. This is a crucial indicator of access. A high ratio indicates that each physician is responsible for a large number of patients, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced time spent with each patient. Data on the population of 01222 and Ashley Falls is essential to calculate this ratio accurately. Comparing this ratio to state or national averages provides context.

Once the provider landscape is established, we can evaluate the practices themselves. Are the practices accepting new patients? This is a basic but essential factor. Are they equipped with the latest diagnostic tools, such as ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) devices, which are vital for accurate diagnosis and monitoring of hypertension? The presence of electronic health records (EHRs) is another key consideration. EHRs streamline patient data, allowing for better coordination of care and easier access to patient history for all providers.

A crucial element of this analysis is the adoption of telemedicine. Telemedicine has become increasingly important, especially for managing chronic conditions like hypertension. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and online patient portals are demonstrating a commitment to patient convenience and proactive care. Telemedicine can improve patient adherence to treatment plans and facilitate more frequent check-ins, which is especially important for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations.

Mental health is inextricably linked to hypertension management. Stress and anxiety can significantly impact blood pressure. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through referrals is a critical factor. Does the practice have integrated behavioral health services? Do they have established relationships with local mental health providers? This integration can improve patient outcomes by addressing the holistic needs of individuals with hypertension.

The analysis also considers the affordability of care. Does the practice accept a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid? What is the practice's policy on financial assistance for patients who are uninsured or underinsured? Understanding the financial barriers to care is crucial for assessing overall accessibility.

Identifying standout practices is also part of the analysis. This could involve recognizing practices that have demonstrated excellence in hypertension management, perhaps through patient outcomes data, patient satisfaction surveys, or recognition from professional organizations. These practices can serve as models for other providers in the area.

The unique characteristics of Ashley Falls, as a rural community, must be considered. Transportation challenges, limited public transportation, and the potential for a higher proportion of elderly residents can all impact access to care. The analysis should assess how the available healthcare providers address these challenges. Do they offer transportation assistance? Are they accessible to patients with disabilities?

The analysis also considers the availability of educational resources for patients. Do practices provide educational materials on hypertension management, including diet, exercise, and medication adherence? Are there support groups or other community resources available to help patients manage their condition? Patient education is essential for empowering individuals to take an active role in their own health.

The analysis also considers the community resources that support hypertension management. This includes pharmacies, nutritionists, and fitness centers. Proximity to these resources can make a significant difference in a patient's ability to manage their condition effectively.

The ultimate goal of this analysis is to provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape for hypertension management in 01222 and Ashley Falls. It is not just about the number of doctors; it is about the quality of care, the accessibility of services, and the support systems that are in place to help patients manage their condition effectively. This analysis should provide valuable insights for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers alike.

For those seeking to visualize this data and gain deeper insights into healthcare access and hypertension management in 01222 and Ashley Falls, consider exploring interactive maps. CartoChrome offers powerful mapping and visualization tools that can transform complex healthcare data into easily understandable visual representations. Use CartoChrome to map physician locations, patient-to-physician ratios, and the availability of key resources. This will help you identify areas with the greatest need and understand the factors influencing healthcare access in the region.