01223, Becket, Massachusetts Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 01223, Becket, Massachusetts is 92 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.25 percent of the residents in 01223 has some form of health insurance. 41.80 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.98 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 01223 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 461 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 01223. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 608 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,335 health care providers accessible to residents in 01223, Becket, Massachusetts.

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a significant public health concern, and effective management is crucial for preventing serious complications. This analysis assesses the quality of hypertension care in the ZIP code 01223 (focusing on doctors within that area) and the availability of primary care services in the town of Becket, Massachusetts. The goal is to provide a ‘Hypertension Score’ analysis, considering various factors that contribute to successful patient outcomes.

The assessment focuses on the overall landscape of hypertension care. It is not a formal ranking system, but rather an evaluation of key indicators.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Access to Care**

One of the foundational elements of effective hypertension management is access to primary care physicians. The ratio of physicians to the population in the 01223 ZIP code is a critical factor. A higher ratio generally indicates better access to care, allowing patients to schedule appointments more readily and receive timely interventions. Conversely, a lower ratio can create bottlenecks, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment.

The availability of primary care in Becket, though not directly within the 01223 ZIP code, is important. Residents of Becket may seek care in neighboring areas, including 01223. The presence of primary care providers in Becket and the surrounding region influences the overall access to healthcare. Long wait times for appointments, a scarcity of accepting new patients, or limited office hours can negatively affect the ability of individuals to receive prompt medical attention.

**Standout Practices and Quality of Care**

Identifying practices that demonstrate exceptional hypertension management is essential. This involves assessing various quality metrics. The percentage of patients diagnosed with hypertension who are consistently monitored, the rate of patients achieving blood pressure control, and the utilization of evidence-based treatment guidelines are key. Practices that prioritize patient education, provide readily available resources, and implement effective follow-up strategies are more likely to achieve positive outcomes.

The use of electronic health records (EHRs) is another critical factor. EHRs facilitate better data management, allowing physicians to track patient progress, identify trends, and tailor treatment plans more effectively. Practices that leverage EHRs to their full potential often demonstrate improved patient outcomes.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact**

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in hypertension management. It allows patients to connect with their physicians remotely, enabling virtual consultations, medication management, and remote blood pressure monitoring. The adoption of telemedicine by practices in 01223 and serving Becket residents is a significant indicator of accessibility and patient convenience.

Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for patients with mobility limitations, those living in rural areas, or those who find it challenging to attend in-person appointments. Practices that embrace telemedicine can improve patient engagement and adherence to treatment plans.

**Mental Health Resources and Integration**

The connection between mental health and hypertension is well-established. Stress, anxiety, and depression can contribute to elevated blood pressure. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources and the integration of mental healthcare into primary care practices are vital aspects of comprehensive hypertension management.

Practices that offer on-site mental health services or have established referral networks with mental health professionals are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients. This integrated approach can lead to improved blood pressure control and overall well-being.

**Hypertension Score Considerations**

The ‘Hypertension Score’ is a composite evaluation. It takes into account the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of care provided by individual practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. A higher score suggests a more favorable environment for hypertension management, while a lower score indicates areas that may need improvement.

The score is a relative measure, reflecting the performance of practices and the healthcare landscape within the specified geographic area. It is not a definitive ranking, but rather a tool for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system.

**Data Sources and Methodology**

The analysis relies on publicly available data, including information from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine, and other relevant sources. Data regarding physician demographics, practice locations, and patient outcomes are collected and analyzed.

The assessment also considers patient reviews and feedback, which provide valuable insights into the patient experience. The methodology involves a combination of quantitative and qualitative analysis to provide a comprehensive evaluation.

**Areas for Improvement**

Based on the analysis, areas for improvement may include increasing the physician-to-patient ratio, encouraging greater telemedicine adoption, and enhancing the integration of mental health services. Practices can also improve their quality of care by implementing evidence-based treatment guidelines, providing patient education, and improving follow-up strategies.

**Conclusion**

Effective hypertension management requires a multifaceted approach, encompassing access to care, quality of treatment, and the integration of mental health services. The ‘Hypertension Score’ analysis provides a framework for evaluating the current state of hypertension care in the 01223 ZIP code and the availability of primary care in Becket. This assessment can assist healthcare providers, policymakers, and patients in identifying areas for improvement and promoting better outcomes.

For a more detailed visualization of the healthcare landscape in the 01223 ZIP code and the surrounding areas, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and patient demographics, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps available through CartoChrome. CartoChrome provides a powerful platform for visualizing and analyzing healthcare data, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of the local healthcare environment.