01354, Gill, Massachusetts Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 01354, Gill, Massachusetts is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.19 percent of the residents in 01354 has some form of health insurance. 31.56 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 80.44 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 01354 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 250 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 01354. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 324 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 119 health care providers accessible to residents in 01354, Gill, Massachusetts.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 01354 & Primary Care in Gill

This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of healthcare accessibility and quality within ZIP code 01354 (Northfield, Massachusetts) and its surrounding primary care landscape, specifically focusing on the town of Gill. The primary objective is to assess the availability and quality of care for individuals managing hypertension, a significant public health concern. We will evaluate physician-to-patient ratios, highlight notable practices, examine telemedicine adoption, and assess the availability of mental health resources, all crucial factors influencing hypertension management.

The foundation of effective hypertension management rests on accessible primary care. ZIP code 01354, a predominantly rural area, faces inherent challenges in healthcare access. Analyzing physician-to-patient ratios is critical. A low ratio indicates a higher likelihood of appointments, preventative care, and consistent follow-up – all essential for hypertension control. Data on physician density within 01354, alongside information on the patient population, is necessary to calculate this ratio. However, it's important to consider that residents may seek care outside their immediate ZIP code, potentially impacting the perceived availability of care.

Primary care availability in Gill, a neighboring town, further influences the healthcare landscape for residents of 01354. Evaluating the number of primary care physicians, including family medicine and internal medicine specialists, practicing in Gill is vital. Assessing the capacity of these practices to accept new patients is equally important. Long wait times for appointments can hinder timely diagnosis and treatment, negatively impacting hypertension management. Furthermore, the geographic proximity of Gill to 01354 means residents of both areas often share healthcare resources.

Identifying standout practices within and around 01354 is essential. These practices often demonstrate best practices in hypertension management. Factors to consider include the use of evidence-based guidelines, patient education programs, and comprehensive monitoring protocols. Practices utilizing electronic health records (EHRs) can streamline data management, facilitate communication, and improve care coordination. Some practices might employ specialized nurses or healthcare professionals dedicated to hypertension management, offering tailored support and education to patients.

Telemedicine adoption plays a crucial role in improving healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to connect with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving adherence to treatment plans. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption among primary care practices in 01354 and Gill is essential. This includes evaluating the types of telemedicine services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), the availability of necessary technology (e.g., secure video platforms), and patient satisfaction with these services. Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for hypertension management, allowing for regular blood pressure monitoring and medication adjustments without frequent in-person visits.

The interconnectedness of physical and mental health is undeniable, especially in managing chronic conditions like hypertension. Mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression, can significantly impact blood pressure control. Therefore, evaluating the availability of mental health resources within the 01354 area and in Gill is critical. This includes assessing the number of mental health professionals (e.g., psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists), the types of services offered (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), and the accessibility of these services (e.g., insurance acceptance, wait times). Integration of mental health services within primary care practices can improve patient outcomes.

Data on insurance coverage is also a key factor. The percentage of the population with health insurance coverage directly impacts access to care. Uninsured individuals may delay or forgo necessary medical care, including hypertension management, due to cost concerns. Analyzing the types of insurance accepted by primary care practices in 01354 and Gill, including Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance plans, is important. Identifying practices that offer sliding-scale fees or financial assistance programs can also improve access to care for low-income individuals.

Furthermore, the availability of specialized services, such as cardiology and endocrinology, is a consideration. While primary care physicians are often the first point of contact for hypertension management, patients with complex cases or uncontrolled hypertension may require referral to specialists. Evaluating the availability of these specialists within a reasonable distance from 01354 and Gill is essential. This includes assessing wait times for specialist appointments and the ease with which primary care physicians can refer patients to these specialists.

The analysis also considers the availability of resources for patient education and self-management. Patient education is a cornerstone of effective hypertension management. Assessing the availability of educational materials, such as brochures, online resources, and group classes, is important. Practices that actively engage patients in their care, providing them with the knowledge and tools to manage their condition, are more likely to achieve positive outcomes. This includes teaching patients about lifestyle modifications, such as diet and exercise, as well as medication adherence.

Finally, community resources are vital. Community health centers, pharmacies, and local health initiatives can play a crucial role in supporting hypertension management. Analyzing the presence and accessibility of these resources within 01354 and Gill is necessary. This includes assessing the availability of free or low-cost blood pressure screenings, medication assistance programs, and support groups. Collaboration between healthcare providers and community organizations can enhance the overall quality of care.

In conclusion, a comprehensive assessment of hypertension management in 01354 and the surrounding area of Gill requires a multifaceted approach. Analyzing physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and evaluating mental health resources are all crucial components. This analysis, incorporating available data, will provide a clear picture of healthcare accessibility and quality, ultimately contributing to improved hypertension control within the community.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in 01354 and surrounding areas, including the location of primary care practices, specialists, and community resources, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment.