01366, Petersham, Massachusetts Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 01366, Petersham, Massachusetts is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.86 percent of the residents in 01366 has some form of health insurance. 41.54 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 77.13 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 01366 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 161 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 01366. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 308 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 71 health care providers accessible to residents in 01366, Petersham, Massachusetts.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Petersham, MA (ZIP Code 01366)

Analyzing hypertension management within Petersham, Massachusetts (ZIP code 01366) requires a multi-faceted approach, considering both the availability and quality of primary care services. This analysis will attempt to provide a 'Hypertension Score' perspective, evaluating key factors impacting patient care, from physician-to-patient ratios to the integration of telemedicine and mental health resources. The aim is to paint a realistic picture of the landscape, offering insights into potential strengths and weaknesses within the community.

The foundation of hypertension management rests upon the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). A low physician-to-patient ratio can severely limit access to preventative care, regular check-ups, and timely interventions. In Petersham, a rural community, the physician-to-patient ratio is likely a critical factor. Information on the exact ratio requires specific data from sources like the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine and the U.S. Census Bureau. A high ratio (fewer physicians per capita) will inherently lower the Hypertension Score. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and less frequent monitoring of blood pressure, all detrimental to effective hypertension control.

Beyond simple access, the quality of primary care is paramount. This involves assessing the practices’ adherence to evidence-based guidelines for hypertension management. Do the practices routinely screen patients for hypertension? Do they employ standardized protocols for diagnosis and treatment? Are they proactive in patient education regarding lifestyle modifications, such as diet and exercise? These factors significantly impact the Hypertension Score. Practices that actively promote these strategies and consistently monitor patient progress will naturally score higher.

Identifying standout practices within Petersham is crucial. This necessitates looking beyond basic metrics and considering factors like patient satisfaction, the utilization of electronic health records (EHRs), and the integration of care coordination programs. Practices that leverage EHRs effectively can streamline workflows, improve communication between providers, and facilitate data-driven decision-making. Care coordination programs, which involve nurses and other healthcare professionals, can assist in patient education, medication management, and follow-up appointments, leading to improved outcomes. Practices excelling in these areas deserve recognition and will contribute positively to the overall Hypertension Score.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical component. Rural communities often face geographical barriers to accessing healthcare. Telemedicine, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and digital health tools, can bridge this gap. Practices that embrace telemedicine can improve patient access, particularly for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. The ability to remotely monitor blood pressure readings and provide virtual follow-up appointments can also enhance patient engagement and improve adherence to treatment plans. Practices utilizing telemedicine effectively will receive a higher score.

The interconnectedness of physical and mental health is increasingly recognized. Hypertension is often exacerbated by stress, anxiety, and depression. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the community is a crucial factor in the Hypertension Score. This includes access to mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists. Ideally, primary care practices should have strong referral networks to mental health providers, or even integrate mental health services directly into their practice. The presence of community-based mental health programs and support groups further strengthens the community's ability to address the complex needs of patients with hypertension.

In addition to the factors discussed, other elements contribute to the overall Hypertension Score. These include the availability of affordable medications, access to healthy food options, and community-based health education programs. The presence of pharmacies within a reasonable distance, along with programs promoting healthy eating and physical activity, can positively influence patient outcomes.

The overall Hypertension Score for Petersham (01366) is likely influenced by the rural nature of the community. Challenges in physician availability, access to specialized services, and the potential for limited resources may negatively affect the score. However, proactive practices that prioritize evidence-based care, embrace telemedicine, and integrate mental health resources can mitigate these challenges.

To gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Petersham, and to visualize the data discussed, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can help you visualize the distribution of physicians, the location of healthcare facilities, and the availability of resources within the community.