02038, Franklin, Massachusetts Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 02038, Franklin, Massachusetts is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.74 percent of the residents in 02038 has some form of health insurance. 22.61 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 88.87 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 02038 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 8,095 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02038. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,243 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,332 health care providers accessible to residents in 02038, Franklin, Massachusetts.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Franklin, MA (ZIP Code 02038)

Analyzing the landscape of hypertension care within Franklin, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 02038) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians, assess the physician-to-patient ratio, evaluate the adoption of telemedicine, and examine the integration of mental health resources, all contributing to a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" for the area. This score, though not a singular number, represents a holistic understanding of the resources available to manage and treat hypertension within the community.

The foundation of effective hypertension management rests upon accessible primary care. Within Franklin, the availability of primary care physicians is crucial. Assessing this involves examining the number of practicing physicians within the ZIP code, considering factors like specialization (e.g., internal medicine, family practice), and evaluating the capacity of each practice to accept new patients. Practices with open appointments and a proactive approach to patient onboarding will naturally score higher in this assessment. Conversely, practices with long wait times or limited patient capacity will negatively impact the overall score.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A higher ratio, indicating more patients per physician, can strain resources and potentially limit the time each patient receives. Ideally, a lower ratio allows for more personalized care, more frequent follow-up appointments, and a greater emphasis on preventative measures, all vital in hypertension management. Data from sources like the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine, combined with local population data, can help determine this ratio within 02038.

Identifying standout practices is crucial for understanding the strengths of the local healthcare system. This involves researching practices known for their commitment to hypertension care. Practices demonstrating a strong focus on patient education, lifestyle modification counseling (diet, exercise), and medication management protocols will be highly regarded. Analyzing patient reviews, evaluating the use of electronic health records (EHRs) for tracking and managing hypertension data, and assessing the availability of support staff (e.g., nurses, dietitians) are important factors in this evaluation.

Telemedicine adoption is a growing trend in healthcare and plays a significant role in hypertension management. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and secure messaging platforms score favorably. Telemedicine can improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in remote areas. It also facilitates more frequent check-ins and allows for timely adjustments to medication or lifestyle recommendations. Practices that have fully integrated telemedicine into their workflow will contribute positively to the overall score.

The integration of mental health resources is another essential component. Hypertension is often linked to stress, anxiety, and depression. Practices that recognize this connection and offer or connect patients to mental health services (e.g., therapists, psychiatrists) are better equipped to provide comprehensive care. This integration can take many forms, including on-site mental health professionals, referrals to local mental health providers, and collaborative care models. The presence of these resources significantly enhances the quality of hypertension management within the community.

Assessing the "Hypertension Score" also requires considering the availability of resources beyond the physician's office. The proximity to pharmacies, access to affordable medications, and the availability of community-based programs (e.g., support groups, exercise classes) contribute to a supportive environment for patients. This broader ecosystem of support is essential for long-term success in managing hypertension.

Furthermore, the analysis must consider the health insurance landscape within Franklin. The accessibility of affordable health insurance, including coverage for preventative care and medications, directly impacts the ability of residents to receive necessary treatment. Practices that work with a variety of insurance providers and offer financial assistance programs for patients in need contribute positively to the overall score.

In conclusion, the "Hypertension Score" for Franklin, MA (02038) is a complex evaluation. It is not a single number but a synthesis of various factors, including primary care accessibility, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. The availability of community support programs and the affordability of health insurance also play crucial roles. By carefully analyzing these elements, a comprehensive understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of hypertension care within the community can be achieved. This understanding can then be used to identify areas for improvement and promote better health outcomes for residents.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Franklin, including the location of practices, pharmacies, and other relevant resources, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a geographically informed view of healthcare access, allowing you to visualize the factors discussed in this analysis.