02119, Roxbury, Massachusetts Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 02119, Roxbury, Massachusetts is 99 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.44 percent of the residents in 02119 has some form of health insurance. 53.04 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 47.72 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 02119 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,251 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 64 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02119. An estimate of 29 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,002 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 11,621 health care providers accessible to residents in 02119, Roxbury, Massachusetts.

The following analysis assesses hypertension management capabilities within ZIP code 02119, focusing on primary care availability in Roxbury, Massachusetts. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the resources available to patients, evaluating factors critical for effective hypertension control. This analysis does not endorse any specific physician or practice but aims to highlight key aspects relevant to patient care.

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a significant public health concern, often asymptomatic yet leading to serious health complications. Effective management necessitates consistent access to primary care physicians, timely diagnosis, appropriate medication, lifestyle counseling, and ongoing monitoring. The availability of these resources within a specific geographic area, like Roxbury (ZIP code 02119), is crucial in determining patient outcomes.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially compromised care. Data from publicly available sources, such as the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine and the US Census Bureau, are essential to calculate this ratio for 02119. This ratio should be compared to the state and national averages to gauge the relative accessibility of primary care physicians in Roxbury. Areas with significantly lower ratios require focused attention to address potential access barriers.

Beyond sheer numbers, the distribution of physicians within the ZIP code is also important. Are physicians concentrated in specific areas, leaving other parts of Roxbury underserved? This spatial analysis can reveal health disparities within the community. Furthermore, the types of primary care practices present – solo practices, group practices, and those affiliated with larger healthcare systems – influence patient access and the range of services offered.

Standout practices often demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive hypertension management. This includes a proactive approach to screening, utilizing evidence-based guidelines for diagnosis and treatment, and employing patient education programs. Electronic health records (EHRs) are crucial for tracking patient data, facilitating medication management, and generating reminders for follow-up appointments. Practices that integrate these technologies and processes are likely to achieve better patient outcomes.

A practice’s commitment to patient education is another key indicator of quality. Providing patients with clear and concise information about hypertension, its causes, and its management empowers them to take an active role in their health. This includes education on lifestyle modifications, such as diet and exercise, and the importance of medication adherence. Practices that offer educational materials in multiple languages, reflecting the diversity of the Roxbury community, are particularly commendable.

Telemedicine adoption has gained prominence, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic. Telemedicine offers a convenient alternative for follow-up appointments, medication management, and patient education, particularly for patients with mobility issues or transportation challenges. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms, ensuring secure and accessible virtual visits, are better positioned to provide continuous care. However, it is essential to consider the digital literacy of the patient population and provide support for those who may need assistance accessing and utilizing these technologies.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to hypertension management. Stress and anxiety can contribute to elevated blood pressure, and mental health conditions often co-occur with chronic diseases. Practices that integrate mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients. This can include on-site therapists, partnerships with community mental health centers, or readily available resources for stress management and coping strategies.

The availability of ancillary services also impacts hypertension management. Access to on-site laboratory testing, such as blood pressure monitoring and blood work, streamlines the diagnostic and monitoring process. Convenient access to pharmacies for medication refills is also critical. Practices that prioritize these ancillary services contribute to a more patient-centered approach to care.

Community outreach and engagement are vital. Practices that actively participate in community health initiatives, such as health fairs or educational programs, demonstrate a commitment to improving the overall health of the Roxbury community. This outreach can help raise awareness about hypertension, promote early detection, and connect residents with available resources.

Evaluating the cost of care is an essential consideration. The affordability of healthcare services, including physician visits, medications, and diagnostic tests, significantly impacts patient access and adherence to treatment plans. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans and offer financial assistance programs are more likely to serve a diverse patient population. Transparency in pricing and billing practices is also crucial.

In conclusion, assessing hypertension management capabilities in 02119 requires a multifaceted approach. Physician-to-patient ratios, the distribution of physicians, the adoption of technology, integration of mental health services, patient education initiatives, and cost of care are all crucial factors. Practices that excel in these areas are better positioned to provide effective and comprehensive hypertension care. The quality of care is not solely determined by the number of physicians but also by the integration of technology, the availability of mental health resources, and the practices’ commitment to patient education and community outreach.

For a visual representation of primary care physician locations, patient demographics, and related healthcare data within ZIP code 02119, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping tools that can help you visualize the spatial distribution of healthcare resources, identify potential access barriers, and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Roxbury.