Hypertension Score

02155, Medford, Massachusetts Hypertension Score People Score

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Health Scores

People Score in 02155, Medford, Massachusetts

The People Score for the Hypertension Score in 02155, Medford, Massachusetts is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.70 percent of the residents in 02155 has some form of health insurance. 26.90 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.31 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 02155 would have to travel an average of 2.73 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Cambridge Health Alliance. In a 20-mile radius, there are 11,904 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 02155, Medford, Massachusetts.

Health Scores in 02155, Medford, Massachusetts

Hypertension Score 78
People Score 18
Provider Score 99
Hospital Score 49
Travel Score 69

Insurance Types

02155 Medford Massachusetts
Employer Insurance 68.93 68.93 62.38
Direct Purchase Insurance 15.30 15.30 13.94
Medicare 14.07 14.07 17.14
Medicaid 15.21 15.21 22.29
TRICARE 1.06 1.06 1.10
VA 52.10 52.10 52.01

Percent Insured in 02155, Medford, Massachusetts

Residents who need health insurance can purchase insurance at The U.S. government healthcare website.

Insurance Rate by Age

02155 Medford Massachusetts
Under 19 96.27 96.27 98.49
Adults (19-64 years) 95.92 95.92 96.16
Seniors (65+ years) 99.71 99.71 99.61

People Score Review of 02155, Medford, Massachusetts

## The Pulse of 02155: Unveiling the Hypertension Score and the Heart of Medford

The crisp air of Medford, Massachusetts, carries with it the scent of history, the rustle of leaves in the Middlesex Fells Reservation, and the subtle, persistent hum of a community striving for well-being. But beneath the surface of charming streets and vibrant neighborhoods lies a silent adversary: hypertension. This article dives deep into the heart of 02155, exploring its community health landscape, dissecting the factors that contribute to a potential "Hypertension Score," and uncovering the resources and opportunities that can help residents live longer, healthier, and more energetic lives.

**The Baseline: Understanding the Hypertension Score**

Before we explore the specifics of 02155, let's understand the concept of a "Hypertension Score" in the context of community health. It’s not a single, definitive number, but rather a composite picture painted by various factors that influence blood pressure and cardiovascular health. These factors include:

* **Demographics:** Age, race/ethnicity, and socioeconomic status all play a significant role. Older populations are generally more susceptible to hypertension, as are certain racial and ethnic groups. Socioeconomic disparities can limit access to healthy food, healthcare, and safe environments for exercise.
* **Lifestyle Factors:** Diet, physical activity, smoking habits, and alcohol consumption are critical. A diet high in sodium and saturated fats, a sedentary lifestyle, and substance abuse significantly increase the risk of hypertension.
* **Access to Healthcare:** Regular checkups, screenings, and access to medication are essential for managing hypertension. Lack of access to affordable healthcare can lead to undiagnosed and untreated cases.
* **Environmental Factors:** The built environment, including access to green spaces, walkability, and the presence of pollution, can impact physical activity and overall health.
* **Social Determinants of Health:** These encompass the conditions in which people are born, grow, live, work, and age. They include factors like education, employment, social support, and access to resources.

By analyzing these factors, we can begin to assess the "Hypertension Score" of a community, identifying areas of strength and weakness, and pinpointing opportunities for intervention and improvement.

**02155: A Microcosm of Community Health**

The ZIP code 02155 encompasses a significant portion of Medford, a city nestled just north of Boston. It's a diverse community, a tapestry woven with threads of long-time residents, young families, and a growing student population, thanks to the presence of Tufts University.

**Demographics: A Snapshot of the Community**

The demographic makeup of 02155 is a key element in understanding its health profile. The population skews slightly older than the national average, with a significant proportion of residents in the 45-64 age bracket. This age group is particularly susceptible to hypertension. The racial and ethnic composition is also diverse, with a notable presence of Asian, Hispanic, and Black residents, groups that may experience disproportionately higher rates of hypertension.

**Vignette 1: The Corner Store and the Dinner Table**

Imagine a crisp autumn afternoon. The sun casts long shadows across Main Street, where the aroma of freshly baked bread mingles with the scent of exhaust from passing cars. A young mother, her arms laden with groceries, navigates the bustling sidewalk. She's juggling a demanding job, childcare, and the constant pressure to provide healthy meals for her family. The corner store, a familiar landmark, beckons with its colorful displays. But amidst the tempting snacks and processed foods, she struggles to find affordable, fresh produce. The choices she makes here, and the choices she makes at the dinner table, will have a direct impact on her family's health, and potentially, their risk of hypertension.

**Places to Live: The Built Environment and its Influence**

The types of housing and the overall built environment in 02155 also contribute to the community's health profile. The area features a mix of single-family homes, apartment buildings, and multi-family dwellings. Some neighborhoods are characterized by tree-lined streets and well-maintained parks, encouraging outdoor activity. Others, particularly those closer to major roadways, may experience higher levels of air pollution, potentially impacting cardiovascular health.

**Vignette 2: The Park and the Playground**

Picture a sunny Saturday morning at Wright's Pond, a popular recreational spot in 02155. Families are picnicking, children are laughing on the playground, and joggers are enjoying the scenic trails. The air is filled with the sounds of nature and the energy of active living. This park, and others like it, provides a vital space for physical activity and social interaction, offering a buffer against the stresses of daily life and promoting cardiovascular health. However, access to such spaces, and the safety of those spaces, can vary depending on the neighborhood.

**Healthy Lifestyle in Medford: Opportunities and Challenges**

Promoting a healthy lifestyle in 02155 requires addressing both opportunities and challenges.

**Diet and Nutrition:** Access to affordable, healthy food is crucial. This involves supporting local farmers markets, encouraging the development of grocery stores with fresh produce, and educating residents about healthy eating habits.

**Physical Activity:** Encouraging physical activity means creating safe and accessible spaces for walking, biking, and recreation. This includes investing in parks, trails, and bike lanes, and promoting community-based fitness programs.

**Smoking Cessation and Substance Abuse:** Providing resources for smoking cessation and addressing substance abuse is essential for reducing the risk of hypertension and other health problems.

**Access to Healthcare: Navigating the System**

Access to quality healthcare is paramount. This includes ensuring that residents have health insurance, promoting regular checkups and screenings, and providing access to affordable medication.

**Vignette 3: The Doctor's Office and the Community Clinic**

Imagine a visit to a local doctor's office. The waiting room is filled with a diverse group of patients, each with their own story. The doctor, a dedicated professional, is committed to providing personalized care, including blood pressure screenings and lifestyle counseling. Beyond the doctor's office, community clinics and health centers play a vital role in providing accessible and affordable healthcare to all residents, particularly those who may face barriers to accessing traditional medical care.

**Local Wellness Programs: A Network of Support**

02155 boasts a network of local wellness programs and initiatives that are actively working to improve community health. These include:

* **Community Centers:** Offering fitness classes, health education workshops, and social support groups.
* **Parks and Recreation Departments:** Organizing outdoor activities, such as walking clubs, yoga in the park, and sports leagues.
* **Local Hospitals and Healthcare Providers:** Providing health screenings, educational materials, and access to specialized care.
* **Tufts University:** Engaging in community outreach programs, research initiatives, and student-led health initiatives.

**Vignette 4: The Community Garden and the Shared Harvest**

Picture a vibrant community garden, a patch of green amidst the urban landscape. Residents of all ages and backgrounds are tending to their plots, planting seeds, and nurturing the soil. This garden is more than just a place to grow food; it's a place to connect with nature, learn about healthy eating, and build community. The shared harvest, a bounty of fresh produce, is a testament to the power of collective action and the pursuit of a healthier lifestyle.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: Social Connections and Well-being**

The "neighborhood vibe" of 02155 plays a crucial role in community health. Strong social connections, a sense of belonging, and a supportive environment can buffer against the stresses of daily life and promote overall well-being.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing in the Fresh Air**

The presence of the Middlesex Fells Reservation, a vast expanse of forests and trails, is a significant asset for 02155. This natural oasis provides ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, biking, and running, all of which can contribute to cardiovascular health.

**Vignette 5: The Trails and the Tranquility**

Imagine yourself hiking through the Middlesex Fells Reservation. The air is crisp and clean, the sounds of the city fade away, and the only sounds are the rustling of leaves and the chirping of birds. The trails, winding through forests and over rocky terrain, offer a challenging and rewarding workout. This connection with nature, this opportunity to escape the pressures of modern life, is a valuable resource for the residents of 02155, helping them to manage stress, improve their physical health, and connect with the natural world.

**Moving Forward: Strengthening the Heart of 02155**

Assessing the "Hypertension Score" of 02155 requires a comprehensive, data-driven approach. This article provides a starting point, highlighting the key factors that influence cardiovascular health in this vibrant community. To truly improve the health of its residents, 02155 must:

* **Collect and Analyze Data:** Gather data on demographics, lifestyle factors, access to healthcare, and environmental conditions.
* **Collaborate and Partner:** Foster collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, local government, and residents.
* **Implement Targeted Interventions:** Develop and implement evidence-based programs and initiatives that address the specific needs of the community.
* **Promote Health Equity:** Ensure that all residents have equal access to resources and opportunities for health and well-being.
* **Empower Residents:** Engage residents in the process, empowering them to take ownership of their health and the health of their community.

By working together, the residents of 02155 can strengthen their community's heart, reduce the burden of hypertension, and create a healthier, more vibrant future for all. The pulse of 02155 is strong, and with continued effort, it can beat even stronger, a testament to the resilience and the commitment of its people.

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