02170, Quincy, Massachusetts Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 02170, Quincy, Massachusetts is 99 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.95 percent of the residents in 02170 has some form of health insurance. 35.74 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.94 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 02170 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,037 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 17 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02170. An estimate of 9 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,337 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,499 health care providers accessible to residents in 02170, Quincy, Massachusetts.

The analysis focuses on hypertension management within the 02170 ZIP code, a key area of Quincy, Massachusetts, and examines the availability of primary care, essential for effective hypertension control. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape, evaluating factors influencing patient outcomes. The analysis will not include lists or bullet points.

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a significant public health concern, increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure. Effective management requires a multi-faceted approach, including lifestyle modifications, medication adherence, and regular monitoring. Primary care physicians are at the forefront of this effort, serving as the initial point of contact for patients and coordinating their care.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of access to care. In Quincy, like many urban areas, the ratio can vary considerably. Areas with a higher concentration of physicians often offer better access, leading to more frequent check-ups and opportunities for early intervention. Conversely, areas with fewer physicians may experience longer wait times for appointments and reduced opportunities for preventative care. Public health data, including information from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, is crucial to understanding the precise physician-to-patient ratio within 02170 and its impact on hypertension management.

Primary care availability is not solely determined by the number of physicians. The types of practices, their acceptance of new patients, and their hours of operation also play a significant role. Practices that offer extended hours or weekend appointments can improve access for patients with busy schedules. Practices that are accepting new patients ensure that individuals can establish care with a primary care physician, a vital step in hypertension management.

Standout practices within the 02170 ZIP code, demonstrating excellence in hypertension management, likely exhibit several key characteristics. These may include a focus on patient education, providing resources on lifestyle modifications, and promoting medication adherence. They could also have robust systems for monitoring patient blood pressure, offering regular follow-up appointments, and proactively addressing any concerns. Furthermore, practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively can streamline care, allowing for better coordination among healthcare providers and improved patient outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare services remotely, has the potential to improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in areas with limited access to healthcare facilities. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and online patient portals can enhance patient convenience and improve adherence to treatment plans. Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for hypertension management, allowing physicians to monitor patients' blood pressure remotely and adjust medications as needed.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in the context of hypertension management, but they are essential. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure levels and treatment adherence. Primary care practices that integrate mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals can provide more comprehensive care. This integrated approach can help patients address underlying mental health issues that may be contributing to their hypertension, leading to better outcomes.

The presence of specialized hypertension clinics or programs within the 02170 ZIP code is another factor that can influence the quality of care. These clinics often have a team of specialists, including cardiologists, nephrologists, and nurses, who are dedicated to managing hypertension. They may offer advanced diagnostic testing, specialized treatment options, and comprehensive patient education programs. The availability of such resources can significantly improve the outcomes for patients with complex or difficult-to-control hypertension.

Community health initiatives also play a vital role. Public health programs that promote healthy lifestyles, such as exercise programs and healthy eating initiatives, can help prevent hypertension and improve overall cardiovascular health. Partnerships between healthcare providers and community organizations can extend the reach of these programs and ensure that they are accessible to all residents.

Evaluating the quality of hypertension management requires a comprehensive assessment. It involves examining physician-to-patient ratios, primary care availability, the characteristics of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the presence of specialized clinics and community initiatives. Each of these factors contributes to the overall quality of care and the ability of patients to effectively manage their hypertension.

To visualize and further explore the healthcare landscape of Quincy, Massachusetts, including the distribution of physicians, the location of primary care practices, and the availability of resources for hypertension management, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps provide a visual representation of healthcare data, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of the local healthcare environment.