02534, Cataumet, Massachusetts Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 02534, Cataumet, Massachusetts is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.89 percent of the residents in 02534 has some form of health insurance. 51.73 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.95 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 02534 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 190 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02534. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 366 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 713 health care providers accessible to residents in 02534, Cataumet, Massachusetts.

The analysis will focus on the quality of hypertension management within the Cataumet (ZIP Code 02534) area, specifically evaluating the availability and performance of primary care physicians. This assessment will consider various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial components in effective hypertension control.

Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio in Cataumet is the first step. This metric provides a baseline understanding of the accessibility of primary care. A high ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can potentially lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and ultimately, compromised care, particularly for chronic conditions like hypertension. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater accessibility, which can facilitate more frequent check-ups, medication adjustments, and patient education, all essential for effective hypertension management. Data from reputable sources, such as the Massachusetts Department of Public Health and the American Medical Association, would be necessary to accurately determine the physician-to-patient ratio within the specific geographic boundaries of 02534. This data would then be compared to regional and national averages to determine Cataumet's relative standing.

Identifying standout practices within Cataumet requires a multifaceted approach. This involves analyzing patient reviews, examining the use of evidence-based guidelines, and assessing the integration of technology. Practices excelling in hypertension management often demonstrate a commitment to the latest clinical guidelines from organizations like the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology. They actively monitor patient blood pressure, provide personalized treatment plans, and regularly adjust medication dosages as needed. Furthermore, these practices frequently employ patient education programs, empowering individuals to take an active role in managing their condition. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) is another key indicator. EHRs facilitate efficient data management, allowing physicians to track patient progress, identify trends, and make informed decisions.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. Telemedicine offers significant advantages in hypertension management, particularly in a geographically dispersed area like Cataumet. Virtual consultations can reduce the need for in-person visits, making it easier for patients to access care, especially those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Telemedicine also allows for remote blood pressure monitoring, enabling physicians to track patient readings and adjust medications remotely, optimizing blood pressure control. The extent of telemedicine adoption among primary care practices in Cataumet can be evaluated by examining their websites, inquiring directly, and reviewing patient feedback. Practices that have embraced telemedicine often report improved patient engagement and adherence to treatment plans.

The integration of mental health resources is also essential. Hypertension is frequently linked to stress and anxiety, which can exacerbate the condition and hinder treatment adherence. Primary care practices that recognize this connection and provide access to mental health services, either through in-house therapists or referrals to external providers, are better equipped to provide comprehensive care. This integrated approach addresses the psychological factors that can significantly impact a patient's ability to manage their hypertension effectively. Assessing the availability of mental health resources involves investigating the practices' referral networks, reviewing their patient education materials, and assessing the overall approach to patient well-being.

Evaluating the performance of individual practices in Cataumet requires analyzing various metrics. These include the percentage of patients whose blood pressure is under control, the rate of medication adherence, and the frequency of follow-up appointments. Data on these metrics can be obtained from patient surveys, EHR data, and practice audits. Practices with consistently high performance in these areas are likely to be providing superior hypertension management. This evaluation should also consider the practice's commitment to patient education, including providing information on lifestyle modifications, such as diet and exercise, which are crucial for blood pressure control.

The challenges faced by primary care physicians in Cataumet should also be considered. These may include staffing shortages, limited access to specialized services, and the financial constraints of operating in a rural area. Understanding these challenges is essential for developing strategies to improve hypertension management. This may involve advocating for increased funding for primary care, promoting telehealth initiatives, and supporting continuing medical education for physicians.

In conclusion, a comprehensive assessment of hypertension management in Cataumet requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and examining the integration of mental health resources. By analyzing these factors, it is possible to determine the quality of care available to residents of 02534 and identify areas for improvement. This analysis aims to provide a snapshot of the current state of hypertension management in Cataumet, highlighting both strengths and weaknesses. The goal is to provide valuable insights for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers.

To gain a visual understanding of the geographical distribution of primary care physicians in Cataumet and surrounding areas, along with the availability of various healthcare resources, consider exploring interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. Their platform allows for a detailed visualization of healthcare access, helping to identify areas with limited resources and understand the overall landscape of healthcare in the region.