02535, Chilmark, Massachusetts Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 02535, Chilmark, Massachusetts is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.30 percent of the residents in 02535 has some form of health insurance. 41.38 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.34 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 02535 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 337 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02535. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 668 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 309 health care providers accessible to residents in 02535, Chilmark, Massachusetts.

**Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 02535 & Primary Care Availability in Chilmark**

Analyzing the healthcare landscape within ZIP code 02535, encompassing Chilmark, Massachusetts, necessitates a multifaceted approach. A 'Hypertension Score' analysis, in this context, evaluates the accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of primary care services, specifically concerning hypertension management. This analysis considers factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of innovative technologies like telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources – all crucial for effective and holistic hypertension care.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Chilmark presents a significant challenge. Due to the town's small population and rural nature, the number of primary care physicians available is inherently limited. This scarcity can translate to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment initiation for individuals with hypertension. The geographical isolation further exacerbates this issue, making access to specialized care and ancillary services, such as diagnostic imaging, more difficult.

Within this constrained environment, identifying standout practices is paramount. While specific names are omitted for privacy, practices demonstrating a commitment to patient-centered care and proactive hypertension management warrant recognition. These practices often prioritize preventative care, offering regular screenings and patient education programs. They may also employ dedicated nurses or medical assistants to monitor patients' blood pressure, provide medication management support, and address lifestyle modifications, such as dietary changes and exercise recommendations.

Telemedicine adoption emerges as a critical factor in improving healthcare access in Chilmark. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, remotely monitor blood pressure, and provide medication refills can significantly reduce the burden of travel for patients, especially those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and improved adherence to treatment plans. The effective use of patient portals for communication and data sharing further enhances the efficiency and effectiveness of care delivery.

The integration of mental health resources is another critical element of a comprehensive hypertension management strategy. Chronic stress and mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression, can significantly impact blood pressure levels. 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 address the holistic needs of their patients. This integrated approach can lead to improved patient outcomes and overall well-being.

The 'Hypertension Score' analysis also considers the availability of resources for patient education and self-management. Practices that provide patients with educational materials, such as brochures, pamphlets, and online resources, empower them to take an active role in managing their condition. Support groups, both in-person and virtual, can provide a valuable platform for patients to share experiences, learn from each other, and receive emotional support.

Furthermore, the analysis evaluates the practice's commitment to evidence-based medicine and adherence to national guidelines for hypertension management. This includes the use of standardized protocols for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. Practices that regularly review their performance metrics and make adjustments to their practices based on data and patient feedback demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement.

The availability of after-hours care and emergency services is also a crucial consideration. Given the geographical isolation of Chilmark, patients need access to prompt medical attention when needed. Practices that offer extended hours, on-call services, or partnerships with urgent care facilities improve access to care and reduce the risk of adverse outcomes.

In conclusion, assessing the 'Hypertension Score' for doctors in ZIP code 02535 and primary care availability in Chilmark reveals both strengths and weaknesses. While the limited physician-to-patient ratio and geographical challenges pose significant hurdles, practices demonstrating a commitment to patient-centered care, telemedicine adoption, mental health integration, and patient education can achieve positive outcomes. Addressing the limitations requires a collaborative approach involving healthcare providers, community organizations, and policymakers.

The analysis also highlights the importance of data visualization in understanding the healthcare landscape. CartoChrome maps can provide a powerful tool for visualizing the distribution of healthcare resources, identifying areas with limited access, and tracking the impact of interventions. Consider exploring CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Chilmark and surrounding areas.