02717, East Freetown, Massachusetts Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 02717, East Freetown, Massachusetts is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.85 percent of the residents in 02717 has some form of health insurance. 33.17 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 85.11 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 02717 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 921 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02717. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 926 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,729 health care providers accessible to residents in 02717, East Freetown, Massachusetts.

**Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 02717 & Primary Care Availability in East Freetown**

Analyzing the landscape of healthcare, particularly concerning hypertension management, within ZIP code 02717 (East Freetown, Massachusetts) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis examines the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs), assesses their practices, and evaluates the resources available to patients, specifically focusing on hypertension. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" reflecting the quality and accessibility of care.

The foundation of hypertension management rests upon accessible primary care. The physician-to-patient ratio within 02717 is a critical starting point. While precise figures fluctuate, a general assessment of the area reveals a potential challenge. Rural or semi-rural areas often face shortages compared to more urban centers. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with physicians, and a potential for delayed diagnoses or inadequate follow-up care. The "Hypertension Score" will reflect this, with lower scores assigned to areas with higher patient-to-physician ratios. Publicly available data, such as that from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), will be consulted to provide the most current estimates.

Beyond raw numbers, the characteristics of the primary care practices are crucial. The "Hypertension Score" will consider factors such as the availability of on-site diagnostic tools (e.g., 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure monitoring), the use of electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient data management and communication, and the implementation of evidence-based guidelines for hypertension treatment. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, such as those promoted by the American Heart Association or the American College of Cardiology, will receive higher scores. The presence of certified diabetes educators (CDEs) or registered dietitians (RDs) within the practice or readily available through referral is also a positive factor, given the frequent comorbidity of hypertension and diabetes.

Telemedicine adoption is another key element. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the use of telehealth, and its continued integration is vital for hypertension management. Practices offering virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and patient education programs will receive higher scores. Telemedicine can improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in geographically isolated areas. The "Hypertension Score" will evaluate the extent to which practices leverage telehealth platforms to enhance patient care and adherence to treatment plans.

Mental health resources are intrinsically linked to hypertension management. Stress and anxiety can significantly impact blood pressure, and addressing these factors is crucial for overall health. The "Hypertension Score" will assess the availability of mental health services, either within the primary care practice or through readily accessible referral networks. Practices that screen for mental health conditions, offer counseling services, or collaborate with mental health professionals will be viewed favorably. This holistic approach recognizes the interconnectedness of physical and mental well-being.

Standout practices within 02717 will be identified based on a combination of factors. These practices will likely demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, employing a team-based approach that includes nurses, medical assistants, and other healthcare professionals. They will prioritize patient education, providing resources and support to help patients understand their condition and manage their medications and lifestyle factors. They will also actively engage in continuous quality improvement, monitoring their performance and making adjustments to optimize patient outcomes.

The "Hypertension Score" will be calculated using a weighted system, assigning points based on the factors discussed above. Physician-to-patient ratio, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources will each contribute to the overall score. The final score will provide a comprehensive assessment of the quality and accessibility of hypertension care within 02717.

This analysis will also consider the availability of specialty care. While primary care is the cornerstone of hypertension management, access to specialists, such as cardiologists and nephrologists, is important for patients with complex cases or uncontrolled hypertension. The "Hypertension Score" will factor in the proximity of specialty care providers and the ease with which patients can access these services.

Furthermore, the analysis will evaluate the availability of community resources. Support groups, educational programs offered by local hospitals or health organizations, and access to affordable medications are all crucial components of effective hypertension management. The "Hypertension Score" will consider the availability of these resources and their accessibility to patients within 02717.

The "Hypertension Score" is not just a numerical value; it is a reflection of the overall healthcare ecosystem within East Freetown. It highlights areas of strength and identifies areas where improvements are needed. By providing a comprehensive assessment, this analysis aims to empower patients to make informed decisions about their healthcare and to encourage healthcare providers to continuously strive for excellence in hypertension management.

In conclusion, understanding the nuances of healthcare availability, particularly for a chronic condition like hypertension, requires a detailed examination of multiple factors. This analysis provides a framework for evaluating the quality and accessibility of care in 02717, offering insights into physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and community support. This "Hypertension Score" analysis aims to be a valuable resource for both patients and providers.

To visualize and further explore the healthcare landscape in 02717 and surrounding areas, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and resource availability, we encourage you to utilize CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide interactive visualizations, allowing you to explore the data in a dynamic and user-friendly way.