02725, Somerset, Massachusetts Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 02725, Somerset, Massachusetts is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.66 percent of the residents in 02725 has some form of health insurance. 31.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 80.04 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 02725 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 440 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02725. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 430 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,087 health care providers accessible to residents in 02725, Somerset, Massachusetts.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Somerset, MA (ZIP Code 02725)

This analysis provides a detailed evaluation of primary care resources within Somerset, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 02725), focusing on factors relevant to hypertension management. The goal is to assess the accessibility and quality of care available to residents, providing insights into the community's ability to effectively manage this prevalent health condition. The assessment considers physician-to-patient ratios, notable practices, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health support, all crucial elements in comprehensive hypertension care.

The foundation of effective hypertension control rests on accessible primary care. In Somerset, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. While precise figures fluctuate, a review of available data suggests a potential challenge. The area may experience a shortage of primary care physicians compared to the overall population, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced opportunities for preventative care. This scarcity could disproportionately affect individuals with hypertension, who require regular monitoring and medication adjustments. The impact of this ratio is a significant factor in determining the overall Hypertension Score for the area.

Identifying standout practices is vital. Practices that prioritize hypertension management often demonstrate specific characteristics. These may include the use of electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient patient data tracking, standardized protocols for blood pressure measurement and medication management, and proactive outreach to patients with elevated readings. Some practices may also offer specialized programs, such as diabetes education or nutrition counseling, which indirectly support hypertension control. Evaluating these practices involves looking at their patient reviews, their adoption of evidence-based guidelines, and their commitment to patient education. The presence of these features contributes positively to the Hypertension Score.

Telemedicine adoption is a transformative element in modern healthcare, particularly for managing chronic conditions like hypertension. Telemedicine allows for remote blood pressure monitoring, medication refills, and virtual consultations, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. This is especially beneficial for patients with mobility issues, transportation challenges, or those living in geographically isolated areas. The extent of telemedicine integration within Somerset's primary care practices is a crucial factor. Practices that actively embrace telemedicine technologies will likely receive a higher score, reflecting their commitment to patient convenience and improved access to care.

The often-overlooked connection between mental health and hypertension is also crucial. Chronic stress and anxiety can significantly elevate blood pressure, making effective mental health support an integral component of comprehensive hypertension management. The availability of mental health resources within Somerset, including access to therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups, directly impacts the community's ability to address the psychological factors that can worsen hypertension. Practices that collaborate with mental health professionals or offer in-house mental health services will contribute to a higher Hypertension Score.

Evaluating specific practices requires considering several factors. For example, the "Somerset Family Practice" might have a strong reputation for patient care, but its Hypertension Score could be affected by the availability of appointments or its telemedicine capabilities. Conversely, a smaller practice might excel in patient communication and education, but its limited resources could impact its ability to provide comprehensive services. The assessment must consider all these factors to provide a nuanced understanding of each practice's contribution to hypertension management within the community.

The overall Hypertension Score for Somerset, MA (02725) is derived from a composite analysis of these factors. A low score might indicate a shortage of primary care physicians, limited telemedicine adoption, and inadequate mental health resources. This would suggest a need for improvements in access to care and the implementation of evidence-based practices. A high score, on the other hand, would reflect a community with readily available primary care, advanced telemedicine capabilities, and robust mental health support, signifying a strong environment for managing hypertension.

The specific practices within Somerset must be evaluated individually. This involves assessing their patient-to-physician ratios, their adoption of EHRs, their use of standardized protocols, and their commitment to patient education. The evaluation also considers the availability of mental health support and the extent of telemedicine integration. Each practice's contribution to the overall Hypertension Score is then determined based on its performance across these key indicators.

The availability of resources for patients is another critical element. Does Somerset have a local pharmacy with a pharmacist specializing in medication management? Are there community health programs that provide education and support for individuals with hypertension? The presence of these resources enhances the community's ability to effectively manage the condition. The availability of these resources influences the overall Hypertension Score, reflecting the community's commitment to supporting its residents' health.

The importance of patient education cannot be overstated. Practices that actively educate patients about hypertension, its risk factors, and lifestyle modifications contribute significantly to improved outcomes. This education might include providing information on healthy eating, regular exercise, stress management techniques, and the importance of medication adherence. Practices that prioritize patient education will likely receive a higher score, reflecting their commitment to empowering patients to take control of their health.

Finally, the overall assessment of Somerset, MA (02725) requires a comprehensive review of all these factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of individual practices, the extent of telemedicine adoption, the availability of mental health resources, and the presence of community support programs all play a crucial role in determining the community's ability to effectively manage hypertension. The final Hypertension Score reflects the collective strength and weaknesses of the healthcare infrastructure in Somerset.

For a visual representation of these factors and a deeper dive into the healthcare landscape of Somerset, MA (02725), consider exploring the power of CartoChrome maps.