02860, Pawtucket, Rhode Island Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 02860, Pawtucket, Rhode Island is 96 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.30 percent of the residents in 02860 has some form of health insurance. 46.60 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 55.91 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 02860 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 11,557 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 12 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02860. An estimate of 8 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,521 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,520 health care providers accessible to residents in 02860, Pawtucket, Rhode Island.

**Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 02860 and Primary Care Availability in Pawtucket**

Analyzing the landscape of hypertension care within ZIP code 02860, encompassing Pawtucket, Rhode Island, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers physician availability, the quality of care provided, and the accessibility of related resources. We'll evaluate these factors to provide a "Hypertension Score" assessment, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the current healthcare environment. This assessment will also touch upon the impact of telemedicine, mental health integration, and conclude with a call to action.

The core of effective hypertension management lies in the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Pawtucket, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. While exact figures fluctuate, the general trend indicates a potential shortage of PCPs relative to the population. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment initiation for individuals at risk of hypertension or those already diagnosed. A lower physician-to-patient ratio, a positive indicator, allows for more individualized attention and proactive care. Conversely, a higher ratio often strains resources, potentially impacting the quality and timeliness of care.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of care is paramount. This involves evaluating the practices of individual physicians and healthcare groups within 02860. Some practices stand out for their commitment to hypertension management, often incorporating best practices. This includes regular blood pressure monitoring, patient education on lifestyle modifications (diet, exercise, stress management), and the judicious use of medication when necessary. These standout practices often have dedicated staff, such as nurses and medical assistants, trained in hypertension management, allowing for more comprehensive patient support. They may also have established protocols for follow-up appointments and medication adjustments.

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool in healthcare, particularly for chronic conditions like hypertension. Its adoption within 02860 is a significant factor in our analysis. Telemedicine allows patients to remotely monitor their blood pressure, consult with their physicians via video or phone, and receive medication refills. This can be especially beneficial for patients with mobility issues, transportation challenges, or those living in underserved areas. The extent of telemedicine integration, including the availability of remote monitoring devices and the willingness of physicians to utilize telehealth platforms, significantly impacts our "Hypertension Score."

The connection between hypertension and mental health is increasingly recognized. Chronic stress and anxiety can elevate blood pressure, making mental health resources an essential component of comprehensive hypertension care. The availability of mental health services, such as counseling and therapy, within or in close proximity to primary care practices in 02860 is crucial. Integrated care models, where mental health professionals work collaboratively with PCPs, are particularly effective. The presence of such integrated care, or easy access to mental health referrals, directly influences our score.

Further, the utilization of electronic health records (EHRs) plays a vital role. EHRs facilitate the tracking of patient data, including blood pressure readings, medication lists, and lifestyle information. This allows physicians to monitor trends, identify potential problems early, and tailor treatment plans to individual needs. The degree to which practices in 02860 have adopted and effectively utilize EHRs is another key factor in our assessment. Data analytics derived from EHRs can also help identify at-risk populations and target preventative care efforts.

Another consideration is the availability of specialized services. 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 complications. The proximity of these specialists and the ease with which patients can obtain referrals influence the overall quality of care.

The "Hypertension Score" for doctors in 02860, and for primary care availability in Pawtucket, will be determined by weighting these factors. A practice with a low physician-to-patient ratio, a commitment to best practices, robust telemedicine adoption, integrated mental health resources, effective EHR usage, and easy access to specialists would receive a higher score. Conversely, practices lacking these elements would receive a lower score. The score is not a definitive ranking, but rather an assessment of the overall healthcare environment.

In conclusion, the healthcare landscape in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, presents both opportunities and challenges in hypertension management. While some practices excel, the potential for improvement exists. The physician-to-patient ratio, telemedicine adoption, mental health integration, and the commitment to best practices are crucial factors. Access to specialists and the effective use of EHRs are also key. Understanding these factors is essential for patients seeking quality hypertension care. The "Hypertension Score" is an attempt to summarize these complex variables.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in 02860, including the location of practices, physician specialties, and other relevant data, explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can offer a visual representation of the data, allowing you to identify healthcare resources and make informed decisions about your health.