02879, Wakefield, Rhode Island Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 02879, Wakefield, Rhode Island is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.16 percent of the residents in 02879 has some form of health insurance. 38.81 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.43 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 02879 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,269 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02879. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,400 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,108 health care providers accessible to residents in 02879, Wakefield, Rhode Island.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Wakefield, RI (ZIP Code 02879)

This analysis evaluates the landscape of hypertension care within Wakefield, Rhode Island (ZIP code 02879), focusing on primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine integration, and the presence of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive 'Hypertension Score' assessment, offering insights into the quality and accessibility of care for individuals managing or at risk of developing high blood pressure.

The foundation of effective hypertension management lies in accessible primary care. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) in Wakefield is a crucial factor. Analyzing the physician-to-patient ratio provides a preliminary understanding of access. A higher ratio, indicating more patients per physician, can potentially lead to longer wait times for appointments and decreased time dedicated to each patient during consultations. This can negatively impact the ability to effectively monitor and manage hypertension. Researching the specific patient load of each practice within the zip code, and comparing it to state and national averages, is a necessary first step.

Beyond raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs across the area is important. Are there underserved pockets within Wakefield where access to care is limited? Factors like transportation, socioeconomic status, and insurance coverage can further exacerbate disparities in access. A detailed analysis would involve mapping the location of each practice, considering its proximity to public transportation, and identifying the insurance plans accepted.

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive. This involves evaluating several factors. First, a review of online patient reviews on platforms such as Healthgrades, Vitals, and Google Reviews can provide insights into patient satisfaction, communication, and the overall patient experience. Second, assessing the practice's commitment to evidence-based hypertension management protocols is crucial. This includes adherence to guidelines from organizations like the American Heart Association (AHA) and the American College of Cardiology (ACC). Does the practice actively monitor blood pressure, offer lifestyle counseling, and prescribe appropriate medications?

The adoption of telemedicine is a significant factor in the modern healthcare landscape, especially for chronic conditions like hypertension. Telemedicine can enhance access to care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those living in geographically isolated areas. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption in Wakefield involves determining whether practices offer virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and online patient portals for communication and medication refills. Practices with robust telemedicine programs likely score higher on the Hypertension Score.

The interconnectedness of physical and mental health is increasingly recognized. Hypertension is often linked to stress, anxiety, and depression. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through referrals is a key component of comprehensive hypertension care. Evaluating the practices' connections to mental health providers, whether through on-site therapists, partnerships with mental health clinics, or established referral networks, is essential. Practices that integrate mental health support into their hypertension management programs are likely to provide a higher quality of care.

The 'Hypertension Score' should also incorporate an assessment of preventative care initiatives. Does the practice offer regular health screenings, including blood pressure checks, cholesterol tests, and diabetes screenings? Do they provide patient education on healthy lifestyle choices, such as diet, exercise, and smoking cessation? Practices that actively promote preventative care are better positioned to identify and manage hypertension early, improving patient outcomes.

Analyzing the practice's staffing model is also important. The presence of nurses, medical assistants, and other healthcare professionals can impact the efficiency and effectiveness of care. A well-staffed practice can provide more comprehensive support to patients, including medication management, lifestyle counseling, and patient education. The availability of specialized staff, such as certified diabetes educators or registered dietitians, can further enhance the quality of care.

The infrastructure of the practice should also be considered. Does the practice have modern equipment for blood pressure monitoring and other diagnostic tests? Is the office environment clean, comfortable, and accessible to patients with disabilities? A well-maintained and patient-friendly environment can contribute to a positive patient experience and improve adherence to treatment plans.

Finally, the practice's commitment to data-driven improvement is crucial. Does the practice track patient outcomes, such as blood pressure control rates and medication adherence? Does the practice use data to identify areas for improvement and implement evidence-based interventions? Practices that actively monitor and analyze their performance are better positioned to deliver high-quality care.

In conclusion, assessing the quality of hypertension care in Wakefield (02879) involves a multifaceted analysis. It requires examining physician-to-patient ratios, evaluating the practices' adherence to evidence-based guidelines, assessing the adoption of telemedicine, and evaluating the availability of mental health resources and preventative care initiatives. The 'Hypertension Score' is a composite measure reflecting these factors, providing a valuable tool for patients seeking high-quality care.

For a visual and interactive representation of the healthcare landscape in Wakefield, including the location of practices, physician-to-patient ratios, and other relevant data, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and insightful view of the available resources and help you make informed decisions about your healthcare.