15049, Harwick, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 15049, Harwick, Pennsylvania is 94 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.03 percent of the residents in 15049 has some form of health insurance. 45.36 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 80.33 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 15049 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 88 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 246 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15049. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 241 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 10,171 health care providers accessible to residents in 15049, Harwick, Pennsylvania.

**Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 15049 and Primary Care Availability in Harwick**

This analysis assesses the landscape of hypertension management within ZIP code 15049, encompassing the community of Harwick, Pennsylvania, focusing on primary care access and the availability of resources crucial for effective blood pressure control. The evaluation considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health support, all vital components of a comprehensive hypertension care strategy.

The initial assessment centers on physician density. Determining the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) actively practicing within 15049 is paramount. Data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health, insurance provider directories, and publicly available physician databases must be compiled. This data needs to be cross-referenced with population figures for Harwick and the surrounding areas within the ZIP code. This allows for the calculation of a physician-to-patient ratio, a key indicator of access to care. A lower ratio (more physicians per patient) suggests better accessibility, potentially leading to earlier diagnoses and more frequent monitoring, both critical in hypertension management.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of care provided by the PCPs is a crucial factor. Identifying “standout practices” requires a deeper dive. This involves researching patient reviews on platforms like Healthgrades, Vitals, and Google Reviews. Analyzing these reviews for themes related to hypertension management, such as proactive screening, clear communication about treatment plans, and ease of appointment scheduling, provides insight into the quality of care. Additionally, examining whether practices are recognized by organizations like the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) for their patient-centered medical home (PCMH) designation or participation in quality improvement programs related to cardiovascular health can provide valuable insights.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical element. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the use of telehealth, and its continued integration is essential for managing chronic conditions like hypertension. Assessing which practices within 15049 offer telemedicine consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring capabilities, and digital patient portals for communication and medication refills is crucial. Practices that have embraced telehealth are likely to offer greater convenience, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in geographically isolated areas. This can improve adherence to treatment plans and facilitate more frequent check-ins, leading to better blood pressure control.

The integration of mental health resources is often overlooked, yet it is a critical factor in effective hypertension management. Stress and anxiety can significantly impact blood pressure levels, and patients with these conditions may struggle to adhere to lifestyle modifications and medication regimens. Determining whether practices within 15049 offer access to on-site mental health professionals, referrals to local therapists and psychiatrists, or incorporate screening for mental health conditions into their routine check-ups is vital. Practices that recognize the link between mental and physical health and provide integrated care are better positioned to support patients in managing their hypertension effectively.

The analysis should also assess the availability of ancillary services that support hypertension management. This includes access to registered dietitians for nutritional counseling, certified diabetes educators for lifestyle education, and pharmacists who can provide medication counseling and address potential drug interactions. Practices that collaborate with these specialists create a more comprehensive and patient-centered approach to care.

The geographical distribution of primary care practices within 15049 is another important consideration. Are practices clustered in certain areas, potentially creating access barriers for residents in other parts of the ZIP code? This requires mapping the locations of practices and overlaying them with population density data to identify potential areas of need. Public transportation access to these practices should also be considered, as transportation limitations can further exacerbate access issues for some patients.

Furthermore, the analysis should investigate the insurance coverage accepted by the primary care practices. Do they accept a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, to ensure access for all residents? The acceptance of these plans is crucial for ensuring that all members of the community have access to affordable healthcare.

Finally, the analysis should consider the degree to which practices are proactive in hypertension management. This includes the use of electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient data, the implementation of reminder systems for appointments and medication refills, and the use of evidence-based guidelines for treatment. Practices that actively engage in these proactive measures are more likely to provide high-quality care and improve patient outcomes.

In conclusion, the effective management of hypertension within 15049 and Harwick requires a multi-faceted approach. The availability of primary care physicians, the quality of care provided, the integration of telemedicine and mental health resources, and the availability of ancillary services all contribute to the overall effectiveness of hypertension management.

To gain a visual understanding of the distribution of physicians, their locations, and the availability of resources within 15049, we encourage you to explore the power of interactive mapping. **Visit CartoChrome maps to visualize the data and gain a comprehensive perspective on the healthcare landscape in Harwick and the surrounding areas.**