15340, Hickory, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 15340, Hickory, Pennsylvania is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.41 percent of the residents in 15340 has some form of health insurance. 53.90 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 77.07 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 15340 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 246 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15340. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 381 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,896 health care providers accessible to residents in 15340, Hickory, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: ZIP Code 15340 & Primary Care in Hickory

Analyzing hypertension management within ZIP code 15340, encompassing Hickory, Pennsylvania, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians, assess the quality of care through a hypothetical "Hypertension Score," and examine factors influencing patient outcomes, including telemedicine adoption and access to mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the landscape for individuals managing hypertension in this specific geographic area.

The foundation of effective hypertension management rests upon accessible primary care. Determining the physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. While precise figures fluctuate, publicly available data sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the U.S. Census Bureau, combined with physician directories, can provide an estimate. A low physician-to-patient ratio, ideally below the national average, suggests greater access to primary care. Conversely, a high ratio can indicate potential challenges in securing timely appointments and consistent follow-up care, both vital for managing hypertension.

The "Hypertension Score" itself is a hypothetical metric. It would incorporate several factors, including the percentage of patients with hypertension receiving regular blood pressure checks, the proportion of patients achieving blood pressure control (defined by established guidelines), the utilization of evidence-based treatment protocols (medication adherence, lifestyle counseling), and the availability of patient education materials. This score would be calculated for individual practices and aggregated to provide an overall assessment of hypertension management within the ZIP code. This score, though hypothetical, illustrates the key components for assessing the quality of care.

Several practices within ZIP code 15340 may stand out in their approach to hypertension management. Identifying these "standout practices" requires examining their performance on the factors that contribute to the Hypertension Score. This might involve analyzing publicly available data (if available), patient reviews, and information on their use of innovative technologies. Practices that demonstrate a high percentage of patients achieving blood pressure control, coupled with a commitment to patient education and proactive outreach, would likely be considered leaders in this area.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important in healthcare, particularly for chronic conditions like hypertension. Practices utilizing telemedicine for virtual consultations, medication management, and remote blood pressure monitoring can significantly improve patient access to care and enhance adherence to treatment plans. Analyzing the extent of telemedicine integration within practices in ZIP code 15340 would reveal the degree to which technology is being leveraged to improve hypertension management. Practices that embrace telemedicine often demonstrate a greater commitment to patient convenience and proactive disease management.

The link between mental health and hypertension is well-established. Chronic stress and anxiety can elevate blood pressure, making it more difficult to manage. Access to mental health resources is, therefore, a critical component of comprehensive hypertension care. Assessing the availability of mental health services, including therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups, within the ZIP code is essential. Practices that integrate mental health screening and referrals into their hypertension management protocols are likely to achieve better patient outcomes. This integration acknowledges the interconnectedness of physical and mental well-being.

The specific demographics of Hickory, PA, also play a role. Understanding the age distribution, socioeconomic status, and racial/ethnic composition of the population can inform the analysis. For example, a higher proportion of elderly residents may necessitate a greater focus on geriatric care and medication management. Socioeconomic factors can influence access to healthy food options and exercise facilities, which are crucial for lifestyle modifications. Cultural sensitivity in patient education materials is also essential.

Examining the insurance landscape is another crucial factor. The prevalence of different insurance plans, including Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance, impacts the financial accessibility of care. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans are likely to serve a broader patient population. Understanding the cost of medications and the availability of financial assistance programs is also essential for ensuring that patients can afford their prescribed treatments.

Beyond the immediate clinical setting, community resources play a vital role. The presence of community health centers, free clinics, and support groups can supplement the care provided by primary care physicians. Analyzing the availability of these resources and their integration with primary care practices can paint a more complete picture of the support system available to individuals with hypertension. This collaborative approach is crucial for improving patient outcomes.

Data analysis is also crucial. Analyzing existing datasets, if available, such as claims data from insurance providers or patient registries, can provide valuable insights into hypertension prevalence, treatment patterns, and outcomes within the ZIP code. This data-driven approach can help identify areas where improvements are needed and track the effectiveness of interventions. Data can provide a more objective view of the current situation.

Finally, the analysis should consider the regulatory environment. Compliance with state and federal regulations related to healthcare, patient privacy, and data security is essential. This includes adherence to guidelines for hypertension management and reporting requirements. Practices that prioritize compliance demonstrate a commitment to quality and patient safety.

Ultimately, improving hypertension management in ZIP code 15340 requires a multi-pronged approach. It involves ensuring adequate access to primary care, promoting the adoption of evidence-based practices, integrating telemedicine and mental health resources, and fostering a supportive community environment. The "Hypertension Score" serves as a useful framework for evaluating progress and identifying areas for improvement.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Hickory, PA, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to resources, explore the interactive maps available from CartoChrome. They offer a powerful tool for understanding the geographic distribution of healthcare services and identifying areas where resources are most needed.