15346, Mather, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 15346, Mather, Pennsylvania is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.46 percent of the residents in 15346 has some form of health insurance. 54.03 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.19 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 15346 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 80 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15346. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 97 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,858 health care providers accessible to residents in 15346, Mather, Pennsylvania.

**Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 15346 and Primary Care Availability in Mather**

Analyzing the healthcare landscape within ZIP Code 15346 and the specific focus on primary care availability in Mather necessitates a multifaceted approach. A "Hypertension Score" isn't a standardized metric, but for this analysis, it represents an assessment of factors impacting hypertension management within the defined geographical area. This includes physician availability, access to specialized care, the integration of technology, and the availability of resources to address the mental health aspects of hypertension. The score will be a composite of these elements, providing a nuanced understanding of the community's ability to effectively manage this prevalent condition.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical starting point. ZIP Code 15346, encompassing a specific geographical area, likely presents a unique demographic profile. Researching the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) actively practicing within the ZIP code, compared to the estimated population, provides a baseline. A low ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, suggests potential challenges in accessing timely appointments and ongoing care. Data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, combined with publicly available information from insurance providers and online physician directories, can help determine this ratio. This ratio impacts the score significantly, as it directly influences the ease with which patients can establish and maintain relationships with their primary care providers.

Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of these physicians matters. Are PCPs concentrated in specific areas within the ZIP code, potentially creating healthcare deserts for certain residents? Are there any federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or community clinics that offer services to underserved populations? The presence of these resources can positively influence the score, as they often provide comprehensive care, including hypertension management, regardless of a patient's ability to pay. Investigating the location of these facilities and their capacity to serve the local population is crucial.

Identifying standout practices involves looking beyond just the number of physicians. Some practices may excel in hypertension management through proactive measures. These practices often utilize evidence-based guidelines, such as those from the American Heart Association (AHA) and the American College of Cardiology (ACC). They may employ strategies like regular blood pressure monitoring, medication adherence programs, and patient education initiatives. Researching the practices within the ZIP code and assessing their adoption of these best practices is vital. This might involve reviewing patient testimonials, checking online ratings, and examining the practice's website for information on its approach to hypertension care.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor in the Hypertension Score. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and online patient portals can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in geographically isolated areas. Investigating the telemedicine capabilities of practices within the ZIP code is essential. Do they offer virtual appointments? Do they utilize remote monitoring devices to track patient blood pressure readings? The extent of telemedicine integration directly impacts the score, as it reflects the practice's ability to adapt to the evolving needs of patients and improve access to care.

The connection between hypertension and mental health is well-established. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can exacerbate hypertension and hinder effective management. The availability of mental health resources within the ZIP code is therefore crucial. This includes access to therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups. Researching the availability of these resources and their integration with primary care practices is important. Do PCPs have referral pathways to mental health professionals? Do they screen patients for mental health issues? The presence of these integrated services can positively influence the score, as it reflects a holistic approach to patient care.

Focusing on primary care availability in Mather, a specific community within the ZIP code, requires a more granular analysis. The physician-to-patient ratio within Mather itself is critical. Are there any PCPs practicing directly within Mather, or do residents need to travel to other areas within the ZIP code for care? The presence of a local clinic or medical facility significantly impacts the score, as it improves accessibility.

Furthermore, the availability of transportation options within Mather is important. If residents lack reliable transportation, accessing primary care, even within the ZIP code, can be challenging. Investigating the availability of public transportation, ride-sharing services, and community transportation programs is important. This is especially true for elderly residents or those with disabilities.

The quality of care provided within Mather is also a key consideration. Are the existing primary care providers well-regarded within the community? Do they have a reputation for providing high-quality, patient-centered care? Researching patient reviews, gathering anecdotal evidence, and assessing the practice's commitment to patient education and support can help determine the quality of care.

The overall "Hypertension Score" for the area will be a composite of these factors. It will reflect the availability of PCPs, the distribution of resources, the adoption of technology, the integration of mental health services, and the specific considerations for the Mather community. A high score would indicate a strong healthcare infrastructure, with ample access to primary care, a commitment to evidence-based practices, and a focus on patient-centered care. A low score would indicate areas for improvement, such as a shortage of PCPs, limited access to mental health resources, and a lack of telemedicine adoption.

This analysis provides a framework for understanding the complexities of hypertension management within ZIP Code 15346 and the specific considerations for Mather. Further research, including gathering data from healthcare providers, reviewing patient records, and conducting community surveys, is needed to create a comprehensive and accurate assessment.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape, including physician locations, practice locations, and access to resources, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can visually display the data gathered, highlighting areas of strength and areas that need improvement. They offer a powerful tool for understanding the geographical distribution of healthcare resources and identifying potential disparities in access to care.