15368, Vestaburg, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 15368, Vestaburg, Pennsylvania is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.76 percent of the residents in 15368 has some form of health insurance. 56.58 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.99 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 15368 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 70 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15368. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 79 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,090 health care providers accessible to residents in 15368, Vestaburg, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: 15368 & Vestaburg Primary Care

This analysis delves into the landscape of hypertension management within the 15368 ZIP code, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care services in the surrounding Vestaburg area. The goal is to assess the resources available to patients managing hypertension, considering factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and access to mental health support. A comprehensive understanding of these elements is crucial for improving patient outcomes and promoting proactive healthcare management.

The foundation of effective hypertension management rests upon accessible and competent primary care. In Vestaburg, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical factor. Data regarding the exact physician-to-patient ratio within the 15368 ZIP code is essential. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or state health departments would provide a baseline. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, signals potential challenges in accessing timely appointments, leading to delayed diagnoses and treatment initiation. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests better access, allowing for more frequent check-ups and proactive management.

Further investigation into the specific practices serving the Vestaburg area is necessary. Identifying standout practices requires examining their commitment to hypertension management protocols. This includes evaluating their adherence to national guidelines (e.g., those from the American Heart Association/American College of Cardiology), their use of evidence-based treatments, and their patient education programs. Practices employing electronic health records (EHRs) with built-in hypertension management tools, such as automated reminders for medication refills and blood pressure monitoring, are often better equipped to provide comprehensive care.

The adoption of telemedicine is another significant factor. Telemedicine, including virtual consultations and remote patient monitoring, offers several advantages in hypertension management. It expands access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. It also facilitates more frequent monitoring of blood pressure and medication adherence. Practices actively utilizing telemedicine platforms for hypertension management should be recognized for their forward-thinking approach. This includes the availability of remote blood pressure monitoring devices, virtual follow-up appointments, and patient portals for secure communication.

Mental health is inextricably linked to hypertension management. Stress and anxiety can elevate blood pressure, and patients with underlying mental health conditions may experience challenges adhering to treatment plans. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through readily accessible referrals is crucial. Practices that integrate behavioral health specialists into their care teams or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals demonstrate a holistic approach to patient well-being. This could include on-site therapists, partnerships with local mental health clinics, or resources for stress management and relaxation techniques.

The assessment also considers the prevalence of hypertension within the 15368 ZIP code and the demographics of the patient population. Data on the prevalence of hypertension can be obtained from sources such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) or state health departments. Understanding the demographics, including age, race, and socioeconomic status, is essential for tailoring interventions and addressing health disparities. For instance, targeted education programs for specific demographic groups can improve adherence to treatment plans and promote healthy lifestyle choices.

Identifying specific practices within the 15368 ZIP code that excel in hypertension management requires a deeper dive. This includes examining patient satisfaction scores, reviewing physician credentials and specializations, and assessing the availability of ancillary services such as on-site pharmacies or laboratory testing. Practices that consistently demonstrate positive patient outcomes, as measured by blood pressure control rates and reduced cardiovascular events, should be highlighted as models of excellence.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the role of community resources in supporting hypertension management. This includes the availability of local pharmacies offering medication counseling and blood pressure screenings, community health centers providing affordable care, and support groups for patients with hypertension. Collaborations between primary care practices and community organizations can enhance patient access to resources and promote a comprehensive approach to care.

The analysis must also address potential barriers to care. These might include transportation challenges, language barriers, or financial constraints. Practices that actively address these barriers, such as offering transportation assistance, providing multilingual materials, or assisting patients with medication costs, demonstrate a commitment to equitable care.

Finally, the analysis should offer recommendations for improving hypertension management within the 15368 ZIP code and the Vestaburg area. This might include recommendations for increasing the number of PCPs, promoting telemedicine adoption, integrating mental health services, and strengthening collaborations with community resources. The recommendations should be evidence-based and tailored to the specific needs of the local population.

To further enhance your understanding of the healthcare landscape in 15368 and Vestaburg, explore the power of visual data with CartoChrome maps. Gain a clear, interactive view of physician locations, primary care availability, and other crucial healthcare resources.