15459, Markleysburg, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 15459, Markleysburg, Pennsylvania is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.97 percent of the residents in 15459 has some form of health insurance. 39.40 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.28 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 15459 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 455 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15459. 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 448 health care providers accessible to residents in 15459, Markleysburg, Pennsylvania.

**Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 15459 and Primary Care in Markleysburg**

Analyzing healthcare access and quality, especially regarding hypertension management, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis focuses on ZIP code 15459 (Markleysburg, PA) and its surrounding area, evaluating the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs), their practices, and resources relevant to hypertension control. This assessment considers physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial factors in providing comprehensive care.

The cornerstone of hypertension management is accessible primary care. In a rural area like Markleysburg, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A high ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially, poorer health outcomes. Precise physician-to-patient ratio data requires up-to-the-minute information, which is dynamic. Publicly available data, such as that from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), can offer insights, but it's essential to verify these numbers with local sources, including hospitals and community health centers.

The presence of standout practices is another key factor. These practices often demonstrate excellence in patient care, utilizing evidence-based guidelines for hypertension management. They might offer specialized programs, such as patient education classes on diet and exercise, medication adherence support, and regular blood pressure monitoring. These practices may also be recognized for their commitment to preventative care, including regular screenings and lifestyle counseling. Identifying these practices requires a review of online reviews, patient testimonials, and, ideally, direct observation of their operations.

Telemedicine has emerged as a vital tool, especially in rural areas where geographical barriers can hinder access to care. The adoption of telemedicine by PCPs in 15459 and the surrounding areas is a significant indicator of healthcare accessibility. Telemedicine can facilitate remote consultations, medication management, and blood pressure monitoring. It can also improve patient convenience and reduce the need for travel. Examining the availability of telehealth services, the types of services offered, and patient satisfaction with these services is essential.

Hypertension often co-exists with mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression. Therefore, the integration of mental health resources within primary care practices is crucial. This includes access to mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers. The availability of mental health services within the primary care setting can improve patient outcomes by addressing the interconnectedness of physical and mental health. This can involve co-locating mental health providers within the practice, offering integrated behavioral health services, and establishing referral pathways to specialized mental health care.

The assessment of primary care availability in Markleysburg and the surrounding areas must also consider the specific needs of the population. This includes the prevalence of hypertension, the demographics of the community, and any existing health disparities. Understanding these factors can help identify areas where healthcare resources are most needed and tailor interventions to meet the specific needs of the community. This requires data on the prevalence of hypertension in the area, the age and ethnic distribution of the population, and any socioeconomic factors that may impact health outcomes.

The evaluation of healthcare practices should also include an assessment of their use of technology. This includes the use of electronic health records (EHRs), patient portals, and other digital tools. EHRs can improve care coordination, facilitate data sharing, and support clinical decision-making. Patient portals can empower patients to manage their health, access their medical records, and communicate with their providers. The adoption of these technologies can improve the efficiency and effectiveness of care.

Furthermore, the assessment should consider the availability of ancillary services, such as pharmacies, laboratories, and imaging centers. Easy access to these services is essential for hypertension management. This includes the availability of affordable medications, convenient blood pressure monitoring, and timely diagnostic testing. The proximity of these services to primary care practices can improve patient convenience and compliance with treatment plans.

Finally, the assessment should include a review of the healthcare system's responsiveness to patient needs. This includes the availability of after-hours care, the ease of scheduling appointments, and the responsiveness of providers to patient inquiries. A patient-centered approach to care is essential for building trust and improving patient outcomes. This requires a focus on communication, shared decision-making, and patient satisfaction.

In conclusion, evaluating hypertension care in 15459 and the surrounding areas requires a comprehensive analysis of primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. Understanding the specific needs of the population, the use of technology, and the availability of ancillary services are also crucial. This detailed assessment provides a foundation for improving healthcare access and quality in the area.

For a deeper dive into the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, physician locations, and other relevant data points within the 15459 ZIP code and surrounding areas, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome. Their maps can provide a visual representation of the information discussed, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Markleysburg and the surrounding areas.