15522, Bedford, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 15522, Bedford, Pennsylvania is 13 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.39 percent of the residents in 15522 has some form of health insurance. 41.56 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.00 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 15522 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,873 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15522. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,820 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 489 health care providers accessible to residents in 15522, Bedford, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Bedford, PA (ZIP Code 15522)

This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of hypertension management capabilities within Bedford, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15522), focusing on primary care physician availability, the quality of care, and access to resources. It aims to provide a "Hypertension Score" assessment, considering various factors crucial for effective hypertension control.

The foundation of effective hypertension management lies in readily accessible primary care. Within Bedford, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. While precise figures fluctuate, a shortage of primary care physicians (PCPs) can significantly hinder access to timely diagnosis, medication management, and lifestyle counseling. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially compromised care quality. The availability of PCPs also impacts the ability to establish strong patient-physician relationships, which are vital for long-term adherence to treatment plans.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Evaluating the "Hypertension Score" necessitates an examination of the clinical practices within the ZIP code. Some practices may stand out due to their proactive approach to hypertension management. This includes the implementation of standardized protocols for blood pressure screening, the use of electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient data tracking, and the adoption of evidence-based guidelines for treatment. Practices that actively engage patients in their care through patient education programs, lifestyle modification counseling, and regular follow-up appointments are likely to achieve better outcomes.

The presence of specialized services also influences the "Hypertension Score." Access to cardiology specialists for complex cases is essential. Patients with uncontrolled hypertension, or those with underlying cardiovascular conditions, require the expertise of cardiologists. The availability of these specialists within a reasonable distance is a crucial factor. Furthermore, access to related services, such as registered dietitians, certified diabetes educators, and behavioral health professionals, contributes to a holistic approach to hypertension management.

Telemedicine adoption is another key element in the "Hypertension Score" assessment. The utilization of telemedicine platforms can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas like Bedford. Telemedicine enables remote consultations, medication management, and remote patient monitoring. This can reduce the burden of travel, especially for elderly patients or those with mobility limitations. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are likely to be more responsive to patient needs and better equipped to manage chronic conditions like hypertension.

Mental health resources play a vital, often overlooked, role in hypertension management. Stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure. Therefore, the availability of mental health services within the community directly influences the "Hypertension Score." This includes access to psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed therapists, and support groups. Practices that integrate mental health screening and referrals into their hypertension management protocols are better positioned to address the multifaceted needs of their patients.

Specific practices within Bedford may demonstrate exceptional performance in hypertension management. Identifying these "standout practices" requires a deeper dive into their clinical outcomes, patient satisfaction scores, and adherence to best practices. Factors to consider include the percentage of patients with controlled blood pressure, the use of medication adherence programs, and the frequency of patient education initiatives. These practices can serve as models for others, demonstrating the potential for improved outcomes within the community.

The infrastructure supporting hypertension care is also important. This includes the availability of affordable medications, access to diagnostic testing, and the presence of community health programs. The local pharmacy landscape, including the availability of generic medications and pharmacist counseling services, plays a crucial role. The accessibility of affordable diagnostic tests, such as ambulatory blood pressure monitoring, is also essential for accurate diagnosis and management.

The "Hypertension Score" is not static; it evolves with changes in the healthcare landscape. Factors such as the implementation of new guidelines, the introduction of innovative technologies, and changes in insurance coverage can all influence the quality of care. Ongoing monitoring and evaluation are necessary to ensure that the community is adequately equipped to address the challenges of hypertension.

In conclusion, the "Hypertension Score" for Bedford, PA (ZIP Code 15522), is a complex metric influenced by physician availability, quality of care, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health resources. While a definitive score requires a comprehensive data analysis, this overview provides a framework for understanding the key factors.

For a more detailed visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Bedford, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to services, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps available through CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful way to visualize healthcare data and gain a deeper understanding of the resources available in your community.