15544, Gray, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 15544, Gray, Pennsylvania is 97 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 15544 has some form of health insurance. 23.66 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.34 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 15544 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 29 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15544. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 31 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 762 health care providers accessible to residents in 15544, Gray, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Gray, PA (ZIP Code 15544)

Analyzing the landscape of hypertension care in Gray, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15544) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers several key factors, including the availability of primary care physicians, their patient load, the adoption of innovative technologies like telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial components in effectively managing hypertension. This analysis will culminate in a hypothetical “Hypertension Score” for the area, offering insights into the quality and accessibility of care.

The foundation of effective hypertension management rests upon accessible primary care. In Gray, the availability of primary care physicians is the first hurdle. Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio is critical. This involves identifying the number of practicing primary care physicians within the ZIP code and comparing it to the estimated population. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, suggests potential challenges in accessing timely appointments and regular check-ups, both vital for hypertension control. Conversely, a higher ratio implies potentially better access, allowing for more proactive and preventative care. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) can be consulted to gather this information.

Beyond sheer numbers, the distribution of primary care practices within the ZIP code is also significant. Are the practices concentrated in a single area, or are they dispersed, potentially reducing travel time for patients? The presence of practices accepting new patients is another crucial consideration. Practices with open availability ensure that individuals can establish care without significant delays. Furthermore, the types of insurance accepted by these practices are relevant. The ability to accept a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicare, Medicaid, and various private insurance options, ensures that care is accessible to a broader population.

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive into their operational models and patient outcomes. Practices that actively implement evidence-based guidelines for hypertension management are highly valued. This includes practices that routinely monitor blood pressure, provide patient education on lifestyle modifications (diet, exercise, stress management), and prescribe appropriate medications. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, such as offering extended hours, same-day appointments, or multilingual services, are also considered favorably. Patient reviews and testimonials, though not always definitive, can provide valuable insights into patient satisfaction and the overall quality of care.

Telemedicine adoption is another key indicator of the quality and accessibility of hypertension care. Telemedicine offers several advantages, including the ability to conduct virtual consultations, remotely monitor blood pressure, and provide medication management. Practices that embrace telemedicine can improve patient convenience, reduce travel time, and enhance medication adherence. The availability of remote blood pressure monitoring devices, coupled with regular virtual check-ins with a physician or nurse, can significantly improve hypertension control, especially for patients with limited mobility or those living in remote areas. The extent of telemedicine adoption can be assessed through practice websites, online directories, and direct inquiries.

The integration of mental health resources is a critical, yet often overlooked, aspect of hypertension management. Stress and anxiety can significantly elevate blood pressure, making mental health support an essential component of comprehensive care. Practices that offer on-site mental health services, or that have established referral networks with mental health professionals, are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients. This integrated approach can lead to improved patient outcomes and a greater likelihood of long-term hypertension control. Assessing the availability of these resources requires examining practice websites, contacting practices directly, and reviewing patient information materials.

To synthesize this information into a “Hypertension Score,” a weighted scoring system can be employed. Each of the above factors – physician-to-patient ratio, practice distribution, telemedicine adoption, and mental health integration – would be assigned a weight based on its relative importance. For example, physician-to-patient ratio and practice distribution might carry a higher weight than telemedicine adoption, reflecting their foundational importance in accessing care. Each practice would then be evaluated based on its performance across each factor, and a score would be assigned. The overall “Hypertension Score” for ZIP Code 15544 would then be derived from the average scores of the practices in the area.

This hypothetical score, however, is only a starting point. It provides a snapshot of the current state of hypertension care in Gray, PA, and can be used to identify areas for improvement. For example, if the score is low, it might indicate a need for increased physician recruitment, the expansion of telemedicine services, or greater integration of mental health resources.

The limitations of this analysis must also be acknowledged. This assessment relies on publicly available data and information gathered through online research. A more comprehensive analysis would involve direct contact with the practices, patient surveys, and a review of clinical outcomes data. The “Hypertension Score” is a relative measure and should not be interpreted as a definitive judgment of the quality of care.

Ultimately, improving hypertension care in Gray, PA, requires a collaborative effort involving physicians, healthcare organizations, policymakers, and the community. By addressing the key factors outlined in this analysis, the community can work towards creating a healthcare environment that supports optimal hypertension management and improves the health and well-being of its residents.

For a more detailed and geographically informed understanding of healthcare access and resources in Gray, PA (ZIP Code 15544), consider utilizing the advanced mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides a powerful platform for visualizing healthcare data, identifying areas of need, and planning effective interventions. Explore the possibilities and gain a deeper understanding of your community's healthcare landscape.