15550, Manns Choice, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 15550, Manns Choice, Pennsylvania is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.06 percent of the residents in 15550 has some form of health insurance. 39.13 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.29 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 15550 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 450 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15550. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 289 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 571 health care providers accessible to residents in 15550, Manns Choice, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 15550 and Primary Care Availability in Manns Choice

This analysis delves into the landscape of hypertension management within ZIP Code 15550, specifically focusing on the town of Manns Choice, Pennsylvania, and its surrounding areas. The goal is to assess the availability and quality of primary care services, a critical factor in controlling and treating hypertension. We will evaluate various aspects, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial components of a comprehensive hypertension care model.

The foundation of effective hypertension management rests on accessible and competent primary care. In Manns Choice, assessing this access begins with understanding the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of primary care physicians, can significantly hinder timely diagnosis, regular check-ups, and medication management, all vital for controlling blood pressure. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility, potentially leading to better patient outcomes. Publicly available data, such as that from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), can provide insights into the number of primary care physicians practicing within the ZIP Code and the corresponding population. This data, combined with information on physician specialties (e.g., internal medicine, family medicine) and their willingness to accept new patients, forms the basis for evaluating the accessibility of primary care.

Identifying standout practices within the area is crucial. These practices often demonstrate best practices in hypertension management. This involves looking for clinics that actively screen patients for hypertension, provide comprehensive education on lifestyle modifications (diet, exercise, stress management), and utilize evidence-based treatment protocols. Key indicators include the use of electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient data management and patient tracking, the implementation of patient portals for communication and access to medical information, and the availability of on-site resources like registered dietitians or certified diabetes educators. Furthermore, practices that participate in quality improvement initiatives, such as those promoted by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), are often committed to delivering high-quality care.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in expanding access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas like Manns Choice. Its adoption by local practices is a critical factor in this assessment. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, medication management, and remote monitoring of blood pressure, particularly for patients with mobility issues or those living in geographically isolated areas. The availability of telehealth services can significantly improve adherence to treatment plans and reduce the need for frequent in-person visits. The analysis should identify which practices offer telehealth options, the types of services provided (e.g., video consultations, remote monitoring), and the ease of access for patients.

Hypertension is often intertwined with mental health. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure control. Therefore, the integration of mental health resources within primary care settings is essential. This assessment will investigate the availability of mental health services within the practices. This includes the presence of on-site therapists or psychiatrists, the referral pathways to mental health specialists, and the integration of mental health screenings into routine check-ups. Practices that recognize the link between mental and physical health and provide accessible mental health support are better equipped to manage hypertension holistically.

The analysis will also consider the availability of resources outside of the primary care setting. This includes access to pharmacies for medication refills, community-based programs promoting healthy lifestyles, and support groups for individuals with hypertension. The proximity of these resources to the patients' homes is also a factor.

Analyzing the data collected, the final 'Hypertension Score' will be a composite measure reflecting the overall quality and accessibility of hypertension care in ZIP Code 15550. This score will be based on a weighted average of the factors discussed above: physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. The weighting will be based on the relative importance of each factor in achieving optimal hypertension control. The score will be presented in a clear and concise manner, providing a readily understandable assessment of the healthcare landscape.

The assessment will also consider the impact of socioeconomic factors on hypertension management. Factors such as income levels, access to healthy food options, and transportation availability can significantly influence a patient's ability to manage their condition. The analysis will consider these factors and their potential impact on the effectiveness of hypertension care within the community.

The analysis will not only evaluate the current state of hypertension care but also identify areas for improvement. This includes identifying gaps in services, highlighting best practices, and suggesting strategies for enhancing access to care and improving patient outcomes. This may involve recommendations for increasing the number of primary care physicians, promoting telemedicine adoption, and integrating mental health services into primary care practices.

In conclusion, a thorough assessment of hypertension care in Manns Choice and ZIP Code 15550 requires a multifaceted approach. By evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and examining the integration of mental health resources, a comprehensive picture of the healthcare landscape can be created. The final 'Hypertension Score' will provide a valuable tool for understanding the quality and accessibility of hypertension care in the area.

For a visual representation of this data and a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of healthcare resources in Manns Choice and beyond, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can help you visualize the physician-to-patient ratios, the locations of standout practices, and the availability of telemedicine services. They can also help you identify areas with limited access to care and highlight opportunities for improvement. Explore the possibilities of CartoChrome maps today to gain a more comprehensive perspective on the healthcare landscape in your community.