15688, Tarrs, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 15688, Tarrs, Pennsylvania is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.81 percent of the residents in 15688 has some form of health insurance. 29.65 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 85.82 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 15688 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 145 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15688. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 221 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,610 health care providers accessible to residents in 15688, Tarrs, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Tarrs, PA (ZIP Code 15688)

This analysis assesses the landscape of hypertension care within the Tarrs, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15688) area, focusing on primary care physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive 'Hypertension Score' analysis, evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem in addressing this prevalent health concern.

The foundation of effective hypertension management rests on accessible primary care. Determining the physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. While precise data requires access to proprietary databases, estimations can be made using publicly available information and population demographics. ZIP code 15688, being a relatively small and rural area, likely faces challenges in physician density. A low physician-to-patient ratio, where a limited number of primary care physicians serve a larger population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced patient access, and potentially compromised continuity of care. This impacts the ability to consistently monitor blood pressure and ensure adherence to treatment plans.

Identifying standout practices within 15688 is essential. Practices demonstrating a commitment to hypertension management often exhibit specific characteristics. These may include implementing standardized blood pressure measurement protocols, utilizing electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient data and facilitate medication management, and offering patient education programs on lifestyle modifications, such as diet and exercise. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, track patient outcomes, and strive for continuous improvement are also likely to be more successful in controlling hypertension. Such practices are crucial for improving overall community health.

The adoption of telemedicine has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers and provide patients with convenient access to healthcare services. For hypertension management, telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, medication refills, and remote blood pressure monitoring. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their workflow are likely to improve patient engagement, enhance medication adherence, and reduce the need for frequent in-person visits. This is particularly beneficial for patients with mobility issues or transportation challenges.

The link between hypertension and mental health is well-established. Chronic stress and anxiety can contribute to elevated blood pressure, and individuals with hypertension may experience increased stress related to their condition. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is critical for comprehensive hypertension care. This includes access to mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, who can provide counseling, therapy, and medication management. Practices that collaborate with mental health providers or have integrated mental health services within their practice are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients.

Assessing the availability of these resources requires a multi-faceted approach. Public health databases, local hospital websites, and insurance provider directories can provide information on the number of primary care physicians, the services offered by local practices, and the availability of mental health professionals. Additionally, patient testimonials and online reviews can offer insights into the quality of care and patient experiences. However, it is crucial to recognize that this information may not always be complete or up-to-date.

The specific challenges faced by 15688 in managing hypertension are likely amplified by its rural setting. Limited access to specialized care, such as cardiology and nephrology, can pose additional hurdles. Patients may need to travel longer distances for specialized consultations and procedures, which can be time-consuming and costly. Addressing these challenges requires a collaborative approach involving healthcare providers, public health officials, and community organizations.

The 'Hypertension Score' for 15688 would be a composite metric, reflecting the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the level of telemedicine adoption, and the accessibility of mental health resources. A higher score would indicate a more favorable environment for hypertension management, while a lower score would highlight areas for improvement. This score should not be seen as a definitive judgment but rather a starting point for further investigation and action.

The analysis of primary care availability in Tarrs, within the context of hypertension management, reveals the importance of several key factors. A robust primary care infrastructure is essential for early detection, consistent monitoring, and effective treatment. The implementation of evidence-based guidelines, such as those from the American Heart Association, is crucial for ensuring high-quality care. These guidelines provide recommendations on blood pressure targets, medication choices, and lifestyle modifications.

Furthermore, patient education plays a vital role in hypertension control. Patients need to understand their condition, the importance of medication adherence, and the benefits of lifestyle changes. Practices that provide comprehensive patient education programs, including individual counseling, group classes, and educational materials, are more likely to achieve positive outcomes. This can involve registered dietitians or certified diabetes educators.

The effective management of hypertension also requires a focus on prevention. Public health initiatives that promote healthy lifestyles, such as healthy eating, regular physical activity, and smoking cessation, can help reduce the incidence of hypertension. Community-based programs, such as farmers' markets and walking trails, can provide opportunities for individuals to adopt healthy habits.

In conclusion, the 'Hypertension Score' for 15688 is likely influenced by the unique characteristics of the area, including its rural setting and potential limitations in healthcare resources. Addressing the challenges and improving the score requires a concerted effort from healthcare providers, public health officials, and community members. This involves increasing access to primary care, promoting the adoption of best practices, integrating telemedicine, and ensuring the availability of mental health resources.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in 15688, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to mental health resources, we recommend exploring the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. These maps can help you visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the local healthcare environment.