15689, United, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 15689, United, Pennsylvania is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 15689 has some form of health insurance. 55.37 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.86 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 15689 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 9 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15689. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 45 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,525 health care providers accessible to residents in 15689, United, Pennsylvania.

This analysis assesses hypertension management capabilities within ZIP Code 15689, focusing on primary care physician (PCP) availability and related resources in the United States. It aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape, considering factors crucial for effective hypertension control. The goal is to offer a perspective on the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem, particularly concerning patient access and the availability of supportive services.

The foundation of effective hypertension management lies in accessible primary care. ZIP Code 15689's healthcare environment is evaluated through the lens of physician-to-patient ratios. Publicly available data, such as those from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or state medical boards, can be utilized to calculate these ratios. A high physician-to-patient ratio suggests potential challenges in securing timely appointments and comprehensive care. Conversely, a lower ratio indicates greater accessibility. The analysis considers the density of PCPs, including internal medicine physicians, family practitioners, and geriatricians, all of whom play a critical role in hypertension diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care is assessed. This involves examining the presence of nationally recognized accreditations, such as those from the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA). Practices with such accreditations often demonstrate a commitment to evidence-based medicine and patient-centered care. The presence of certified diabetes educators (CDEs) or other specialists within primary care practices is also considered, as these professionals can provide vital support for patients with hypertension and related conditions. The availability of on-site laboratory services for blood pressure monitoring and medication management is another crucial factor.

Standout practices within ZIP Code 15689 are identified based on their demonstrated commitment to hypertension management. This includes practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, such as those focused on blood pressure control rates. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient data and implement clinical decision support tools are also highlighted. The adoption of patient-centered care models, such as shared medical appointments or team-based care, is another indicator of a high-performing practice. These models often improve patient engagement and adherence to treatment plans.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for hypertension management, particularly in rural or underserved areas. The analysis assesses the adoption of telemedicine services by PCPs within ZIP Code 15689. This includes the availability of virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and online patient portals. Practices that offer telemedicine can improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. The integration of telemedicine into routine care workflows is a key indicator of its effectiveness.

Mental health is intrinsically linked to hypertension. Stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure control. The analysis evaluates the availability of mental health resources within the local healthcare ecosystem. This includes the presence of on-site mental health professionals within primary care practices, as well as referrals to external mental health providers. The integration of mental health screening and treatment into primary care workflows is a crucial aspect of comprehensive hypertension management.

The analysis considers the availability of patient education resources. Practices that provide patients with educational materials on hypertension, lifestyle modifications, and medication management are considered favorably. This includes the availability of written materials, online resources, and group education sessions. Patient education empowers individuals to actively participate in their own care and improve their blood pressure control. The use of multilingual resources is also considered, particularly in areas with diverse populations.

The availability of ancillary services is also assessed. This includes access to registered dietitians, exercise specialists, and pharmacists. These professionals can provide valuable support for patients with hypertension. The integration of these services into the primary care setting can improve patient outcomes. The analysis considers the ease of access to these services and the degree to which they are integrated into the overall care plan.

The analysis also considers the affordability of care. This includes the acceptance of various insurance plans, the availability of financial assistance programs, and the cost of medications. Practices that are transparent about their pricing and offer affordable care options are considered favorably. The analysis also considers the availability of generic medications and the use of medication management tools to help patients save money.

The analysis considers the role of community resources in hypertension management. This includes the availability of community health centers, support groups, and other resources that can provide patients with additional support. The analysis considers the degree to which PCPs are connected to these community resources and refer patients to them when appropriate. Collaboration between healthcare providers and community organizations is essential for improving hypertension control.

The analysis considers the role of technology in hypertension management. This includes the use of remote blood pressure monitoring devices, smartphone apps, and other technologies that can help patients track their blood pressure and adhere to their treatment plans. The analysis considers the degree to which PCPs are utilizing these technologies and recommending them to their patients. The integration of technology into the overall care plan can improve patient engagement and outcomes.

The analysis concludes with a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare landscape in ZIP Code 15689, focusing on primary care availability and resources for hypertension management. It provides a nuanced understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem, highlighting the areas where improvements are needed. This information is valuable for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers alike.

For a visual representation of this data and a deeper dive into the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping tools that can visualize physician locations, practice characteristics, and other relevant data, offering a powerful way to understand the healthcare landscape and identify areas for improvement.