15725, Clarksburg, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 15725, Clarksburg, Pennsylvania is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.05 percent of the residents in 15725 has some form of health insurance. 41.09 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 77.03 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 15725 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 246 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15725. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 281 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,571 health care providers accessible to residents in 15725, Clarksburg, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Clarksburg, PA (ZIP Code 15725)

Analyzing the landscape of hypertension care within Clarksburg, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15725) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers various factors, from physician availability to the integration of innovative care models, to provide a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" assessment. The goal is to gauge the community's capacity to effectively manage and mitigate the risks associated with hypertension.

The foundation of effective hypertension management rests on accessible primary care. In Clarksburg, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical determinant of the Hypertension Score. Data regarding physician-to-patient ratios provides a crucial insight. If the ratio reveals a shortage of PCPs relative to the population, the Hypertension Score will be negatively impacted. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced opportunities for preventative care, and ultimately, delayed diagnosis and treatment of hypertension.

Beyond sheer numbers, the distribution of PCPs within the ZIP code is also significant. Are practices concentrated in one area, leaving other sections of Clarksburg underserved? Uneven distribution exacerbates access challenges for residents who may face transportation barriers or reside in geographically isolated areas. The presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or other safety-net providers can positively influence the score by increasing access for vulnerable populations.

Examining the practices themselves is essential. Are practices actively screening patients for hypertension during routine check-ups? Do they employ standardized protocols for blood pressure measurement and follow evidence-based guidelines for treatment? The implementation of electronic health records (EHRs) and their utilization for population health management, including hypertension control, is another key factor. EHRs facilitate data tracking, medication management, and patient communication, all of which contribute to improved outcomes.

Standout practices within the community deserve recognition. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to excellence in hypertension care often exhibit specific characteristics. These may include a dedicated team of nurses and medical assistants trained in hypertension management, the use of patient education materials, and regular monitoring of patient blood pressure control rates. Furthermore, proactive outreach programs, such as reminders for medication refills and follow-up appointments, can significantly improve patient adherence to treatment plans.

Telemedicine adoption presents a significant opportunity to enhance the Hypertension Score. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, which is particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication adjustments, and lifestyle counseling. It can overcome geographical barriers and improve access for patients with mobility limitations. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, particularly for hypertension management, will receive a higher score, reflecting their commitment to patient convenience and improved care.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to hypertension management. Chronic stress and mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression, can contribute to elevated blood pressure. The availability of mental health services, either within primary care practices or through referrals to external providers, is therefore a crucial component of the Hypertension Score. Practices that integrate mental health screening and treatment into their hypertension care protocols demonstrate a more holistic approach to patient well-being.

The integration of other allied health professionals, such as registered dietitians and certified diabetes educators, also elevates the score. These professionals can provide specialized guidance on lifestyle modifications, including diet and exercise, which are vital components of hypertension management. Collaborative care models, where PCPs work in tandem with these specialists, can lead to improved patient outcomes.

Patient education is a cornerstone of effective hypertension control. Practices that provide patients with comprehensive information about their condition, treatment options, and lifestyle modifications will receive a higher score. This includes providing educational materials, offering group classes, and utilizing patient portals for communication and information sharing.

The availability of pharmacy services is another important consideration. Access to local pharmacies that offer medication counseling and blood pressure monitoring services can improve patient adherence to treatment and facilitate timely interventions. The convenience of pharmacy access, coupled with the pharmacist's role in patient education, contributes to the overall Hypertension Score.

The overall Hypertension Score for Clarksburg (ZIP Code 15725) is a composite measure reflecting the interplay of all these factors. A high score indicates a community with robust primary care access, proactive practices, and a commitment to patient-centered care. Conversely, a low score signals areas for improvement, such as addressing physician shortages, promoting telemedicine adoption, and expanding mental health resources.

To gain a visual understanding of the distribution of healthcare resources and patient needs within Clarksburg and the surrounding areas, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps offer a powerful tool for visualizing the geographic distribution of healthcare providers, demographic data, and health outcomes. They can help identify areas with the greatest need for improved hypertension care and inform targeted interventions.