15739, Ernest, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 15739, Ernest, Pennsylvania is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.80 percent of the residents in 15739 has some form of health insurance. 52.32 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.86 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 15739 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 88 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15739. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 74 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,462 health care providers accessible to residents in 15739, Ernest, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Ernest, PA (ZIP Code 15739)

Analyzing the landscape of hypertension care within Ernest, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15739) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis, focusing on primary care availability and related resources, aims to provide a "Hypertension Score" assessment, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement. The score isn't a single number but a holistic evaluation based on several key indicators.

The foundation of effective hypertension management rests on accessible primary care. Ernest, a small community, likely faces challenges common to rural areas, including potential shortages of primary care physicians. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is critical. National averages offer a benchmark, but the specific ratio within 15739, calculated by dividing the number of active primary care physicians (PCPs) by the total population, will reveal the initial pressure on the system. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, suggests potential difficulties in securing timely appointments and consistent care. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the US Census Bureau will be used to determine this ratio.

The availability of primary care providers is only one piece of the puzzle. The geographic distribution of these providers within Ernest is also crucial. Are the existing PCPs centrally located, or are there pockets of the community with limited access due to distance or transportation challenges? This requires mapping the locations of practices and considering the demographic distribution of the population. Areas with significant elderly populations or those with limited mobility would be particularly vulnerable to access issues.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality and breadth of services offered by primary care practices are vital. Do practices in Ernest actively screen for hypertension during routine checkups? Are they equipped with the necessary diagnostic tools, such as automated blood pressure monitors and access to laboratory services for blood work? Furthermore, do they have established protocols for hypertension management, including medication management, lifestyle counseling, and regular follow-up appointments? Practices that demonstrate a commitment to these best practices would receive higher marks in our assessment.

Identifying "standout practices" within 15739 requires a deeper dive. This involves researching the practices themselves. This research may include online reviews, patient testimonials, and information from local healthcare networks. Practices that demonstrate a patient-centered approach, offer extended hours, or have a strong track record of hypertension control rates should be highlighted. These practices can serve as models for others in the community.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, offers a significant opportunity to improve access to care, particularly in rural areas where geographical barriers exist. Practices in Ernest that offer telemedicine consultations for hypertension management, including medication refills, blood pressure monitoring guidance, and virtual follow-up appointments, would receive a positive evaluation. The ease of use of the telemedicine platform, its integration with existing patient portals, and the availability of technical support for patients are also important considerations.

The link between mental health and hypertension is well-established. Chronic stress and mental health conditions can significantly impact blood pressure. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within Ernest is a crucial component of our analysis. Do primary care practices have integrated mental health services, such as on-site therapists or partnerships with local mental health providers? Are there readily accessible mental health resources in the community, such as support groups or counseling services? Practices that recognize the importance of mental health and provide or facilitate access to these resources would be seen favorably.

The "Hypertension Score" will also consider the availability of patient education resources. Do practices provide patients with educational materials about hypertension, including information on lifestyle modifications such as diet, exercise, and stress management? Are there programs to help patients understand their medications and adhere to their treatment plans? Practices that actively engage in patient education and empowerment will be highly regarded.

The analysis also considers the availability of pharmacy services. Easy access to pharmacies for medication refills is essential for hypertension management. Are there pharmacies located within Ernest, or do residents need to travel to neighboring communities to fill their prescriptions? The pharmacy's ability to offer medication synchronization programs, which allow patients to pick up all their medications at the same time each month, is also a positive factor.

Finally, the analysis will consider the presence of community health initiatives related to hypertension. Are there any local programs or organizations that are actively working to raise awareness about hypertension, promote healthy lifestyles, or provide support to individuals with hypertension? These initiatives can play a vital role in improving community health outcomes.

In conclusion, the "Hypertension Score" for Ernest, PA (15739) will be a comprehensive assessment that considers all these factors. This analysis will provide valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system and highlight areas where improvements are needed. This analysis, however, is only a snapshot in time. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. For a dynamic and interactive view of the healthcare landscape in Ernest, including physician locations, patient demographics, and other relevant data, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps.