15770, Ringgold, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 15770, Ringgold, Pennsylvania is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.35 percent of the residents in 15770 has some form of health insurance. 68.23 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 54.17 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 15770 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 18 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15770. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 81 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 265 health care providers accessible to residents in 15770, Ringgold, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: 15770 Physicians and Ringgold Primary Care

Analyzing healthcare access and quality, especially regarding hypertension management, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis focuses on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) in Ringgold, Pennsylvania, and the practices of doctors within the 15770 ZIP code, aiming to provide a "Hypertension Score" assessment. This score, though not a formal metric, reflects the overall preparedness of the local healthcare system to effectively address and manage hypertension.

The first crucial element is physician availability. Ringgold, a relatively rural area, likely faces challenges common to such regions: physician shortages and geographical limitations. To accurately assess this, we need to estimate the physician-to-patient ratio. National averages provide a baseline, but local data is paramount. Information from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, local hospital systems (like Indiana Regional Medical Center, if applicable), and potentially county health departments are essential. This data would reveal the number of PCPs actively practicing within Ringgold or readily accessible to Ringgold residents.

Furthermore, the patient population of Ringgold needs to be considered. The age distribution, prevalence of chronic conditions (including hypertension), and socioeconomic factors significantly impact healthcare demand. If a large segment of the population is elderly or has pre-existing health issues, the need for PCPs and specialized care increases. Without this data, the physician-to-patient ratio alone is insufficient.

Beyond raw numbers, accessibility is critical. Are physicians accepting new patients? What is the average wait time for an appointment? Are practices located in easily accessible areas, or are transportation barriers a concern? Addressing these questions provides a more nuanced understanding of primary care accessibility.

Focusing on the 15770 ZIP code, which encompasses a portion of Ringgold, provides a localized view of physician practices. Examining the practices within this area reveals crucial details about hypertension management. We need to assess the practices' commitment to evidence-based guidelines. This includes evaluating their use of standardized protocols for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care for hypertension. Do they routinely measure blood pressure accurately? Do they utilize the latest pharmacological and lifestyle recommendations?

Another key aspect is the adoption of telemedicine. Telemedicine offers a valuable tool, especially in rural areas, to improve access to care. Does the practice offer virtual consultations for follow-up appointments, medication management, or patient education? Telemedicine can significantly reduce the burden on patients, particularly those with mobility issues or transportation challenges, improving adherence to treatment plans. Practices that embrace telemedicine are likely to score higher on our "Hypertension Score."

The availability of mental health resources is another crucial factor. Hypertension and mental health are often intertwined. Stress, anxiety, and depression can exacerbate hypertension, and conversely, the condition itself can contribute to mental health challenges. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through on-site providers or readily available referrals, demonstrate a more holistic approach to patient care. This integration is crucial for effective hypertension management.

Standout practices within the 15770 ZIP code can be identified by their commitment to patient-centered care, use of technology, and community engagement. These practices may have implemented innovative programs, such as patient education classes, support groups, or remote monitoring systems. They may also actively participate in community health initiatives, raising awareness about hypertension and promoting healthy lifestyles. Identifying these "best-practice" examples provides valuable insights into effective strategies for hypertension management.

Analyzing patient satisfaction is also important. Reviewing patient feedback, through online reviews, surveys, or patient testimonials, offers a valuable perspective on the quality of care. Do patients feel heard and respected? Are they satisfied with the communication from their physicians and the overall experience? Patient satisfaction is a key indicator of a practice's success in providing effective and compassionate care.

Furthermore, the availability of ancillary services, such as laboratory testing and pharmacy services, within the 15770 ZIP code is crucial. Convenient access to these services streamlines the diagnostic and treatment process, improving patient adherence and outcomes. Practices located near these services are more likely to provide a comprehensive approach to hypertension management.

The analysis of Ringgold's primary care availability and the practices within 15770 will provide a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" assessment. This score is not a single number but a composite evaluation based on physician-to-patient ratios, accessibility, telemedicine adoption, mental health integration, and patient satisfaction. The practices that demonstrate a commitment to evidence-based guidelines, patient-centered care, and technological innovation will receive higher scores.

To visualize and explore this data further, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and interactive way to visualize physician locations, patient demographics, and healthcare resources within the 15770 ZIP code and surrounding areas. They can help identify areas with limited access to care and highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system.

By visualizing the data, stakeholders can identify areas for improvement and develop targeted interventions to enhance hypertension management in Ringgold and the 15770 ZIP code.