15773, Saint Benedict, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 15773, Saint Benedict, Pennsylvania is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.22 percent of the residents in 15773 has some form of health insurance. 48.32 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.70 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 15773 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 124 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15773. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 82 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 48 health care providers accessible to residents in 15773, Saint Benedict, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Saint Benedict, PA (ZIP Code 15773)

Analyzing the landscape of hypertension management in Saint Benedict, Pennsylvania, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis, focused on ZIP code 15773, examines the availability of primary care physicians, the quality of care delivered, and the resources available to patients for managing this prevalent condition. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare environment and offer insights for improvement.

The foundation of effective hypertension control rests on accessible and competent primary care. In Saint Benedict, the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial metric. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of primary care providers, can significantly hinder access to regular check-ups, medication management, and lifestyle counseling, all critical for hypertension control. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility, potentially leading to better patient outcomes. The specific physician-to-patient ratio within 15773 requires detailed research, ideally utilizing data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This data should be combined with information on physician specialization, ensuring that the available providers are appropriately trained and experienced in managing hypertension.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of care provided by primary care physicians is paramount. This involves assessing the practices' adherence to established guidelines for hypertension management, such as those published by the American Heart Association (AHA) and the American College of Cardiology (ACC). Key indicators include the frequency of blood pressure screenings, the use of evidence-based medications, and the provision of patient education on lifestyle modifications like diet, exercise, and stress management. Evaluating these factors requires gathering data from various sources. Patient satisfaction surveys, review websites, and quality-reporting initiatives can offer valuable insights into the patient experience and the effectiveness of care.

Standout practices in Saint Benedict could be identified by examining several key areas. Practices that excel in hypertension management often prioritize patient education, offering resources like pamphlets, online materials, and one-on-one counseling sessions. They may also implement patient-centered care models, such as team-based care, where nurses, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals collaborate to support patients. Furthermore, practices that actively engage in quality improvement initiatives, regularly monitoring patient outcomes and adjusting their practices based on data, are likely to demonstrate superior performance. Identifying these standout practices requires a thorough review of their processes and outcomes, which could be facilitated through interviews, site visits, and data analysis.

The adoption of telemedicine is another crucial factor to consider. Telemedicine, including virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and online patient portals, can significantly enhance access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas like Saint Benedict. It can reduce the need for in-person visits, making it easier for patients to receive regular check-ups and medication adjustments. Assessing the level of telemedicine adoption involves determining which practices offer virtual services, the types of services available, and the patient satisfaction with these services. Practices that embrace telemedicine are likely to improve patient convenience and adherence to treatment plans, ultimately contributing to better hypertension control.

The link between hypertension and mental health is well-established. Stress, anxiety, and depression can exacerbate hypertension, making it essential to address mental health concerns as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. The availability of mental health resources in Saint Benedict is therefore a critical component of this analysis. This includes assessing the number of psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists in the area, as well as the availability of mental health support groups and counseling services. Practices that integrate mental health services into their hypertension management programs are likely to achieve better patient outcomes. This could involve screening patients for mental health issues, providing referrals to mental health professionals, and offering stress-reduction techniques.

Analyzing the availability of pharmacies within the ZIP code is also important. Easy access to medication refills is crucial for maintaining consistent blood pressure control. The proximity of pharmacies, their operating hours, and their ability to provide medication counseling are all factors that can impact patient adherence to treatment. Furthermore, the availability of affordable medications, including generic options, is essential, especially for patients with limited financial resources.

Evaluating the overall healthcare environment in Saint Benedict requires a comprehensive understanding of the resources available to patients. This includes access to healthy food options, safe places to exercise, and community-based programs that promote healthy lifestyles. The presence of these resources can significantly impact a patient's ability to manage their hypertension effectively. For example, a community garden or a walking trail can provide opportunities for physical activity and healthy eating, while educational programs can empower patients to make informed choices about their health.

In conclusion, improving hypertension management in Saint Benedict, PA (15773) requires a multi-pronged approach. This includes ensuring adequate access to primary care physicians, promoting the adoption of evidence-based practices, integrating mental health services, and supporting patient education and lifestyle modifications. By addressing these key areas, the local healthcare community can significantly improve patient outcomes and reduce the burden of hypertension.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Saint Benedict, including the locations of physicians, pharmacies, and other relevant resources, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers a powerful platform for visualizing and analyzing geographic data, allowing you to identify areas with limited access to care and pinpoint opportunities for improvement.