15824, Brockway, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 15824, Brockway, Pennsylvania is 80 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.62 percent of the residents in 15824 has some form of health insurance. 41.43 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.73 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 15824 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,112 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15824. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,110 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,700 health care providers accessible to residents in 15824, Brockway, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Brockway, PA (ZIP Code 15824)

Analyzing healthcare access and quality within Brockway, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15824) necessitates a multi-faceted approach, particularly concerning hypertension management. This analysis will examine primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, notable practices, telemedicine integration, and mental health resources, culminating in a proposed "Hypertension Score" ranking. This score aims to provide a snapshot of the community's preparedness to address this prevalent health issue.

The foundation of effective hypertension management rests on accessible primary care. Brockway, a small community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in this regard. Determining the exact number of practicing primary care physicians within the ZIP code is crucial. This information, combined with the total population, allows for the calculation of a physician-to-patient ratio. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, could signal potential access limitations. This ratio is a critical component of the Hypertension Score.

Beyond simple numbers, the distribution of primary care providers is vital. Are these physicians concentrated in a single practice, or are they spread across several locations, including any satellite clinics? The presence of a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) or similar community health organization would significantly impact the score, as these often cater to underserved populations and offer sliding-scale fees, making care more accessible. The geographic distribution of practices within the ZIP code and surrounding areas also influences access, particularly for individuals with limited transportation options.

Identifying standout practices requires examining their patient care models. Do they offer extended hours, weekend appointments, or same-day availability for urgent needs? Do they actively participate in population health initiatives, such as chronic disease management programs specifically targeting hypertension? The use of electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals is also a key indicator. EHRs facilitate data tracking, medication management, and communication between providers, while patient portals empower individuals to monitor their blood pressure readings, access educational materials, and communicate with their care teams. These practices would contribute positively to the Hypertension Score.

Telemedicine adoption is rapidly changing healthcare delivery, especially in rural areas. The availability of telehealth appointments for hypertension management can significantly improve access to care, especially for those with mobility limitations or residing in geographically isolated areas. This includes virtual consultations for medication adjustments, lifestyle counseling, and remote blood pressure monitoring. Practices actively utilizing telehealth platforms will receive a higher score, recognizing their commitment to innovative care models. The ease of use and accessibility of these platforms for patients is also a crucial factor.

The intricate link between mental health and hypertension is well-established. Stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure levels and adherence to treatment plans. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the community is a critical factor in the Hypertension Score. This includes access to mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices, such as co-located behavioral health providers, is highly desirable. The presence of community-based mental health support groups and educational programs also contributes positively to the score.

Calculating the Hypertension Score involves assigning weighted values to each of these factors: physician-to-patient ratio, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resource availability. The score could be scaled from 1 to 10, with 1 representing the lowest level of preparedness and 10 representing the highest. A low score might indicate limited access to primary care, a lack of telemedicine options, and inadequate mental health support, while a high score would reflect a robust healthcare infrastructure capable of effectively managing hypertension.

For example, a practice offering comprehensive hypertension management programs, including regular blood pressure monitoring, medication management, and lifestyle counseling, would receive a higher score. The integration of mental health services within the practice would further enhance its score. Conversely, a practice with limited resources and no telemedicine options would receive a lower score. The final score would be a composite representation of the community's ability to address hypertension effectively.

The final analysis would provide a detailed assessment of the healthcare landscape in Brockway, PA, highlighting strengths and weaknesses in hypertension management. This would include identifying areas for improvement, such as increasing the number of primary care physicians, expanding telemedicine services, and enhancing access to mental health resources. This information could be used by healthcare providers, community organizations, and policymakers to develop targeted interventions and improve the overall health of the community.

The Hypertension Score is not merely a number; it's a reflection of the community's commitment to health. It provides a framework for evaluating and improving healthcare access and quality, ultimately leading to better health outcomes for residents of Brockway. The availability of comprehensive, accessible, and integrated healthcare services is paramount in combating hypertension and improving the overall well-being of the community.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in Brockway and gain a deeper understanding of the factors influencing the Hypertension Score, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, practice characteristics, and other relevant data points, offering valuable insights into healthcare access and availability.