15825, Brookville, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 15825, Brookville, Pennsylvania is 84 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.05 percent of the residents in 15825 has some form of health insurance. 39.75 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.39 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 15825 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,994 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15825. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,818 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,273 health care providers accessible to residents in 15825, Brookville, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Brookville, PA (ZIP Code 15825)

Brookville, Pennsylvania, nestled in Jefferson County, presents a unique healthcare landscape. Analyzing the availability of primary care physicians and their approach to hypertension management within the 15825 ZIP code reveals a complex picture. A "Hypertension Score," reflecting factors critical to effective hypertension control, can be developed, providing insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem. This analysis will consider physician-to-patient ratios, prominent practices, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in managing a chronic condition like hypertension.

The foundation of any hypertension management strategy rests on accessible primary care. In Brookville, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical starting point. Publicly available data, such as that from the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA), can be used to estimate this ratio. A low ratio (fewer physicians per population) suggests potential challenges in securing timely appointments and consistent care. This scarcity can lead to delayed diagnoses, infrequent follow-up visits, and ultimately, poorer hypertension control. Conversely, a higher ratio, although not guaranteeing optimal care, indicates a greater likelihood of readily available appointments and more proactive patient management.

Several primary care practices operate within or serve the 15825 ZIP code. Identifying standout practices involves assessing their commitment to hypertension management protocols. This can be done by looking at their adherence to national guidelines, such as those from the American Heart Association (AHA) and the American College of Cardiology (ACC). Practices that routinely measure blood pressure accurately, employ lifestyle counseling, and prescribe appropriate medications are crucial. Furthermore, the use of electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient data, generate reminders, and facilitate communication is a key indicator of a practice's commitment to proactive care.

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool in hypertension management, particularly in rural areas like Brookville. Its adoption by local primary care practices is a significant factor in the Hypertension Score. Telemedicine allows for remote blood pressure monitoring, virtual consultations, and medication management, expanding access to care and reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. Practices that embrace telemedicine can reach a wider patient base, improve medication adherence through virtual check-ins, and provide timely interventions. The availability of user-friendly platforms and the integration of telehealth into the existing workflow are key considerations when evaluating telemedicine adoption.

Hypertension often co-exists with mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression. These conditions can significantly impact a patient's ability to manage their hypertension effectively. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the Brookville community is an integral part of the Hypertension Score. This includes access to psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and support groups. Practices that integrate mental health screening and referral processes into their hypertension management protocols demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health professionals is crucial for addressing the complex needs of patients with hypertension and co-existing mental health challenges.

The Hypertension Score also considers the availability of resources such as patient education materials, community health programs, and access to affordable medications. Practices that actively engage in patient education, providing information on lifestyle modifications, medication adherence, and self-monitoring techniques, contribute to better patient outcomes. Collaboration with local pharmacies and community organizations to ensure access to affordable medications and support programs is another positive indicator. These efforts empower patients to take an active role in their own health management.

The analysis of the 15825 ZIP code also considers the impact of socioeconomic factors. Poverty, limited access to healthy food options, and lack of transportation can all create barriers to effective hypertension management. Practices that are aware of these social determinants of health and proactively address them through referrals to social services, food banks, and transportation assistance programs demonstrate a commitment to equitable care.

The evaluation of the Hypertension Score involves gathering data from various sources. Publicly available information, such as physician directories and hospital websites, can be used to assess the number of primary care physicians and their specialties. Patient reviews, online surveys, and feedback from community members can provide valuable insights into the quality of care and patient experiences. Data from healthcare providers, such as EHR data and practice management systems, can be used to assess adherence to guidelines, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health services.

The final Hypertension Score is a composite measure that reflects the overall quality of hypertension management within the 15825 ZIP code. It takes into account the physician-to-patient ratio, the commitment of primary care practices to evidence-based guidelines, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, the provision of patient education, and the awareness of social determinants of health. A higher score indicates a more favorable healthcare environment for hypertension management, while a lower score highlights areas where improvements are needed.

In conclusion, assessing hypertension management in Brookville, PA (15825) requires a multi-faceted approach. The physician-to-patient ratio, the practices' adherence to guidelines, telemedicine integration, mental health support, and community resources are all essential. The development of a comprehensive Hypertension Score allows for a detailed evaluation of the healthcare landscape, providing valuable insights for patients, healthcare providers, and community stakeholders.

To visualize the healthcare landscape of Brookville, PA, and explore the distribution of primary care providers, pharmacies, and other relevant resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive and informative maps that can help you understand the geographic distribution of healthcare services and identify potential gaps in care.