15828, Clarington, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 15828, Clarington, Pennsylvania is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.68 percent of the residents in 15828 has some form of health insurance. 65.88 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 53.55 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 15828 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 27 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15828. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 79 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 231 health care providers accessible to residents in 15828, Clarington, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 15828 and Primary Care Availability in Clarington

Analyzing the landscape of healthcare, particularly concerning hypertension management, within a specific geographic area demands a multi-faceted approach. This analysis focuses on ZIP Code 15828, located within the broader context of Clarington, Pennsylvania, to assess the availability and quality of primary care services, with a particular emphasis on hypertension management. The aim is to provide a "Hypertension Score" based on various factors, offering insights into the region's strengths and weaknesses in this crucial area of public health.

Clarington, a rural community, faces unique challenges in healthcare access. Population density is a key factor influencing the availability of medical professionals. The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a fundamental metric. A low ratio indicates a potential strain on existing resources, leading to longer wait times for appointments and potentially impacting the frequency of follow-up care, critical for managing hypertension. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is the cornerstone of effective hypertension management. These physicians are responsible for initial diagnosis, ongoing monitoring, medication management, and lifestyle counseling.

Assessing the quality of care involves examining the practices of individual physicians and clinics. Are they adhering to the latest guidelines for hypertension treatment? Do they utilize evidence-based practices in their approach to patient care? This includes the use of standardized protocols for blood pressure measurement, the implementation of lifestyle interventions (dietary recommendations, exercise counseling), and the judicious use of antihypertensive medications. Data on patient outcomes, such as blood pressure control rates, can provide a valuable measure of the effectiveness of the care being provided. However, such data is often difficult to access due to patient privacy regulations.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial element. Telemedicine offers a potential solution to the geographic challenges faced by rural communities. It allows patients to access healthcare services remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to specialists. In the context of hypertension, telemedicine can facilitate remote blood pressure monitoring, medication adjustments, and virtual consultations. The extent to which physicians in 15828 have embraced telemedicine, and the types of services they offer remotely, will significantly impact the overall "Hypertension Score."

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to hypertension management. Stress and mental health conditions can significantly impact blood pressure. Patients with underlying mental health issues may experience challenges in adhering to treatment plans. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is therefore a vital component of comprehensive care. Integrated care models, where mental health services are integrated into primary care settings, are considered best practice.

Specific practices in 15828 should be evaluated based on their performance. Do any practices stand out in terms of their commitment to hypertension management? Are there any clinics that have implemented innovative programs, such as group education sessions, or that have achieved high blood pressure control rates? Identifying these standout practices can help to highlight best practices and serve as models for other providers in the region.

The assessment of hypertension management must also consider the availability of support services. This includes access to pharmacies, which are essential for medication fulfillment. The presence of certified diabetes educators and registered dietitians can further enhance patient care by providing specialized support in lifestyle modification. Community resources, such as support groups and educational programs, can also play a role in empowering patients to take control of their health.

The "Hypertension Score" for 15828 and Clarington would be a composite metric, reflecting the physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, the quality of care provided by local practices, and the availability of support services. A higher score would indicate better access to care, a higher quality of care, and a more comprehensive approach to hypertension management. A lower score would highlight areas where improvements are needed.

The analysis should also consider any disparities in healthcare access within the ZIP Code. Are there differences in access to care based on socioeconomic status, race, or ethnicity? Addressing health disparities is crucial for ensuring that all residents have an equal opportunity to achieve optimal health outcomes.

Data collection for this analysis would involve several steps. Publicly available data sources, such as the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and the Pennsylvania Department of Health, can provide information on physician supply, hospital utilization, and health outcomes. Surveys of local physicians and clinics can gather information on their practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of support services. Patient feedback, through surveys or focus groups, can provide valuable insights into their experiences with healthcare.

The final "Hypertension Score" should be presented in a clear and concise format, with supporting data and analysis. The report should identify areas of strength and weakness, and provide recommendations for improvement. These recommendations might include strategies to increase the number of primary care physicians in the area, to expand the adoption of telemedicine, to integrate mental health services into primary care settings, and to implement evidence-based practices for hypertension management.

The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of hypertension management in 15828 and Clarington, and to identify opportunities to improve the health and well-being of the community. This analysis is intended to be a starting point for ongoing efforts to address the challenges of hypertension and to promote a healthier future for all residents.

This analysis, while offering a detailed assessment, is limited by the availability of data. A complete picture of the healthcare landscape requires access to comprehensive datasets, including patient-level information. However, even with these limitations, this analysis provides a valuable framework for understanding the challenges and opportunities in hypertension management in 15828 and Clarington.

To visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, the location of physicians, and the demographics of the population, explore CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a powerful visual representation of the data, allowing you to identify areas of need and to better understand the healthcare landscape of Clarington and beyond.