15870, Wilcox, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 15870, Wilcox, Pennsylvania is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.12 percent of the residents in 15870 has some form of health insurance. 38.03 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.78 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 15870 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 245 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15870. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 285 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 431 health care providers accessible to residents in 15870, Wilcox, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Wilcox, PA (ZIP Code 15870)

Wilcox, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of Elk County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when assessing hypertension management within its primary care landscape. This analysis, focusing on ZIP Code 15870, aims to provide a comprehensive 'Hypertension Score' evaluation, considering factors like physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and access to mental health resources. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare ecosystem and identify areas for improvement.

The foundation of any successful hypertension management program lies in the accessibility of primary care physicians. In Wilcox, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. Data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health, the US Census Bureau, and publicly available physician directories will be crucial to determining this ratio. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of physicians, can significantly hinder timely diagnosis, treatment initiation, and ongoing monitoring of hypertension. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater access to care, potentially leading to better patient outcomes. This analysis will delve into the specific numbers, comparing the physician-to-patient ratio in 15870 to both state and national averages. This comparison provides a benchmark to assess the relative availability of primary care services.

Beyond sheer numbers, the operational aspects of primary care practices in Wilcox play a significant role. The analysis will examine the patient volume each practice manages, the types of insurance accepted, and the availability of extended hours or weekend appointments. Practices that offer convenient access, such as extended hours or same-day appointments, are more likely to facilitate early detection and consistent management of hypertension. Conversely, practices with limited hours or long wait times can create barriers to care, particularly for individuals with busy schedules or those facing transportation challenges. The assessment will also consider the practice's commitment to preventative care, including the frequency of blood pressure screenings, patient education initiatives, and the use of electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient data and facilitate communication.

Identifying standout practices is essential for highlighting best practices and potential models for improvement. This involves evaluating practices that demonstrate a strong commitment to hypertension management. This analysis will look for practices that have implemented evidence-based guidelines for hypertension treatment, such as those recommended by the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology. We will also assess the practice's use of patient-centered care models, such as team-based care, where nurses, medical assistants, and other healthcare professionals collaborate with physicians to provide comprehensive support to patients. Practices that actively engage patients in their care, through shared decision-making and self-management education, are more likely to achieve positive outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and medication management through telemedicine can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas like Wilcox. This analysis will investigate the extent to which primary care practices in 15870 have embraced telemedicine. We will assess the availability of virtual appointments, the use of remote blood pressure monitoring devices, and the integration of telehealth platforms into the practice's workflow. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine can provide more convenient and accessible care, particularly for patients with mobility issues or those living in remote locations.

The link between mental health and hypertension is well-established. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can contribute to elevated blood pressure and make it more difficult to manage the condition. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources in Wilcox is a crucial component of the 'Hypertension Score' analysis. This assessment will examine the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, in the local area. We will also assess the integration of mental health services into primary care practices, such as the availability of on-site counseling or referrals to mental health specialists. Practices that recognize the importance of mental health and provide access to these resources are better equipped to address the holistic needs of patients with hypertension.

Furthermore, the analysis will consider the availability of community resources that support hypertension management. This includes access to healthy food options, exercise facilities, and patient education programs. The presence of these resources can empower patients to make lifestyle changes that can help lower their blood pressure. We will also assess the level of community awareness regarding hypertension, including the availability of public health campaigns and educational materials.

Finally, the 'Hypertension Score' will be based on a weighted average of the factors discussed above. The weights assigned to each factor will reflect their relative importance in achieving optimal hypertension management. For example, physician availability and the adoption of evidence-based guidelines might be given higher weights than the availability of extended hours. The resulting score will provide a comprehensive assessment of the primary care landscape in Wilcox, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement.

The analysis will culminate in a concise summary of findings, identifying the strengths and weaknesses of the primary care system in Wilcox, PA, in terms of hypertension management. It will offer specific recommendations for improvement, such as increasing physician recruitment, promoting telemedicine adoption, and expanding access to mental health resources. This information will be valuable for healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members who are committed to improving the health of the residents of Wilcox.

To visualize and further explore the data presented in this analysis, we encourage you to utilize the powerful mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. CartoChrome's interactive maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, access to care, and other relevant data points, allowing for a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Wilcox and beyond.