15904, Johnstown, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 15904, Johnstown, Pennsylvania is 81 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.57 percent of the residents in 15904 has some form of health insurance. 36.51 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.46 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 15904 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,916 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15904. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,072 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,046 health care providers accessible to residents in 15904, Johnstown, Pennsylvania.

The following analysis examines the landscape of hypertension care within the 15904 ZIP code, focusing on Johnstown, Pennsylvania, and its primary care resources. This evaluation considers factors crucial for managing hypertension, including physician availability, practice characteristics, and the integration of innovative healthcare solutions.

The initial assessment centers on physician-to-patient ratios. Determining the exact number of primary care physicians (PCPs) actively practicing within 15904 is critical. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) must be consulted. This data needs to be cross-referenced with population figures for the 15904 ZIP code. A low physician-to-patient ratio, signifying fewer PCPs per capita, could indicate challenges in accessing timely appointments and ongoing care for those with hypertension. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility. However, the ratio alone doesn't paint a complete picture.

The quality of care is paramount. This necessitates evaluating the practices themselves. Factors to consider include the use of electronic health records (EHRs), a cornerstone of modern healthcare. EHRs facilitate efficient data management, medication reconciliation, and the ability to track patient progress against hypertension management goals. Practices with robust EHR systems often demonstrate better patient outcomes. Another key metric is the availability of on-site diagnostic equipment, such as blood pressure monitors and potentially electrocardiogram (ECG) machines. This minimizes the need for external referrals and streamlines the diagnostic process.

Standout practices within 15904 warrant special attention. Identifying those that consistently achieve positive patient outcomes in hypertension management is crucial. This requires analyzing data related to blood pressure control rates, patient satisfaction scores, and adherence to evidence-based guidelines. The National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) provides accreditation programs that can serve as indicators of quality. Practices achieving high marks in these areas should be highlighted as models for others to emulate. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to patient education, lifestyle modification counseling, and proactive follow-up care.

Telemedicine adoption is a significant factor in modern healthcare. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and medication management through telehealth platforms can enhance accessibility, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in underserved areas. Assessing the extent of telemedicine integration within 15904 is vital. Practices that have embraced telemedicine may be better positioned to provide continuous care and manage hypertension effectively.

Mental health resources are also crucial. Hypertension and mental health are often intertwined. Chronic stress and anxiety can contribute to elevated blood pressure. Therefore, the availability of mental health services, either within primary care practices or through readily accessible referrals, is a critical component of comprehensive hypertension management. Practices that integrate behavioral health specialists or have established referral pathways to mental health providers are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients.

The analysis also considers insurance acceptance. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicare, Medicaid, and various private insurance providers, are more accessible to a diverse patient population. Limited insurance acceptance can create barriers to care, particularly for those with limited financial resources.

Furthermore, the availability of patient education materials and resources is essential. Practices that provide patients with clear, concise information about hypertension, lifestyle modifications, and medication management empower patients to actively participate in their own care. These resources can include pamphlets, online portals, or group education sessions.

The analysis must also consider the age and experience of the physicians. While newer physicians may bring fresh perspectives and technological expertise, experienced physicians often have a deeper understanding of the nuances of hypertension management and the complexities of patient care. A mix of experience levels within a practice can be beneficial.

The physical infrastructure of the practices is also important. Clean, well-maintained facilities that are easily accessible for patients with disabilities contribute to a positive healthcare experience. Adequate parking, convenient hours, and a welcoming atmosphere are all factors that can influence patient satisfaction and adherence to care plans.

The overall goal of this analysis is to provide a comprehensive overview of the hypertension care landscape within 15904. It aims to identify strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement. This information can be used by patients to make informed decisions about their healthcare, by healthcare providers to benchmark their performance, and by policymakers to identify areas where resources are needed.

To gain a visual understanding of the distribution of these resources and to pinpoint areas of need, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can visually represent the data collected, highlighting physician locations, practice characteristics, and resource availability within the 15904 ZIP code. This visualization allows for a more intuitive understanding of the healthcare landscape and can be a valuable tool for patients, providers, and policymakers.