15924, Cairnbrook, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 15924, Cairnbrook, Pennsylvania is 94 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.41 percent of the residents in 15924 has some form of health insurance. 45.92 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.31 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 15924 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 233 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15924. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 219 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,782 health care providers accessible to residents in 15924, Cairnbrook, Pennsylvania.

The analysis below evaluates hypertension management capabilities within ZIP code 15924, focusing on Cairnbrook, Pennsylvania, and its primary care landscape. This assessment considers factors crucial to effective hypertension control, including physician accessibility, practice characteristics, technology integration, and mental health support, ultimately generating a hypothetical “Hypertension Score” reflecting the area's strengths and weaknesses.

Cairnbrook, a small community, likely faces challenges common to rural areas regarding healthcare access. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical starting point. A low ratio, indicative of fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced opportunities for preventative care, and difficulty in managing chronic conditions like hypertension. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) or state medical boards could provide an estimate of the physician-to-population ratio within the ZIP code. This ratio, alongside data on the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) actively practicing in Cairnbrook, forms the foundation for understanding accessibility.

The availability of primary care is paramount. Primary care physicians are the gatekeepers to healthcare, responsible for initial diagnoses, ongoing management of chronic conditions, and referrals to specialists when needed. The number of PCPs accepting new patients, their office hours, and their proximity to residents all contribute to the overall “Hypertension Score.” Practices located within Cairnbrook or nearby towns would score higher than those requiring significant travel. Practices with extended hours, including evening or weekend availability, would also be favorably assessed, as they cater to diverse patient schedules.

Standout practices, if any, deserve specific recognition. These might be practices that demonstrate exemplary hypertension management through patient outcomes, adherence to clinical guidelines, or innovative approaches. This could be evaluated through publically available quality metrics (if available), patient reviews, or practice websites. For example, a practice that consistently achieves high rates of blood pressure control among its hypertensive patients would receive a higher score. Practices with dedicated hypertension management programs, including patient education, medication management support, and regular follow-up appointments, would also be highly regarded.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine offers a means of expanding access to care, reducing travel burdens, and facilitating remote monitoring of blood pressure. Practices that offer telehealth appointments for hypertension management, including medication refills, blood pressure monitoring guidance, and virtual consultations, would significantly improve their “Hypertension Score.” The ease of use of the telehealth platform, its integration with electronic health records, and the availability of technical support for patients are all important considerations.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to hypertension management. Stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure and adherence to treatment plans. The availability of mental health services within the community or through referral networks is therefore critical. Practices that have integrated mental health professionals into their care teams or have established strong referral relationships with mental health providers would receive a higher score. This could involve on-site therapists, psychiatrists, or partnerships with local mental health clinics. Access to mental health support, whether in-person or through telehealth, directly influences the ability of patients to manage their hypertension effectively.

The “Hypertension Score” would be a composite measure. It would weigh the factors discussed above, assigning points based on their relative importance. For example, a high physician-to-patient ratio would negatively impact the score, while the presence of a dedicated hypertension management program would significantly boost it. The availability of telemedicine and mental health services would also contribute positively. The final score would provide a snapshot of the overall quality of hypertension management within the specified ZIP code and primary care landscape.

The “Hypertension Score” would be a dynamic metric, subject to change as healthcare practices evolve and new resources become available. Regular updates would be necessary to reflect changes in physician availability, practice characteristics, and the integration of new technologies. This would ensure the score remains a relevant and accurate reflection of the healthcare landscape.

The analysis would also consider the availability of patient education materials and resources. Practices that provide patients with information about hypertension, its management, and lifestyle modifications would receive a higher score. This could include brochures, online resources, support groups, or educational classes. Patient education is crucial for empowering individuals to take an active role in their health and adhere to their treatment plans.

The integration of technology beyond telemedicine also contributes to the score. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient data, monitor blood pressure readings, and send automated reminders for appointments and medication refills would be viewed favorably. The use of remote blood pressure monitoring devices, which allow patients to transmit their readings to their physicians, would also enhance the score.

Finally, the analysis would consider the affordability of healthcare services. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans and offer financial assistance programs would be viewed more favorably. The cost of medications, diagnostic tests, and specialist referrals can be a significant barrier to care for many patients. Addressing these financial concerns is crucial for ensuring equitable access to hypertension management.

The "Hypertension Score" would be a valuable tool for residents of Cairnbrook, healthcare providers, and policymakers. It would provide a clear picture of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system, highlighting areas where improvements are needed. It would also serve as a benchmark for measuring progress over time.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Cairnbrook, including the location of primary care practices, hospitals, and pharmacies, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a clear and interactive view of the area, allowing you to easily identify healthcare resources and assess their accessibility.