16114, Clarks Mills, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 16114, Clarks Mills, Pennsylvania is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.82 percent of the residents in 16114 has some form of health insurance. 31.81 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.36 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 16114 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 138 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16114. An estimate of 3 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 129 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,685 health care providers accessible to residents in 16114, Clarks Mills, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 16114 & Primary Care Availability in Clarks Mills

Analyzing the landscape of healthcare accessibility and quality within ZIP code 16114, encompassing the Clarks Mills area, requires a multi-faceted approach. A “Hypertension Score” analysis, though a simplification, offers a framework for understanding the potential challenges and opportunities faced by residents managing this prevalent condition. The score, in this context, will be a qualitative assessment based on available data, focusing on primary care access, physician capabilities, and supportive resources.

The foundation of effective hypertension management lies in readily available primary care. Clarks Mills, a rural community, likely experiences challenges related to physician-to-patient ratios. The national average hovers around 1:1,300, but rural areas often face significantly higher ratios. This directly impacts the ability of individuals to secure timely appointments for screenings, diagnosis, and ongoing management. A high physician-to-patient ratio in 16114 would negatively impact the Hypertension Score.

Furthermore, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) accepting new patients is crucial. If a significant portion of PCPs in the area are at capacity, individuals newly diagnosed with hypertension, or those seeking a new provider, may face considerable delays in accessing care. This delay can lead to uncontrolled hypertension, increasing the risk of serious complications like stroke and heart disease. The Hypertension Score would be negatively affected by limited access to new patient appointments.

Within the existing primary care infrastructure, the skills and specializations of the physicians are also critical. While all PCPs should be equipped to manage hypertension, some may have a particular interest or expertise in cardiovascular health. The presence of cardiologists or other specialists, even if not directly located within the ZIP code, but accessible within a reasonable driving distance, would positively influence the score. The ability to consult with or refer patients to specialists is vital for complex cases.

Telemedicine adoption represents a significant opportunity to improve hypertension management, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to connect with their physicians remotely for follow-up appointments, medication management, and education. This can reduce the burden of travel, improve adherence to treatment plans, and provide more frequent monitoring. The extent of telemedicine adoption by primary care practices in 16114, and their integration of remote blood pressure monitoring devices, would significantly impact the Hypertension Score. Practices actively utilizing telemedicine would receive a higher score.

Beyond direct medical care, the availability of supportive resources plays a crucial role in hypertension control. This includes access to patient education materials, nutritional counseling, and support groups. These resources empower patients to take an active role in managing their condition, improving adherence to lifestyle modifications and medication regimens. The presence of these resources, perhaps through local hospitals or community health organizations, would positively influence the Hypertension Score.

Mental health is inextricably linked to physical health, and its impact on hypertension cannot be ignored. Stress and anxiety can elevate blood pressure, and untreated mental health conditions can hinder adherence to treatment plans. The availability of mental health services, either integrated within primary care practices or readily accessible through referrals, is critical. Practices offering integrated mental health services, or those with strong referral networks, would receive a higher score.

Identifying standout practices within 16114 requires a closer look at individual clinic capabilities. This includes assessing the availability of on-site blood pressure monitoring, electronic health records (EHRs) with integrated medication management, and the implementation of evidence-based guidelines for hypertension treatment. Practices demonstrating a commitment to these best practices would be recognized for their contributions to improved patient outcomes. The Hypertension Score would be positively influenced by clinics adopting these practices.

Analyzing the patient experience provides valuable insights. Patient reviews, feedback surveys, and data on patient satisfaction can reveal areas where practices excel and areas where improvements are needed. Positive patient experiences, reflecting effective communication, compassionate care, and a focus on patient education, would contribute to a higher Hypertension Score.

The overall picture for hypertension management in 16114, and Clarks Mills, is likely complex. The rural nature of the area presents challenges related to physician access and resource availability. However, the potential for telemedicine adoption, combined with a focus on patient education and integrated mental health services, offers opportunities for improvement. The Hypertension Score, therefore, would be a nuanced assessment, reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the existing healthcare infrastructure.

The analysis of the Hypertension Score in 16114, and Clarks Mills, reveals that while access to primary care may be limited, the adoption of telemedicine and the integration of mental health services could significantly improve patient outcomes. The availability of supportive resources, such as patient education materials and nutritional counseling, is also crucial. The presence of specialists, even if not directly located within the ZIP code, but accessible within a reasonable driving distance, is also an important factor.

This analysis provides a starting point for understanding the healthcare landscape in 16114. To gain a deeper understanding of physician locations, practice characteristics, and resource availability, explore the interactive mapping tools offered by CartoChrome.