16143, Pulaski, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 16143, Pulaski, Pennsylvania is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.05 percent of the residents in 16143 has some form of health insurance. 43.90 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.99 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 16143 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 253 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16143. An estimate of 3 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 502 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,653 health care providers accessible to residents in 16143, Pulaski, Pennsylvania.

**Hypertension Score Analysis: ZIP Code 16143 & Primary Care in Pulaski**

Analyzing the landscape of hypertension care within ZIP code 16143 (Pulaski, PA) requires a multifaceted approach, considering not only the availability of primary care physicians but also the quality of care delivered, the adoption of innovative technologies, and the integration of mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive overview, ultimately assigning a "Hypertension Score" based on the factors discussed.

The foundation of effective hypertension management lies in accessible and qualified primary care. Pulaski, PA, a small community, faces unique challenges regarding physician-to-patient ratios. While precise figures fluctuate, the area likely experiences a higher-than-average patient-to-physician ratio compared to more urbanized regions. This can translate to longer wait times for appointments and potentially less frequent check-ups, impacting the ability to proactively manage hypertension. The availability of primary care physicians is crucial for initial diagnosis, medication management, and ongoing monitoring of blood pressure.

The quality of care provided by individual practices varies. Some practices may excel in patient education, providing comprehensive information on lifestyle modifications, dietary adjustments, and the importance of medication adherence. Others might prioritize a more reactive approach, primarily addressing hypertension when it reaches critical levels. Identifying "standout practices" involves evaluating factors such as patient satisfaction scores, the use of evidence-based guidelines, and the implementation of proactive screening programs. Practices that actively engage patients in their care, offering personalized treatment plans and readily available support, are likely to achieve superior outcomes.

Telemedicine offers a promising avenue to improve hypertension management, especially in areas with limited access to primary care. The adoption of telemedicine technologies, such as remote blood pressure monitoring and virtual consultations, can significantly enhance patient convenience and improve adherence to treatment plans. Physicians can remotely monitor patients' blood pressure readings, adjust medications as needed, and provide timely feedback. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are likely to achieve better control rates and reduce the risk of complications associated with hypertension. The integration of telemedicine also allows for increased patient contact and support, particularly beneficial for those who struggle to visit a physical office frequently.

The link between hypertension and mental health is increasingly recognized. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure levels, making it imperative to address mental health concerns in the context of hypertension management. Practices that integrate mental health resources, such as on-site therapists or referrals to mental health professionals, are better equipped to provide holistic care. Addressing the psychological factors contributing to hypertension can improve patient outcomes and enhance overall well-being. The availability of mental health support can also help patients cope with the challenges of managing a chronic condition.

The "Hypertension Score" for ZIP code 16143 would be determined by considering the following factors: the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of care provided by individual practices (based on patient satisfaction, adherence to guidelines, and proactive screening), the adoption of telemedicine technologies, and the integration of mental health resources. A higher score would indicate better access to care, higher-quality treatment, and a more comprehensive approach to managing hypertension.

Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio involves analyzing data from various sources, including the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the American Medical Association. This data would be used to calculate the number of primary care physicians per 1,000 residents in ZIP code 16143, and then compare it to the state and national averages. A lower ratio would negatively impact the score.

Evaluating the quality of care requires a more nuanced approach. Patient satisfaction surveys, available through platforms like Healthgrades and Vitals, can provide valuable insights into patient experiences. Analyzing the use of evidence-based guidelines, such as those published by the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology, is also critical. Practices that consistently adhere to these guidelines and implement proactive screening programs would receive higher scores.

The adoption of telemedicine can be assessed through surveys of local practices, determining the extent to which they offer remote blood pressure monitoring, virtual consultations, and other telehealth services. Practices that have fully embraced telemedicine technologies would receive higher scores.

Finally, the integration of mental health resources can be evaluated by determining whether practices offer on-site mental health services or provide referrals to mental health professionals. Practices that have integrated mental health support into their care models would receive higher scores.

Based on the available data, it is likely that the "Hypertension Score" for ZIP code 16143 would be moderate. The area likely faces challenges related to physician-to-patient ratios, but the quality of care provided by individual practices may vary. The adoption of telemedicine may be limited, and the integration of mental health resources may be inconsistent. Efforts to improve access to care, enhance the quality of treatment, and integrate mental health support are essential to improving the "Hypertension Score" and ultimately, the health of the community.

Understanding the geographical distribution of healthcare resources and the impact of these resources on patient outcomes is crucial for effective public health planning. CartoChrome maps can visually represent these data points, allowing for a more intuitive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Pulaski and surrounding areas.

Ready to explore the healthcare landscape of Pulaski, PA, and gain deeper insights into hypertension care? Visit CartoChrome maps today to visualize physician locations, patient demographics, and other relevant data points, empowering you to make informed decisions about your health and the health of your community.