16153, Stoneboro, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 16153, Stoneboro, Pennsylvania is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.95 percent of the residents in 16153 has some form of health insurance. 39.86 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.84 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 16153 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 563 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16153. An estimate of 3 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 377 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,741 health care providers accessible to residents in 16153, Stoneboro, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Stoneboro, PA (ZIP Code 16153)

Analyzing the landscape of hypertension care within Stoneboro, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16153) requires a multifaceted approach. We'll examine the availability of primary care physicians, assess their practices concerning hypertension management, and evaluate the broader healthcare ecosystem's support for patients. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive "Hypertension Score," reflecting the overall quality and accessibility of care for individuals managing or at risk of this prevalent condition.

The foundation of effective hypertension management rests on readily available primary care. In Stoneboro, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. A high ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can strain resources and potentially limit access to timely appointments and ongoing care. We need to investigate the actual number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the ZIP code, factoring in their patient load and appointment availability. This data, however, is often dynamic and can fluctuate based on physician retirements, relocations, or changes in practice size.

Beyond simple physician counts, the nature of primary care practices is crucial. Are the practices accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate diverse schedules? Do they have dedicated staff, such as nurses or medical assistants, who can assist with patient education, medication management, and follow-up care? Practices that prioritize patient-centered care, including clear communication, shared decision-making, and readily available support, will naturally score higher on our Hypertension Score.

Standout practices within Stoneboro will be identified based on their commitment to hypertension management best practices. This includes the consistent use of standardized protocols for blood pressure measurement, diagnosis, and treatment. We'll look for evidence of practices employing evidence-based guidelines from organizations like the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology. This could involve the routine use of ambulatory blood pressure monitoring, which provides a more comprehensive picture of a patient's blood pressure over time.

Furthermore, we'll assess how effectively practices utilize medication management strategies. This includes the appropriate selection of antihypertensive medications, tailored to individual patient needs and comorbidities. We'll also examine the practice's approach to patient education regarding medication adherence, potential side effects, and lifestyle modifications. Practices that actively monitor patient progress, adjust medications as needed, and provide ongoing support will receive higher marks.

Telemedicine adoption is another significant factor. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and medication refills can significantly enhance access to care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms and integrated them seamlessly into their workflow will be recognized for their forward-thinking approach. This also includes the availability of remote monitoring devices that can transmit blood pressure readings directly to the physician's office.

The connection between hypertension and mental health is increasingly recognized. Chronic stress and anxiety can contribute to elevated blood pressure and complicate treatment. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the Stoneboro healthcare ecosystem is a vital component of our Hypertension Score. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists who can address underlying mental health issues. We'll investigate whether primary care practices have established referral pathways to mental health providers and whether they offer integrated behavioral health services.

Additionally, we'll evaluate the availability of support groups and educational programs for patients with hypertension. These resources can provide valuable peer support, promote self-management skills, and empower patients to take an active role in their health. We'll look for evidence of community partnerships, such as collaborations with local pharmacies, wellness centers, or community health organizations, that offer these types of programs.

The overall infrastructure supporting hypertension care also needs evaluation. This includes access to diagnostic testing, such as echocardiograms and kidney function tests, which are essential for assessing the impact of hypertension on other organ systems. We'll also consider the availability of specialists, such as cardiologists and nephrologists, who can provide specialized care for patients with complex cases.

The analysis will also consider the socioeconomic factors that impact health outcomes in Stoneboro. Factors such as income levels, access to healthy food, and housing quality can all influence a patient's ability to manage their hypertension effectively. We'll assess whether primary care practices are aware of these factors and have developed strategies to address health disparities within the community. This could involve providing assistance with accessing social services, offering financial assistance for medications, or partnering with community organizations to address food insecurity.

The final Hypertension Score will be a composite measure, reflecting the combined impact of all these factors. Practices that demonstrate a strong commitment to evidence-based care, patient-centeredness, and comprehensive support will receive the highest scores. This score will provide a valuable tool for patients seeking high-quality hypertension care in Stoneboro.

The analysis will also examine the presence of any specific programs or initiatives aimed at improving hypertension management within the community. This could include public health campaigns, community health screenings, or collaborative projects between healthcare providers and local organizations. Practices that actively participate in these initiatives will be recognized for their commitment to improving the overall health of the community.

In conclusion, assessing hypertension care in Stoneboro requires a deep dive into the available resources, the practices of local physicians, and the broader healthcare infrastructure. This analysis will provide a comprehensive overview of the strengths and weaknesses of the current system, and it will highlight opportunities for improvement. The goal is to empower patients with the information they need to make informed decisions about their care and to promote a healthier community.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Stoneboro, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to resources, we invite you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps provide a dynamic and insightful way to visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment.