16217, Cooksburg, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 16217, Cooksburg, Pennsylvania is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 16217 has some form of health insurance. 71.72 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 64.65 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 16217 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16217. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 49 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 405 health care providers accessible to residents in 16217, Cooksburg, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Cooksburg, PA (ZIP Code 16217)

This analysis evaluates the landscape of hypertension management within Cooksburg, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16217), focusing on primary care physician availability, the quality of care offered, and the resources available to patients. The goal is to provide a comprehensive 'Hypertension Score' assessment, considering various factors impacting the ability of residents to effectively manage their blood pressure. This evaluation does not constitute medical advice.

The foundation of effective hypertension management lies in accessible and competent primary care. In Cooksburg, the availability of primary care physicians is a critical starting point. The physician-to-patient ratio is a key indicator. A low ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and ultimately, less effective care. Determining the precise ratio requires data from multiple sources, including the U.S. Census Bureau and state medical licensing boards. A significant shortage of primary care physicians would negatively impact the Hypertension Score.

Furthermore, the geographical distribution of primary care practices within the ZIP code is crucial. Are practices clustered in a central location, or are they dispersed, potentially creating access challenges for residents in more remote areas? Accessibility also includes transportation options. The presence of public transportation or the availability of reliable private transportation for patients is a factor. Limited access to healthcare services due to geographic constraints would negatively impact the Hypertension Score.

Standout practices within Cooksburg would demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive hypertension management. This includes a proactive approach to screening, diagnosis, and treatment. The use of evidence-based guidelines, such as those from the American Heart Association or the American College of Cardiology, is essential. Practices that consistently monitor patient blood pressure, provide patient education on lifestyle modifications (diet, exercise, stress management), and prescribe appropriate medications would receive higher marks. The availability of on-site diagnostic tools, such as ambulatory blood pressure monitoring, is also a positive indicator.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas. The ability for patients to consult with their physicians remotely can improve access to care, particularly for those with mobility issues or transportation challenges. Practices that offer telemedicine consultations, remote monitoring of blood pressure, and online patient portals for communication and medication refills would receive a higher score. The ease of use and technical support provided for telemedicine platforms are also relevant factors.

The connection between hypertension and mental health is well-established. Chronic stress and anxiety can significantly impact blood pressure. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within Cooksburg is a crucial component of the Hypertension Score. The presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, is essential. Easy access to these resources, whether through referrals from primary care physicians or direct access, is a positive indicator. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices would be highly beneficial.

Beyond the availability of mental health professionals, the availability of support groups, educational programs, and stress-reduction techniques (such as mindfulness or yoga) can also contribute to improved hypertension management. The promotion of healthy lifestyle choices, including exercise programs and access to nutritious food options, also plays a significant role. The presence of community resources that support healthy behaviors would positively influence the Hypertension Score.

The quality of care is also reflected in patient outcomes. Practices that track and report patient outcomes, such as blood pressure control rates, would be viewed favorably. Regular audits of patient records to assess adherence to treatment guidelines and identify areas for improvement are also positive indicators. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) to facilitate data analysis and improve care coordination is also important.

The overall 'Hypertension Score' for Cooksburg (ZIP Code 16217) would be a composite score, weighted based on the factors discussed above. A high score would indicate a strong healthcare environment for hypertension management, characterized by accessible primary care, proactive treatment approaches, telemedicine adoption, and readily available mental health resources. A low score would indicate areas for improvement, such as physician shortages, limited access to specialized care, and a lack of support for healthy lifestyle choices.

This assessment highlights the complexities of healthcare access and the multifaceted nature of hypertension management. It underscores the importance of a comprehensive approach that addresses not only medical treatment but also social determinants of health.

To visualize the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, physician-to-patient ratios, and other relevant data points within Cooksburg and surrounding areas, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of the data, allowing for a more in-depth understanding of the healthcare landscape and identifying areas where improvements are most needed.