16224, Fairmount City, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 16224, Fairmount City, Pennsylvania is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.63 percent of the residents in 16224 has some form of health insurance. 45.82 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.62 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 16224 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 197 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16224. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 265 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 474 health care providers accessible to residents in 16224, Fairmount City, Pennsylvania.

**Hypertension Score Analysis: Fairmount City, PA (ZIP Code 16224)**

Analyzing the landscape of hypertension management in Fairmount City, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16224) requires a multi-faceted approach, considering both the availability of primary care physicians and the quality of care delivered. This analysis will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and explore the integration of mental health resources, ultimately providing a comprehensive 'Hypertension Score' assessment.

The cornerstone of effective hypertension management is accessible primary care. In Fairmount City, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. While precise figures fluctuate, the area likely faces challenges. Rural communities often experience shortages, and Fairmount City, with its limited population base, may struggle to attract and retain a sufficient number of primary care physicians. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced patient access, and potentially delayed diagnosis and treatment of hypertension.

Standout practices in the area are key to mitigating these challenges. Identifying clinics with a strong emphasis on preventative care, robust patient education programs, and proactive hypertension management protocols is crucial. These practices often employ dedicated nurses or medical assistants who specialize in chronic disease management, including hypertension. They might utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient progress, automate reminders for medication refills and follow-up appointments, and generate personalized treatment plans. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, such as those promoted by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), often demonstrate a commitment to providing high-quality care.

Telemedicine adoption plays a significant role in improving access to care, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving medication adherence through easier follow-up appointments. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and online patient portals are better positioned to manage hypertension effectively. The availability of telehealth services can be a major differentiator, especially for patients with mobility limitations or transportation challenges.

The connection between hypertension and mental health is increasingly recognized. Chronic stress and anxiety can contribute to elevated blood pressure, and patients with hypertension may experience mental health challenges due to the chronic nature of their condition. Therefore, the integration of mental health resources is a crucial component of comprehensive hypertension care. Practices that offer on-site mental health services, referrals to mental health professionals, or educational programs on stress management and coping mechanisms are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health providers is essential for optimal patient outcomes.

Assessing the 'Hypertension Score' involves evaluating several key metrics. These include the physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of primary care appointments, the adoption of telemedicine, the presence of dedicated hypertension management programs, and the integration of mental health services. The score also considers patient satisfaction, as measured through surveys or online reviews, and the practice's adherence to evidence-based guidelines for hypertension treatment.

A practice with a favorable 'Hypertension Score' likely demonstrates a commitment to providing accessible, high-quality, and patient-centered care. This includes a sufficient number of primary care physicians, readily available appointments, the use of telemedicine to improve access, and the integration of mental health resources. Furthermore, these practices actively engage in patient education, promote medication adherence, and monitor patient progress closely.

Conversely, practices with lower scores may face challenges such as physician shortages, limited access to appointments, lack of telemedicine options, and inadequate mental health support. These practices might struggle to provide comprehensive hypertension management, potentially leading to poorer patient outcomes.

The analysis of Fairmount City's hypertension landscape reveals a need for improvement. While specific data is limited, the rural setting likely presents challenges in physician access and resource availability. Identifying and supporting standout practices that prioritize comprehensive care, telemedicine adoption, and mental health integration is crucial. Community initiatives that promote healthy lifestyles and raise awareness about hypertension are also essential.

Improving the 'Hypertension Score' in Fairmount City requires a collaborative effort involving healthcare providers, community organizations, and policymakers. Addressing physician shortages, expanding telemedicine services, and integrating mental health resources are key priorities. Investing in patient education and promoting healthy lifestyles can also significantly impact hypertension management.

To gain a visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Fairmount City, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to resources, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide valuable insights into the distribution of healthcare providers, the availability of services, and potential areas for improvement.