16254, Shippenville, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 16254, Shippenville, Pennsylvania is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.77 percent of the residents in 16254 has some form of health insurance. 40.14 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.49 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 16254 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 831 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16254. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 671 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 515 health care providers accessible to residents in 16254, Shippenville, Pennsylvania.

**Hypertension Score Analysis: Shippenville, PA (ZIP Code 16254)**

This analysis evaluates the landscape of hypertension management within ZIP code 16254 (Shippenville, Pennsylvania), focusing on the availability and quality of primary care, a critical factor in controlling this widespread health concern. We’ll examine physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and consider the integration of mental health resources, all within the context of managing hypertension.

The foundation of effective hypertension control lies in accessible and proactive primary care. In Shippenville, understanding the physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times, reduced appointment frequency, and potentially, less consistent monitoring of blood pressure. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility, allowing for more frequent check-ups, medication adjustments, and patient education – all vital for successful hypertension management. Publicly available data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, combined with information from the US Census Bureau, would be necessary to calculate an accurate physician-to-patient ratio for this specific ZIP code. This data would provide a baseline understanding of the community's access to care.

Beyond mere numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Identifying standout practices in Shippenville that demonstrate excellence in hypertension management is essential. These practices likely employ evidence-based guidelines, such as those from the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology, to guide their treatment protocols. They probably emphasize lifestyle modifications, including dietary counseling and exercise recommendations, alongside medication management. Furthermore, a commitment to patient education, ensuring patients understand their condition, medications, and the importance of adherence, would be a hallmark of these leading practices. Researching online reviews, patient testimonials, and practice websites can help identify these high-performing providers.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in hypertension management, particularly in rural areas like Shippenville. It offers the potential to overcome geographical barriers, enabling patients to connect with their physicians remotely for follow-up appointments, medication refills, and even blood pressure monitoring guidance. The level of telemedicine adoption among primary care providers in this ZIP code is a key indicator of accessibility. Practices that embrace telemedicine are likely to be more accessible to patients, especially those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Investigating which practices offer telehealth options, the types of services provided remotely, and the ease of use for patients is crucial.

The link between mental health and hypertension is increasingly recognized. Stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure levels, making it essential to address mental health concerns in the context of hypertension management. The availability of mental health resources within Shippenville, and the integration of these resources into primary care practices, is a critical factor. Practices that offer on-site mental health services, or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals, are better equipped to provide comprehensive care. Assessing the availability of therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups in the community, and how primary care physicians collaborate with these resources, will provide a more complete picture of the care available.

Evaluating the integration of these elements – physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources – allows for the development of a 'Hypertension Score' for Shippenville. This score wouldn't be a single number, but rather a composite assessment reflecting the overall strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system in managing hypertension. A high score would indicate robust access to care, evidence-based treatment protocols, and a holistic approach that considers both physical and mental well-being. A lower score would highlight areas where improvements are needed, such as increasing physician availability, expanding telemedicine options, or strengthening mental health integration.

Improving hypertension management in Shippenville requires a multifaceted approach. It involves not only individual patient care but also community-level initiatives. Public health campaigns promoting healthy lifestyles, increased access to affordable medications, and ongoing education for both patients and providers are all essential components of a successful strategy. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government is crucial to create a supportive environment for patients with hypertension.

The data required for a comprehensive analysis often resides in disparate locations. Public health records, insurance claims data, physician directories, and patient feedback are just a few examples. Gathering, organizing, and analyzing this information can be a complex and time-consuming process.

To visualize and understand the complex interplay of factors influencing hypertension management, consider the power of geospatial analysis. CartoChrome maps offer a dynamic platform for visualizing healthcare data, enabling you to identify patterns, trends, and disparities within Shippenville and the surrounding areas. You can map physician locations, patient demographics, access to pharmacies, and the prevalence of hypertension, providing a clear and actionable understanding of the local landscape. By layering different data sets, you can pinpoint areas with the greatest need for intervention and evaluate the effectiveness of existing programs.

**Ready to unlock the power of data visualization and gain a deeper understanding of hypertension management in Shippenville? Explore the possibilities with CartoChrome maps. Contact us today to learn how our geospatial solutions can help you improve healthcare outcomes in your community.**