16417, Girard, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 16417, Girard, Pennsylvania is 97 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.96 percent of the residents in 16417 has some form of health insurance. 39.12 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.69 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 16417 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,924 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16417. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,726 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 612 health care providers accessible to residents in 16417, Girard, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Girard, PA (ZIP Code 16417)

This analysis delves into the landscape of hypertension management and primary care access within Girard, Pennsylvania, specifically focusing on ZIP code 16417. Our goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the resources available to residents for managing hypertension, including an assessment of physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health services. While we don’t provide a numerical “score,” the following discussion offers a comprehensive overview to inform residents and healthcare providers alike.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Primary Care Availability:**

A crucial element in assessing hypertension management is the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). The physician-to-patient ratio in Girard, and Erie County more broadly, is a significant factor. Data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health and other sources (such as the Health Resources & Services Administration) are essential to determine the precise ratio. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potential delays in hypertension diagnosis and treatment.

Furthermore, the type of primary care available matters. Are there enough family medicine physicians, internal medicine specialists, and geriatricians to meet the diverse needs of the community? The presence of nurse practitioners and physician assistants, who often play a vital role in primary care, should also be considered. Analyzing the distribution of these healthcare professionals across the ZIP code is key. Are practices geographically accessible, or are there pockets of underserved areas?

**Standout Practices and Their Approaches:**

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several criteria. Does the practice have a strong focus on preventative care, including regular blood pressure screenings and lifestyle counseling? Are they actively utilizing evidence-based guidelines for hypertension management, such as those from the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology?

Practices that offer comprehensive care, including access to specialists like cardiologists and endocrinologists, are particularly valuable. The presence of on-site diagnostic services, such as electrocardiograms (EKGs) and blood work, can streamline the diagnostic process and improve patient convenience. Furthermore, practices with a strong commitment to patient education, providing resources and support for self-management of hypertension, are highly commendable.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Impact:**

Telemedicine has the potential to significantly improve hypertension management, particularly in rural areas like Girard. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, monitor blood pressure remotely, and provide medication management via telehealth can enhance access to care and improve patient outcomes.

The extent of telemedicine adoption among primary care practices in 16417 is an important factor. Are practices offering virtual appointments for follow-up visits, medication refills, and even initial consultations? Do they utilize remote blood pressure monitoring devices to track patient progress? Practices that embrace telemedicine can potentially reduce the burden on patients, especially those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges.

**Integration of Mental Health Resources:**

The link between mental health and hypertension is well-established. Stress, anxiety, and depression can contribute to elevated blood pressure and hinder effective management. Therefore, the integration of mental health resources within primary care practices is crucial.

Does the practice have mental health professionals on staff, or do they have established referral pathways to mental health providers in the community? Are they screening patients for mental health conditions and addressing these issues as part of a holistic approach to hypertension management? Practices that recognize and address the interplay between mental and physical health are better equipped to provide comprehensive care.

**Specific Considerations within Girard (16417):**

Analyzing the specific characteristics of Girard is essential. What is the demographic makeup of the population? Are there specific risk factors for hypertension prevalent in the community, such as a high prevalence of obesity or diabetes? Understanding these factors can help tailor healthcare strategies to meet the unique needs of the residents.

Furthermore, exploring the availability of community resources, such as support groups for individuals with hypertension, exercise programs, and healthy food options, can provide a more complete picture of the support system available to patients. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and public health agencies is essential to create a comprehensive approach to hypertension management.

**Challenges and Opportunities:**

Girard, like many rural communities, may face challenges in accessing specialized care and attracting healthcare professionals. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach.

Investing in telehealth infrastructure and promoting the use of remote monitoring technologies can improve access to care. Supporting programs that encourage healthcare professionals to practice in rural areas is also essential. Furthermore, fostering collaboration among healthcare providers, community organizations, and public health agencies can create a more supportive environment for patients with hypertension.

**Conclusion:**

Effective hypertension management in Girard, PA (16417), depends on a complex interplay of factors. Physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources all play critical roles. While a comprehensive analysis would involve gathering and analyzing specific data, this overview provides a framework for understanding the key elements that contribute to successful hypertension management in this community.

To gain a visual understanding of the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, physician locations, and community health indicators within Girard and surrounding areas, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. These maps offer a powerful tool for visualizing data and understanding the healthcare landscape.