16501, Erie, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 16501, Erie, Pennsylvania is 95 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.41 percent of the residents in 16501 has some form of health insurance. 64.71 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 33.42 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 16501 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 46 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 10 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16501. An estimate of 6 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 393 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 7,019 health care providers accessible to residents in 16501, Erie, Pennsylvania.

The analysis focuses on hypertension management within ZIP Code 16501, Erie, Pennsylvania, considering primary care availability and related factors. This is not a comprehensive medical review, but rather an assessment of available resources and potential areas for improvement, framed through a hypothetical “Hypertension Score” lens. The score, for the purpose of this analysis, is a composite of factors influencing hypertension management, ranging from physician accessibility to the integration of mental health services.

The foundation of effective hypertension control is access to primary care physicians (PCPs). In ZIP Code 16501, the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial determinant of the Hypertension Score. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of PCPs, would negatively impact the score. Conversely, a higher ratio, reflecting greater accessibility, would contribute positively. Publicly available data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, combined with information from local hospital systems like UPMC Hamot and AHN Saint Vincent, would be essential to determine the precise ratio. This data includes the number of practicing PCPs, their specialties (internal medicine, family medicine), and the estimated population of 16501.

Beyond sheer numbers, the distribution of PCPs within the ZIP Code is vital. Are practices concentrated in certain areas, leaving others underserved? This geographical analysis impacts the Hypertension Score. Practices located in areas with higher concentrations of vulnerable populations, such as those with limited transportation or lower socioeconomic status, require closer scrutiny. These populations often face increased risk factors for hypertension and may experience barriers to accessing care.

Standout practices within 16501 could significantly elevate the Hypertension Score. These practices would ideally demonstrate a proactive approach to hypertension management. This includes routinely screening patients for hypertension, employing evidence-based treatment protocols, and providing patient education materials. The practices’ use of electronic health records (EHRs) for data tracking and medication management is also important. Successful practices often incorporate patient-centered care models, such as extended appointment times, after-hours access, and culturally sensitive communication strategies.

Telemedicine adoption plays a critical role in the modern management of chronic conditions like hypertension. Practices embracing telemedicine, particularly for follow-up appointments, medication adjustments, and patient education, would receive a higher Hypertension Score. Telemedicine can improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in geographically isolated areas. The availability of remote blood pressure monitoring devices and the integration of these readings into the patient's EHR would be a significant advantage.

The link between mental health and hypertension is well-established. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can contribute to elevated blood pressure. Practices that integrate mental health resources into their hypertension management programs would receive a higher Hypertension Score. This could include on-site therapists, referrals to mental health specialists, and the use of validated screening tools for depression and anxiety. Collaboration between PCPs and mental health professionals is crucial for holistic patient care.

Patient education is a cornerstone of effective hypertension management. Practices that provide comprehensive education on lifestyle modifications, such as diet, exercise, and stress management, are crucial. This includes providing educational materials, conducting group classes, and offering individual counseling sessions. The availability of resources in multiple languages would be a further positive factor, particularly in a diverse community like Erie.

Insurance coverage and affordability are critical factors. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, and offer financial assistance programs for patients struggling to afford medications, would contribute positively to the Hypertension Score. Navigating the complexities of the healthcare system can be challenging, so practices that provide assistance with insurance enrollment and medication access are highly valuable.

Community outreach initiatives also influence the Hypertension Score. Practices that actively participate in community health fairs, offer free blood pressure screenings, and partner with local organizations to promote healthy lifestyles demonstrate a commitment to improving community health. This proactive approach can reach individuals who may not otherwise seek medical care.

The analysis of primary care availability extends beyond the boundaries of 16501. The broader availability of primary care in Erie County as a whole influences the overall Hypertension Score. The presence of urgent care clinics and walk-in clinics, while not a substitute for primary care, can provide access to immediate care for patients experiencing hypertension-related symptoms. The integration of these clinics into the healthcare ecosystem, through information sharing and referral networks, is beneficial.

The final Hypertension Score for doctors in ZIP Code 16501 would be a complex metric, reflecting the interplay of all these factors. It is important to reiterate that this is a hypothetical score, based on available information. A true assessment would require a comprehensive data collection and analysis process.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Erie, including the distribution of primary care practices, the locations of hospitals and clinics, and demographic data related to hypertension risk factors, explore the interactive maps available from CartoChrome. CartoChrome’s mapping tools provide a powerful way to visualize and analyze health data, aiding in the identification of areas with high needs and opportunities for improvement. Use CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper understanding of the factors influencing hypertension management in Erie.