16502, Erie, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 16502, Erie, Pennsylvania is 95 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.19 percent of the residents in 16502 has some form of health insurance. 55.69 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 44.63 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 16502 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,414 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 10 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16502. An estimate of 6 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,163 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 7,023 health care providers accessible to residents in 16502, Erie, Pennsylvania.

**Hypertension Score Analysis: Erie, PA (ZIP Code 16502) & Primary Care Landscape**

Analyzing the landscape of hypertension management within Erie, Pennsylvania, specifically focusing on the 16502 ZIP code and the broader context of primary care availability, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, identify standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and evaluate the availability of mental health resources, all critical components of effective hypertension control.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a foundational metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can translate to reduced access to care, particularly impacting patients requiring frequent monitoring and medication adjustments, common in hypertension management. Within the 16502 ZIP code, the ratio likely reflects the broader Erie County averages, potentially influenced by rural pockets and the overall population density. Data from the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and state medical boards would be crucial in determining the precise ratio, providing a baseline for assessing the capacity of the local healthcare system to adequately address hypertension.

Identifying standout practices requires a deep dive into quality metrics. Are there specific clinics or physician groups within 16502 that demonstrate superior hypertension control rates? This necessitates examining patient outcomes, such as blood pressure control within target ranges (e.g., <130/80 mmHg), medication adherence, and the frequency of patient follow-up appointments. Practices employing evidence-based guidelines, utilizing electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient data management, and actively engaging patients in their care through education and self-monitoring tools are likely to achieve better results. Publicly available data from organizations like the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) or the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) could provide valuable insights.

Telemedicine adoption has the potential to significantly impact hypertension management, particularly in areas with limited access to care. Telemedicine enables remote blood pressure monitoring, virtual consultations, and medication management, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. The degree to which practices in 16502 have embraced telemedicine is a key factor. Are they offering virtual appointments? Do they provide remote monitoring devices? Are they utilizing patient portals for communication and education? Assessing the availability and utilization of these technologies is critical for determining the accessibility and convenience of care for patients with hypertension.

The interplay between hypertension and mental health is undeniable. Stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure control. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting and the broader community is crucial. Are practices in 16502 integrated with mental health providers? Do they offer on-site counseling services or have established referral pathways to mental health specialists? The ability to address both the physical and mental aspects of a patient's health is essential for comprehensive hypertension management. Examining the presence of behavioral health integration and the accessibility of mental health services within the community is vital.

The primary care landscape in Erie, beyond the specific ZIP code, provides a broader context for understanding hypertension management. The overall availability of primary care physicians, including general practitioners, internal medicine specialists, and family medicine physicians, influences access to care for all residents, including those with hypertension. The concentration of primary care practices, their geographic distribution, and their acceptance of various insurance plans all contribute to the overall accessibility of care. Data from local hospitals, healthcare systems, and insurance providers would be useful to assess the overall primary care capacity in Erie.

Specific practices within the 16502 area may stand out. Consider the practices that have invested in advanced technology, such as remote blood pressure monitoring devices that transmit data directly to the patient's electronic health record. Some practices may have dedicated hypertension management programs, including nurse-led care coordination and patient education sessions. These programs can improve patient adherence to medication regimens and lifestyle modifications, leading to better blood pressure control. Identifying these standout practices requires a review of their quality metrics, patient satisfaction scores, and the adoption of innovative approaches to care.

The integration of technology is a major factor. Practices utilizing patient portals for communication, medication refills, and appointment scheduling are likely to enhance patient engagement and improve adherence. Telemedicine, as mentioned earlier, plays a vital role in extending the reach of primary care physicians, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in underserved areas. The adoption of these technologies is a key indicator of a practice's commitment to patient-centered care and its ability to effectively manage hypertension.

The availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting is another crucial aspect. Screening for depression and anxiety, providing brief counseling interventions, and establishing referral pathways to mental health specialists are essential components of comprehensive hypertension management. The presence of these resources indicates a practice's recognition of the complex interplay between physical and mental health and its commitment to addressing the holistic needs of its patients.

The overall primary care landscape in Erie, beyond the specific ZIP code, is important. The concentration of primary care physicians, their geographic distribution, and their acceptance of various insurance plans all contribute to the overall accessibility of care. Access to specialists, such as cardiologists and nephrologists, is also important for patients with complex cases of hypertension.

In conclusion, a comprehensive assessment of hypertension management in the 16502 ZIP code requires a detailed analysis of physician-to-patient ratios, the identification of standout practices, an evaluation of telemedicine adoption, and an assessment of mental health resource availability. This information, combined with a broader understanding of the primary care landscape in Erie, will provide a complete picture of the resources available to patients with hypertension.

To visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, identify areas with limited access, and explore the geographic factors influencing hypertension management in Erie, Pennsylvania, visit CartoChrome maps. Explore our interactive maps to uncover valuable insights and improve healthcare planning.