16724, Crosby, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 16724, Crosby, Pennsylvania is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 16724 has some form of health insurance. 44.90 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.43 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 16724 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 14 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16724. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 20 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 126 health care providers accessible to residents in 16724, Crosby, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 16724 and Primary Care Availability in Crosby

Analyzing healthcare access and quality, particularly regarding hypertension management, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis focuses on doctors practicing within ZIP code 16724, encompassing Crosby, Pennsylvania, and evaluates primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, and the integration of modern healthcare practices. The goal is to provide a 'Hypertension Score' assessment, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement in managing this prevalent health condition.

The foundation of effective hypertension management rests upon accessible and competent primary care. In Crosby (ZIP code 16724), the availability of primary care physicians is a critical factor. A low physician-to-patient ratio can lead to appointment delays, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially, inadequate follow-up care. Conversely, a higher ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally translates to better access and improved patient outcomes. Determining the precise physician-to-patient ratio requires data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the U.S. Census Bureau, allowing for a comparative analysis against state and national averages. This ratio is a cornerstone of the 'Hypertension Score'.

Beyond mere numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This includes the expertise of the physicians, the comprehensiveness of their practices, and their commitment to evidence-based medicine. Evaluating this requires assessing the practices' adherence to national guidelines for hypertension management, such as those established by the American Heart Association (AHA) and the American College of Cardiology (ACC). Key metrics to consider include the frequency of blood pressure screenings, the use of appropriate medications, and the implementation of lifestyle modification counseling. Practices demonstrating a strong commitment to these guidelines would score favorably.

Standout practices within ZIP code 16724, if any, would be those that excel in these areas. Identifying these practices requires a deeper dive into patient reviews, physician credentials, and the availability of specialized services. For example, practices that offer on-site diagnostic testing, such as ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM), would be considered advantageous. Similarly, practices that employ certified diabetes educators or registered dietitians to assist patients with lifestyle modifications would contribute positively to their 'Hypertension Score'. The presence of a dedicated care coordinator to manage patient follow-up and medication adherence would also be a significant plus.

The adoption of telemedicine is another crucial element in the modern healthcare landscape. Telemedicine offers the potential to expand access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Practices that utilize telemedicine for hypertension management, such as virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and medication refills, would receive a higher 'Hypertension Score'. This technology can improve patient adherence to treatment plans and facilitate more frequent monitoring, ultimately leading to better control of hypertension.

Mental health plays a significant role in managing chronic conditions like hypertension. Stress, anxiety, and depression can all negatively impact blood pressure control. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through referral networks is an important consideration. Practices that have integrated mental health services, either through on-site therapists or partnerships with mental health providers, would score favorably. This integrated approach acknowledges the interconnectedness of physical and mental well-being, leading to more holistic patient care.

The assessment of primary care availability also necessitates an examination of the patient experience. This includes factors such as appointment wait times, office hours, and the ease of communication with the practice. Practices that offer convenient appointment scheduling, extended hours, and readily accessible communication channels (e.g., patient portals, email) would be considered more patient-friendly and would contribute to a higher 'Hypertension Score'. Patient satisfaction surveys, when available, can provide valuable insights into the overall patient experience.

Furthermore, the 'Hypertension Score' should consider the demographics of the population served by the primary care practices. Certain populations, such as those with lower socioeconomic status or specific ethnic backgrounds, may face disproportionate challenges in accessing healthcare and managing hypertension. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to addressing health disparities and providing culturally competent care would be recognized. This could include offering services in multiple languages or tailoring treatment plans to meet the specific needs of diverse patient populations.

The analysis should also consider the availability of ancillary services, such as pharmacy access and community resources. Convenient access to pharmacies for medication refills is crucial for medication adherence. Similarly, the availability of community resources, such as support groups, educational programs, and exercise facilities, can empower patients to take an active role in managing their hypertension. Practices that actively connect patients with these resources would be seen as proactive in promoting overall health and well-being.

In essence, the 'Hypertension Score' for doctors in ZIP code 16724 would be a composite measure, incorporating physician-to-patient ratios, adherence to clinical guidelines, telemedicine adoption, mental health integration, patient experience, and the provision of ancillary services. It would provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape in Crosby, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement in hypertension management. This score would serve as a valuable tool for both healthcare providers and patients, promoting informed decision-making and ultimately, better health outcomes.

To visualize this data and gain a deeper understanding of the geographical distribution of healthcare resources and patient outcomes related to hypertension, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides powerful mapping and analytical tools to visualize healthcare data, helping to identify areas of need and inform strategic planning.