16725, Custer City, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 16725, Custer City, Pennsylvania is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 78.13 percent of the residents in 16725 has some form of health insurance. 62.50 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 15.63 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 16725 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 31 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16725. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 9 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 338 health care providers accessible to residents in 16725, Custer City, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Custer City, PA (ZIP Code 16725)

Analyzing the landscape of hypertension management in Custer City, Pennsylvania, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis aims to provide a 'Hypertension Score' assessment, evaluating the availability and quality of primary care services within ZIP code 16725, with a specific focus on hypertension management and related resources. The assessment considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health support, concluding with a call to action for advanced mapping tools.

The foundation of effective hypertension management lies in accessible primary care. Custer City, a small community, presents unique challenges in this regard. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) directly impacts a patient's ability to receive regular check-ups, medication management, and lifestyle counseling – all critical components of hypertension control. Physician-to-patient ratios are a key metric. A high ratio (fewer physicians per capita) can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially compromised care quality. While precise figures fluctuate, the overall physician density in rural areas like Custer City tends to be lower than in more urban settings.

Identifying standout practices requires delving into their specific service offerings and commitment to hypertension management. Practices that proactively screen patients for hypertension, implement standardized protocols for diagnosis and treatment, and emphasize patient education tend to achieve better outcomes. Electronic health records (EHRs) play a crucial role, enabling efficient data tracking, medication reconciliation, and the identification of patients at risk. Practices that utilize EHRs effectively, including features like automated reminders for follow-up appointments and medication refills, are likely to provide superior care.

The adoption of telemedicine has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to access healthcare services remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to specialists. For hypertension management, telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, medication management, and remote monitoring of blood pressure. Practices that embrace telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring tools, can significantly improve patient convenience and adherence to treatment plans. However, the digital divide – the gap between those who have access to technology and those who don't – must be considered. Ensuring equitable access to telemedicine requires addressing issues like internet connectivity and digital literacy, particularly among older adults, who are often disproportionately affected by hypertension.

Hypertension is often intertwined with mental health. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can contribute to elevated blood pressure and complicate treatment. Therefore, the integration of mental health resources into primary care is crucial. Practices that offer on-site mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals can provide more holistic care. This integration may include screening for mental health conditions, providing brief counseling, and coordinating care with psychiatrists or therapists. The availability of mental health support can significantly improve patient outcomes by addressing the psychological factors that may impact hypertension control.

Furthermore, the integration of specialized services is important. The presence of endocrinologists, cardiologists, and nephrologists within a reasonable distance can improve access to specialized care for patients with complex hypertension or related conditions. Collaboration between primary care physicians and specialists ensures comprehensive management and coordinated care. The presence of certified diabetes educators (CDEs) and registered dietitians (RDs) can also significantly contribute to patient education and lifestyle modification, which are essential components of hypertension management.

Assessing the 'Hypertension Score' for Custer City, therefore, requires a comprehensive evaluation of these factors. This assessment would consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices with robust hypertension management protocols, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. A higher score would be assigned to areas with a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, practices with evidence-based hypertension management programs, widespread telemedicine adoption, and readily available mental health support.

The challenges in Custer City are likely to include a lower physician density compared to urban areas, potentially limited access to specialized care, and the need to address the digital divide to ensure equitable access to telemedicine. However, the community's size can also facilitate close collaboration between healthcare providers, potentially leading to effective care coordination. Success will depend on the commitment of local healthcare providers to implementing evidence-based practices, embracing technology, and prioritizing patient-centered care.

The 'Hypertension Score' is not a static number but a dynamic assessment that can evolve over time. Regular monitoring of key metrics, such as patient outcomes, medication adherence rates, and the utilization of telemedicine services, is essential to track progress and identify areas for improvement. The development of community-wide initiatives, such as hypertension awareness campaigns and educational programs, can further enhance the effectiveness of hypertension management efforts.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Custer City and to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, including primary care practices, specialists, and pharmacies, consider utilizing advanced mapping tools. These tools can help identify gaps in care, assess accessibility, and inform strategic planning to improve hypertension management in the community.

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