16729, Duke Center, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 16729, Duke Center, Pennsylvania is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.59 percent of the residents in 16729 has some form of health insurance. 46.25 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.76 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 16729 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 162 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16729. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 120 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 397 health care providers accessible to residents in 16729, Duke Center, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Duke Center (ZIP Code 16729)

Analyzing the landscape of hypertension care within ZIP Code 16729, encompassing Duke Center, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians, assess physician-to-patient ratios, highlight exemplary practices, evaluate telemedicine adoption, and explore the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components in managing hypertension effectively. Ultimately, this assessment aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare ecosystem in Duke Center and its capacity to address the needs of individuals managing this prevalent condition.

The foundation of effective hypertension management rests on accessible primary care. In Duke Center, determining the precise number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the ZIP code is paramount. Publicly available databases, such as those maintained by the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), provide initial data points. However, this information must be supplemented by local knowledge. This includes insights from community health centers, local hospitals, and even patient advocacy groups. Confirming the types of physicians (e.g., family medicine, internal medicine) and their willingness to accept new patients is also crucial.

Once the number of practicing primary care physicians is established, calculating the physician-to-patient ratio becomes essential. The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) provides general guidelines for assessing primary care access. However, the specific demographics of Duke Center, including its age distribution and the prevalence of chronic conditions like hypertension, must be factored in. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, suggests potential challenges in accessing timely appointments and comprehensive care. Conversely, a lower ratio indicates greater availability, potentially leading to improved outcomes.

Identifying standout practices within Duke Center is critical. This involves researching practices that have demonstrated excellence in hypertension management. This might include practices that actively participate in quality improvement programs, utilize evidence-based guidelines, and have a track record of achieving positive patient outcomes. Factors to consider include the use of electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient data, the implementation of standardized protocols for blood pressure monitoring, and the provision of patient education materials. Patient testimonials and online reviews can also provide valuable insights into the patient experience.

Telemedicine adoption is another key element in evaluating hypertension care. Telemedicine offers several advantages, including increased access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Assessing the extent to which primary care physicians in Duke Center utilize telemedicine platforms is essential. This includes determining whether they offer virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and online patient portals for communication and medication refills. Practices that embrace telemedicine can potentially improve patient adherence to treatment plans and reduce the need for frequent in-person visits.

The connection between mental health and hypertension is well-established. Chronic stress and mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression, can significantly impact blood pressure control. Therefore, evaluating the availability of mental health resources in Duke Center is crucial. This includes assessing the availability of mental health professionals (e.g., psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists) and the extent to which primary care physicians integrate mental health screening and treatment into their practice. Practices that collaborate with mental health providers or offer on-site mental health services are better positioned to provide comprehensive care.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the availability of other supportive resources. This includes access to registered dietitians who can provide nutritional counseling, certified diabetes educators who can assist with lifestyle modifications, and community-based programs that offer exercise classes or support groups. The presence of these resources can significantly contribute to the overall effectiveness of hypertension management.

The analysis should also consider the impact of socioeconomic factors on hypertension management in Duke Center. Factors such as income levels, access to healthy food options, and the availability of transportation can all influence a patient's ability to manage their condition effectively. Addressing these social determinants of health is essential for achieving equitable outcomes.

In conclusion, evaluating hypertension care in Duke Center requires a comprehensive assessment of various factors. This includes the availability of primary care physicians, physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the integration of supportive services. By carefully considering these elements, a more accurate and nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape in Duke Center can be achieved. This understanding can then be used to identify areas for improvement and to develop strategies for enhancing hypertension management and improving patient outcomes.

To gain a visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Duke Center and surrounding areas, consider exploring the power of CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a spatial representation of physician locations, healthcare resources, and demographic data, allowing for a more comprehensive and insightful analysis.