16732, Gifford, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 16732, Gifford, Pennsylvania is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 16732 has some form of health insurance. 29.46 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 93.02 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 16732 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 13 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16732. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 35 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 433 health care providers accessible to residents in 16732, Gifford, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 16732 & Primary Care in Gifford

This analysis delves into the landscape of hypertension management within ZIP Code 16732, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care, particularly in the Gifford area. The goal is to assess the resources available to patients, considering factors crucial for effective hypertension control, including physician accessibility, innovative care models, and the integration of mental health support.

The foundation of successful hypertension management rests on accessible primary care. Within 16732, an initial assessment requires examining the physician-to-patient ratio. While precise figures fluctuate, understanding the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) serving the population is paramount. This data, ideally, should be compared to both state and national averages to gauge whether the area is underserved. A low physician-to-patient ratio might indicate longer wait times for appointments, potentially hindering timely diagnosis and treatment adjustments. Public health data, such as that available from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, can offer insights into physician distribution and availability.

Beyond sheer numbers, the geographical distribution of PCPs within 16732, and specifically the proximity to Gifford, is crucial. Patients in Gifford, particularly those with limited transportation options, require convenient access to care. Analyzing the distance to the nearest primary care clinics is essential. Furthermore, the hours of operation, including evening and weekend availability, should be considered. Extended hours can significantly improve access for working individuals and those with other commitments.

Identifying standout practices within the ZIP Code is vital. These practices often demonstrate exemplary approaches to hypertension management. This involves evaluating their commitment to evidence-based guidelines, such as those published by the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology. Key indicators include the consistent use of blood pressure monitoring protocols, patient education programs, and medication adherence support. Practices that actively engage patients in their care, fostering a collaborative approach, often achieve superior outcomes. The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate data sharing and care coordination is another positive sign.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly critical, particularly in rural areas like Gifford. Telemedicine offers a powerful tool for improving access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living far from clinics. Assessing the extent to which practices in 16732 utilize telemedicine for hypertension management, including virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and medication refills, is essential. Practices that embrace telehealth can potentially reduce the burden on patients and improve adherence to treatment plans.

The connection between hypertension and mental health is well-established. Chronic stress and anxiety can elevate blood pressure, and mental health conditions can also affect medication adherence. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting is a critical factor. Practices that integrate behavioral health services, either through on-site therapists or partnerships with mental health providers, demonstrate a more holistic approach to patient care. This integration can facilitate early identification of mental health issues and provide timely interventions.

Evaluating the insurance landscape within 16732 is also relevant. The acceptance of various insurance plans, including Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance, impacts access to care. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans ensure that a broader segment of the population can receive necessary medical services. This is particularly important in areas with a high proportion of elderly or low-income residents.

The quality of patient education materials and resources is another important consideration. Practices that provide clear, concise, and culturally sensitive information about hypertension, its management, and lifestyle modifications empower patients to take an active role in their health. These resources can include written materials, online portals, and group education sessions.

Furthermore, the availability of specialized services, such as cardiology consultations and diabetes management programs, is relevant. Hypertension often coexists with other chronic conditions, and access to these specialized services can improve overall patient outcomes. Practices that have strong referral networks with specialists ensure that patients receive comprehensive care.

The use of data analytics to track and improve hypertension management is a sign of a forward-thinking practice. Practices that use data to monitor patient outcomes, identify areas for improvement, and implement evidence-based interventions demonstrate a commitment to continuous quality improvement. This can include tracking blood pressure control rates, medication adherence, and patient satisfaction.

Finally, community outreach efforts can also be a positive indicator. Practices that participate in community health initiatives, such as blood pressure screenings and health fairs, demonstrate a commitment to promoting health and wellness within the community. These efforts can increase awareness of hypertension and encourage early detection and treatment.

Analyzing these factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, geographical accessibility, telemedicine adoption, mental health integration, insurance acceptance, patient education resources, and community outreach, provides a comprehensive picture of the hypertension management landscape within 16732, particularly in Gifford. This assessment can help identify areas of strength and areas where improvements are needed.

For a detailed, interactive map visualizing the distribution of healthcare resources, including primary care physicians, specialists, and pharmacies, within ZIP Code 16732, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. These maps provide a dynamic and visually engaging way to understand the healthcare landscape and identify potential gaps in access to care.