16746, Roulette, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 16746, Roulette, Pennsylvania is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.69 percent of the residents in 16746 has some form of health insurance. 58.49 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.34 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 16746 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 207 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16746. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 256 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 73 health care providers accessible to residents in 16746, Roulette, Pennsylvania.

**Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 16746 & Primary Care Availability in Roulette**

Assessing the quality and accessibility of healthcare, particularly for chronic conditions like hypertension, requires a nuanced approach. This analysis focuses on ZIP Code 16746 (covering Roulette, PA) and evaluates the availability and quality of primary care physicians, crucial for managing hypertension. We will examine physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, explore telemedicine adoption, and assess the integration of mental health resources – all critical components of a comprehensive hypertension management strategy.

The foundation of hypertension care lies in accessible primary care. ZIP Code 16746, a primarily rural area, likely faces challenges common to such regions: physician shortages, limited specialist access, and the logistical hurdles of travel for appointments. The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental metric. A high ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and difficulty in establishing strong doctor-patient relationships – all detrimental to effective hypertension control. Precise data on this ratio for 16746 is essential; however, it is likely to be less favorable than in more urban settings. This necessitates a focus on optimizing existing resources and exploring alternative care models.

Identifying standout practices within the area is crucial. These practices, potentially demonstrating superior patient outcomes, innovative approaches, or a commitment to patient education, should be highlighted. A practice excelling in hypertension management might, for example, have a dedicated nurse educator, offer extended hours, or implement a robust patient portal for medication refills and communication. These practices often prioritize preventative care, regularly monitoring blood pressure, and proactively adjusting treatment plans. They also tend to have a strong emphasis on patient education, empowering individuals to understand their condition and actively participate in their care.

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool, particularly in rural settings. Its adoption in 16746 is a critical factor. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with physicians remotely, receive medication management advice, and monitor their blood pressure from home. Practices embracing telemedicine often see improved patient adherence to treatment plans and reduced hospital readmissions. The success of telemedicine, however, depends on reliable internet access, patient comfort with technology, and physician willingness to adopt virtual care models.

Hypertension is inextricably linked to mental health. Stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure control. Therefore, the integration of mental health resources within primary care practices is paramount. This includes access to mental health professionals, such as therapists or psychiatrists, either on-site or through referral networks. Practices that prioritize mental health often screen patients for these conditions and provide support services, leading to improved overall health outcomes, including better hypertension management.

Evaluating the availability of specialists, such as cardiologists and nephrologists, is also vital. While primary care physicians are the frontline in hypertension management, access to specialists is crucial for complex cases or when complications arise. The proximity of specialists, or the ability to facilitate timely referrals, is a key indicator of the quality of care available in the area. This is particularly important in rural settings, where access to specialists may be limited.

Furthermore, the adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) plays a significant role. EHRs facilitate the sharing of patient information between different healthcare providers, improving coordination of care. They also enable the tracking of patient outcomes, allowing physicians to monitor the effectiveness of their treatment plans and make necessary adjustments. Practices utilizing EHRs can often improve patient adherence to medication and lifestyle recommendations.

Another key aspect is the availability of patient education materials. Practices that provide patients with clear, concise, and culturally sensitive information about hypertension, its management, and lifestyle modifications are more likely to see improved patient outcomes. This includes educational materials on healthy eating, exercise, and stress management techniques. The availability of these resources, in multiple formats (e.g., pamphlets, online videos), enhances patient understanding and engagement.

Community resources also play a role. The presence of support groups, exercise programs, and healthy food initiatives within the community can significantly contribute to hypertension management. Practices that collaborate with these community resources are better positioned to provide comprehensive care. These resources can help patients adopt and maintain healthy lifestyle habits.

Finally, the cost of care is a major consideration. The affordability of medications, diagnostic tests, and specialist visits can significantly impact a patient's ability to adhere to their treatment plan. Practices that work with patients to navigate insurance coverage, offer financial assistance programs, or provide access to affordable medications can improve patient outcomes. Transparency in pricing is also important.

In conclusion, assessing hypertension care in ZIP Code 16746 requires a multifaceted approach. Evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and analyzing the integration of mental health resources are all critical components. The availability of specialists, the use of EHRs, the provision of patient education materials, and the integration with community resources are also important factors. Addressing the challenges of rural healthcare, such as physician shortages and limited access to specialists, is essential for improving hypertension management in this area.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in ZIP Code 16746, including physician locations, specialist availability, and community resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. Explore the data and gain valuable insights to improve healthcare accessibility and patient outcomes.