16748, Shinglehouse, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 16748, Shinglehouse, Pennsylvania is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.62 percent of the residents in 16748 has some form of health insurance. 46.54 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.27 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 16748 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 579 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16748. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 592 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 161 health care providers accessible to residents in 16748, Shinglehouse, Pennsylvania.

The analysis will focus on evaluating the quality of primary care services and resources for hypertension management within ZIP code 16748 (Shinglehouse, PA), considering factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components of a comprehensive approach to hypertension control.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a foundational indicator of access to care. In Shinglehouse, a rural community, this ratio is likely a critical factor. Data from the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and the Pennsylvania Department of Health would be necessary to determine the exact physician-to-patient ratio within the ZIP code. A low ratio (e.g., a high number of patients per physician) suggests potential challenges in securing timely appointments, leading to delayed diagnosis and treatment of hypertension. Conversely, a higher ratio indicates greater access, potentially enabling more proactive management strategies. The availability of primary care physicians, specifically those accepting new patients, is another critical aspect. A shortage of available physicians can significantly impact patient access and the ability to receive timely care, which is essential for hypertension management.

Standout practices in Shinglehouse would be those demonstrating a commitment to comprehensive hypertension management. This includes not only the diagnosis and prescription of medication but also the implementation of lifestyle modification programs. These programs, which may encompass nutritional counseling, exercise guidance, and smoking cessation support, are vital for effectively controlling blood pressure. Practices that integrate these services, either internally or through referrals to external providers, are better positioned to achieve positive patient outcomes. Furthermore, practices that actively monitor patient adherence to medication regimens and lifestyle recommendations are likely to be more successful in managing hypertension. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient data and generate reminders for appointments and medication refills also contributes to improved care coordination and patient outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption is a crucial consideration in a rural area like Shinglehouse. Telemedicine offers the potential to overcome geographical barriers and improve access to care, particularly for patients with chronic conditions such as hypertension. Practices that offer telehealth consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and virtual follow-up appointments can significantly enhance patient convenience and facilitate more frequent and consistent engagement with their healthcare providers. The availability of reliable internet access within the community is a prerequisite for successful telemedicine implementation. Practices should assess the internet access of their patient population and provide support to patients who may lack adequate connectivity.

The integration of mental health resources is an often-overlooked but essential component of hypertension management. Chronic stress and mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression, can significantly impact blood pressure. Primary care practices that recognize this connection and offer or facilitate access to mental health services are better equipped to provide holistic care. This may involve integrating mental health professionals into the practice, establishing referral pathways to mental health specialists, or providing educational materials and resources on stress management techniques. The availability of mental health services, particularly those that are affordable and accessible, is a crucial factor in the overall health and well-being of the community and directly impacts hypertension management.

The analysis would also consider the availability of other relevant resources within the community. This includes access to pharmacies for medication refills, support groups for patients with hypertension, and community-based health education programs. The presence of these resources can enhance patient self-management skills and provide additional support for individuals striving to control their blood pressure. Collaboration between primary care practices and community organizations can be instrumental in establishing and maintaining these resources.

In evaluating the 'Hypertension Score' for doctors in ZIP code 16748, a comprehensive assessment would be needed. This would involve gathering data on physician-to-patient ratios, assessing the practices' commitment to lifestyle modification programs, evaluating the adoption of telemedicine, and determining the availability of mental health resources. A scoring system could be developed to assign points based on these factors, with higher scores indicating better quality of care and greater potential for successful hypertension management. The analysis would also consider the overall health of the community, including socioeconomic factors, access to healthy food options, and opportunities for physical activity.

The final 'Hypertension Score' would provide a valuable tool for patients seeking primary care in Shinglehouse. It would enable them to make informed decisions about their healthcare and identify practices that are best equipped to meet their needs. The analysis would also provide valuable insights for healthcare providers, allowing them to identify areas for improvement and implement strategies to enhance the quality of care they provide.

Ultimately, the goal of this analysis is to improve the management of hypertension within the community. By identifying strengths and weaknesses in the healthcare system, we can work towards creating a more supportive and effective environment for patients with hypertension. Access to timely and comprehensive care is essential for preventing complications and improving overall health outcomes. The availability of resources and the willingness of healthcare providers to embrace innovative approaches, such as telemedicine and integrated mental health services, are critical factors in achieving this goal.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Shinglehouse, including the geographic distribution of physicians and the availability of resources, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps provide a visual representation of the data, enabling you to analyze the information in a more intuitive and insightful way. Utilize CartoChrome maps to visualize the data and gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in your community.