16749, Smethport, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 16749, Smethport, Pennsylvania is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.95 percent of the residents in 16749 has some form of health insurance. 42.64 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.74 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 16749 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 966 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16749. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 812 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 309 health care providers accessible to residents in 16749, Smethport, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Smethport, PA (ZIP Code 16749)

Analyzing the landscape of hypertension care in Smethport, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 16749) requires a multifaceted approach, considering not only the availability of physicians but also the quality of care, the integration of modern technologies, and the support systems available to patients. A comprehensive “Hypertension Score” would assess these factors to provide a clearer picture of the resources available to manage and control this prevalent condition. This analysis will focus on the key elements impacting this score.

The core of any hypertension care system is the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). Smethport, a rural community, likely faces challenges in this area. Physician-to-patient ratios are critical. A high ratio, indicating fewer doctors for a larger population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced patient-doctor interaction time, and potentially compromised care. Determining the exact ratio in 16749 requires accessing data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health or similar sources. A low ratio would significantly detract from the Hypertension Score. Conversely, a favorable ratio, coupled with readily accessible appointments, would boost the score.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of care offered by the existing PCPs is paramount. This includes the accuracy of diagnosis, the effectiveness of treatment plans, and the ongoing monitoring of patient progress. Are physicians adhering to the latest guidelines for hypertension management, such as those established by the American Heart Association (AHA) or the American College of Cardiology (ACC)? Do they utilize evidence-based practices, including lifestyle recommendations like diet and exercise counseling, and medication management tailored to individual patient needs? The Hypertension Score should reflect the commitment of local practices to these standards.

Identifying standout practices within Smethport is crucial. These practices may exhibit exemplary hypertension management programs, including proactive patient outreach, robust patient education initiatives, and comprehensive follow-up protocols. These practices could have a positive impact on the Hypertension Score. They might employ specialized nurses or medical assistants trained in hypertension management, offering additional support and education to patients. Furthermore, practices that actively participate in quality improvement programs, tracking their performance metrics and striving for continuous improvement, would be highly valued.

The adoption of telemedicine is another critical factor. Telemedicine can significantly improve access to care, especially in rural areas where travel distances can be a barrier. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring (e.g., blood pressure monitoring at home), and online patient portals for communication and prescription refills are demonstrating a commitment to patient convenience and proactive care. The Hypertension Score should reward practices that embrace telemedicine, as it can improve patient adherence to treatment plans and allow for more frequent monitoring.

Mental health is inextricably linked to hypertension management. Stress and anxiety can significantly elevate blood pressure, and patients struggling with these issues may find it more difficult to adhere to treatment plans. The availability of mental health resources within Smethport is therefore a critical component of the Hypertension Score. This includes access to psychiatrists, psychologists, counselors, and support groups. Practices that integrate mental health screening into their routine care and offer referrals to mental health professionals are demonstrating a holistic approach to patient well-being. The closer and more accessible these resources are, the higher the score.

Furthermore, the availability of resources that support healthy lifestyles, such as access to healthy food options, exercise facilities, and community health programs, also influence the overall score. These factors contribute to the broader health environment in Smethport and indirectly impact hypertension management. Practices that partner with community organizations to promote healthy living are contributing to a more favorable environment for patients.

The presence of pharmacies within the ZIP code is also vital. The ease of access to medications, including the availability of generic alternatives and medication adherence programs, can significantly affect patient outcomes. Practices that collaborate with local pharmacies to ensure medication access and provide medication counseling are contributing positively to the Hypertension Score.

Finally, the patient experience must be considered. Are patients satisfied with the care they receive? Are they able to easily communicate with their physicians and care teams? Do they feel supported in managing their condition? Patient satisfaction surveys and online reviews can provide valuable insights into the patient experience, which should be factored into the Hypertension Score.

In conclusion, assessing the “Hypertension Score” for Smethport, PA (16749) requires a comprehensive evaluation of physician availability, quality of care, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and patient experience. A high score would indicate a robust system of care that prioritizes patient well-being and effectively manages hypertension. A low score would highlight areas for improvement, such as increasing physician access, expanding telemedicine capabilities, and strengthening mental health support.

For a visual representation of this data and a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Smethport and surrounding areas, we encourage you to explore the power of location-based insights. Visit CartoChrome maps to visualize the data and gain a comprehensive perspective on the availability of healthcare resources in your community.