17021, East Waterford, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 17021, East Waterford, Pennsylvania is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.52 percent of the residents in 17021 has some form of health insurance. 44.56 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 77.21 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 17021 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 141 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17021. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 299 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 884 health care providers accessible to residents in 17021, East Waterford, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 17021 & Primary Care in East Waterford

This analysis delves into the landscape of hypertension management within ZIP code 17021, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care, particularly in the context of East Waterford. We aim to provide a nuanced understanding of the resources available to patients, considering factors like physician-to-patient ratios, innovative practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health support. The ultimate goal is to assess the effectiveness of the local healthcare ecosystem in addressing hypertension, a prevalent and serious health concern.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of access to care. In 17021, the ratio likely fluctuates depending on the specific location within the zip code and the concentration of healthcare providers. Areas with a higher density of primary care physicians generally offer better access, allowing for more frequent check-ups, preventative screenings, and timely interventions. Conversely, regions with a scarcity of doctors may lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment for hypertension. Data from state licensing boards and local health departments can provide insights into the actual physician-to-patient ratio, allowing for a more precise evaluation of access.

Primary care availability in East Waterford, a potentially rural area within 17021, presents a unique challenge. Rural communities often face shortages of healthcare professionals, leading to reduced access to care and a heavier burden on existing providers. The geographical distance to the nearest primary care clinic can also be a significant barrier, especially for elderly individuals or those with limited transportation options. Evaluating the number of primary care practices in East Waterford, their hours of operation, and their acceptance of new patients is crucial to understanding the availability of care.

Identifying standout practices within 17021 is essential for highlighting best practices in hypertension management. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient education, proactive screening, and comprehensive treatment plans should be recognized. These practices often employ strategies like regular blood pressure monitoring, lifestyle counseling, and medication management to optimize patient outcomes. Examining patient satisfaction surveys and reviewing publicly available data on clinical outcomes, such as blood pressure control rates, can help identify practices that are excelling in hypertension care.

Telemedicine adoption is a growing trend in healthcare, offering the potential to improve access to care, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine platforms enable patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and facilitating more frequent check-ins. In 17021, assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption among primary care practices is crucial. Practices that offer telehealth services, including virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and medication refills, are likely to be better equipped to manage hypertension effectively.

The integration of mental health resources is increasingly recognized as a critical component of comprehensive healthcare. Hypertension can be exacerbated by stress, anxiety, and depression. Therefore, primary care practices that offer or have referral pathways to mental health services are better positioned to provide holistic care. Evaluating the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, within the 17021 area and the extent to which primary care practices collaborate with these professionals is essential.

The availability of specialized services, such as cardiology consultations and endocrinology support, also impacts hypertension management. Patients with complex cases may require referrals to specialists for advanced diagnostics and treatment. Assessing the proximity and accessibility of these specialists within or near 17021 is vital. Strong referral networks between primary care practices and specialists contribute to a more coordinated and effective approach to hypertension care.

Another factor to consider is the availability of resources for patient education. Practices that provide patients with educational materials, such as brochures, online resources, and group classes, can empower them to take an active role in managing their condition. Evaluating the availability and quality of these resources is essential.

Community involvement is another important aspect. Practices that actively engage with the community through health fairs, screenings, and educational programs can raise awareness about hypertension and promote preventative measures. Assessing the level of community outreach by primary care practices in 17021 is a valuable indicator of their commitment to public health.

The use of electronic health records (EHRs) can also impact the quality of care. EHRs facilitate the efficient management of patient data, allowing physicians to track blood pressure readings, medication adherence, and other relevant information. Practices that utilize EHRs effectively are better equipped to monitor patient progress and make informed decisions about treatment.

Finally, evaluating the affordability of care is essential. The cost of healthcare, including doctor visits, medications, and diagnostic tests, can be a significant barrier to access. Assessing the acceptance of insurance plans, the availability of financial assistance programs, and the overall cost of care in 17021 is crucial.

In conclusion, assessing the quality of hypertension management within ZIP code 17021, particularly in East Waterford, requires a comprehensive analysis. This analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, the availability of primary care, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the presence of standout practices. By examining these factors, we can gain a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare ecosystem's ability to address hypertension and identify areas for improvement. The goal is to ensure that residents of 17021 have access to the resources and support they need to effectively manage their health.

For a visual representation of these healthcare resources and a deeper understanding of the landscape in 17021, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their maps provide detailed visualizations of physician locations, access to care, and other relevant data, allowing you to gain valuable insights into the healthcare environment.