17030, Gratz, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 17030, Gratz, Pennsylvania is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 61.30 percent of the residents in 17030 has some form of health insurance. 38.24 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 33.44 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 17030 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 213 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 60 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17030. An estimate of 3 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 74 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 18,043 health care providers accessible to residents in 17030, Gratz, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: ZIP Code 17030 & Primary Care in Gratz

This analysis examines the landscape of hypertension management within ZIP code 17030, focusing on primary care availability in the nearby town of Gratz, Pennsylvania. We will evaluate the quality and accessibility of care, considering factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, notable practices, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial for effective hypertension control. The aim is to provide a comprehensive overview, highlighting strengths and weaknesses to inform residents and healthcare providers.

The initial assessment focuses on physician density within 17030. This area, like many rural communities, potentially faces challenges regarding access to primary care physicians. A low physician-to-patient ratio can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced opportunities for preventative care, and ultimately, less effective management of chronic conditions like hypertension. Researching the exact physician-to-patient ratio requires accessing specific datasets. However, the general expectation in a rural environment is that this ratio may be less favorable compared to more urbanized areas.

The availability of primary care in Gratz is also a critical consideration. Gratz serves as a potential access point for residents of 17030, particularly if the local physician supply is limited. The presence of primary care practices in Gratz can mitigate some of the access issues. However, factors like transportation, insurance coverage, and the acceptance of new patients by these practices will influence the overall accessibility of care for individuals residing in 17030.

Identifying standout practices within and around 17030 is vital. These practices often demonstrate best practices in hypertension management. This might include implementing standardized protocols for blood pressure monitoring, utilizing electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient data and treatment effectiveness, and offering patient education programs. These practices might also have specialized staff, such as certified diabetes educators or registered dietitians, who can provide targeted support to patients managing hypertension. Investigating the practices' patient satisfaction scores and their adherence to clinical guidelines would be crucial.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor in evaluating hypertension care. Telemedicine can significantly improve access to care, especially for individuals in rural areas. It allows patients to remotely monitor their blood pressure, receive medication management consultations, and participate in virtual educational sessions. Practices that have embraced telemedicine technologies are likely to offer more convenient and accessible care, especially for those with mobility issues or transportation challenges. The availability of reliable internet access in the 17030 area will also influence the feasibility of telemedicine.

The integration of mental health resources into hypertension management is increasingly recognized as essential. Stress and anxiety can significantly impact blood pressure levels. Practices that offer on-site mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals are better equipped to provide comprehensive care. This integrated approach addresses the holistic needs of patients, improving the likelihood of successful hypertension control. The presence of mental health resources, such as therapists or counselors, within the primary care setting, or easy access to them through referrals, is a positive indicator.

Evaluating the specific practices within 17030 and Gratz requires detailed research. This includes identifying the names and locations of primary care physicians and their associated practices. Examining their websites, if available, can reveal information about their services, telemedicine capabilities, and mental health integration. Reviews from patients, accessible through online platforms, can provide valuable insights into the quality of care and patient experience. Contacting these practices directly to inquire about their hypertension management protocols and services is also recommended.

The analysis should also consider the demographic profile of the population within 17030. Factors like age, socioeconomic status, and racial/ethnic composition can influence the prevalence of hypertension and the challenges in accessing care. Understanding the specific needs of the population allows healthcare providers to tailor their services and interventions more effectively. For example, providing culturally sensitive educational materials or offering services in multiple languages can improve patient engagement and outcomes.

Furthermore, the analysis needs to evaluate the availability of pharmacies and other healthcare facilities within the area. Easy access to pharmacies ensures that patients can readily obtain their prescribed medications. The presence of specialized clinics, such as cardiology or endocrinology clinics, can provide additional support for patients with complex cases of hypertension. The distance to these facilities and the availability of transportation options are also important considerations.

The assessment of hypertension care in 17030 and Gratz should also consider the role of community health initiatives. Local health departments, community organizations, and non-profit groups often play a vital role in promoting health awareness, providing educational programs, and offering support services. Identifying these initiatives and evaluating their impact on hypertension management can provide a broader perspective on the overall healthcare landscape.

In conclusion, the assessment of hypertension care in ZIP code 17030 and the availability of primary care in Gratz is a multi-faceted process. It requires a thorough investigation of physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health integration, and community resources. The goal is to identify strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement to ensure that residents have access to the quality care they need to manage their hypertension effectively. The data-driven insights will help to identify gaps in care and inform the development of targeted interventions to improve patient outcomes.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape, including physician locations, practice details, and the distribution of resources, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. They can provide a powerful tool for visualizing the data and gaining a deeper understanding of the factors influencing hypertension management in the 17030 area and beyond.