17049, Mc Alisterville, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 17049, Mc Alisterville, Pennsylvania is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 75.22 percent of the residents in 17049 has some form of health insurance. 27.79 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.70 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 17049 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,061 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 8 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17049. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 574 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,480 health care providers accessible to residents in 17049, Mc Alisterville, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 17049 and Primary Care Availability in Mc Alisterville

Analyzing healthcare access and quality within ZIP Code 17049, encompassing Mc Alisterville, necessitates a multi-faceted approach. We must assess the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs), their capacity to manage hypertension, and the broader ecosystem supporting patient well-being. This analysis will provide a "Hypertension Score" ranking, considering several key factors.

The first crucial element is the physician-to-patient ratio. Accurate data on the number of PCPs actively practicing within 17049 is essential. This figure, combined with the estimated population of the area, allows us to calculate a ratio. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of PCPs, will negatively impact the Hypertension Score. Patients may face longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment of hypertension. A higher ratio, conversely, suggests better access and a higher score.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of care provided by these PCPs is paramount. The Hypertension Score must evaluate the practices' adherence to established clinical guidelines for hypertension management. This includes the frequency of blood pressure screenings, the use of evidence-based medications, and the provision of lifestyle counseling. Practices that consistently demonstrate adherence to these guidelines, as evidenced by patient outcomes and quality metrics, will receive higher scores. This data can be gleaned from public health reports, insurance claims data, and potentially, patient surveys.

Standout practices within the area deserve special recognition. We need to identify those that excel in hypertension management. This could involve looking for practices that have implemented innovative programs, such as home blood pressure monitoring initiatives, personalized care plans, or comprehensive patient education resources. Practices utilizing electronic health records (EHRs) effectively to track patient progress and facilitate communication will also score higher. Practices that prioritize patient-centered care, actively involving patients in their treatment decisions, are also likely to achieve superior outcomes and higher scores.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and medication management via telehealth significantly enhances access to care, particularly for residents in rural areas like Mc Alisterville. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, providing convenient and accessible options for patients, will receive a higher score. This is especially important for patients with hypertension, who often require frequent monitoring and medication adjustments. Telemedicine can reduce the burden of travel, improve medication adherence, and facilitate timely intervention when blood pressure is not well-controlled.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to hypertension management. Chronic stress and mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression, can significantly impact blood pressure. Therefore, the availability of mental health services within the community directly influences the Hypertension Score. We must assess the availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, and the ease with which patients can access these services. Practices that have integrated mental health services into their care models, offering collaborative care or referrals to mental health specialists, will receive higher scores.

Furthermore, the availability of support services, such as registered dietitians, certified diabetes educators, and smoking cessation programs, contributes to a holistic approach to hypertension management. Practices that actively connect patients with these resources will demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive care and receive a higher score. These services can help patients make lifestyle modifications, such as adopting a healthier diet, increasing physical activity, and quitting smoking, which are essential for controlling blood pressure.

The geographic distribution of healthcare resources is also important. Even with an adequate physician-to-patient ratio, access can be limited if PCPs are concentrated in one part of the ZIP Code, leaving other areas underserved. The Hypertension Score should consider the geographic accessibility of care, ensuring that all residents, regardless of their location, have reasonable access to PCPs and other healthcare services. This might involve assessing the distance to the nearest clinic, the availability of public transportation, and the presence of mobile health clinics.

Insurance coverage and affordability play a significant role. The Hypertension Score should consider the acceptance of various insurance plans by local practices and the availability of financial assistance programs for patients who struggle to afford healthcare. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans and offer assistance with medication costs and other expenses will receive a higher score. Affordability is a major barrier to accessing healthcare, and addressing this issue is crucial for improving hypertension management.

Finally, patient education and empowerment are essential. Practices that actively educate patients about hypertension, its risks, and its management, and that empower patients to take an active role in their care, will receive higher scores. This includes providing educational materials, offering group classes, and encouraging patients to monitor their blood pressure at home. Patient engagement is key to improving outcomes and ensuring that patients are committed to their treatment plans.

In conclusion, the Hypertension Score for doctors in ZIP Code 17049, encompassing Mc Alisterville, will be a composite measure reflecting the physician-to-patient ratio, adherence to clinical guidelines, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the availability of support services. Practices that prioritize patient-centered care, embrace technology, and integrate mental health services will achieve higher scores, ultimately contributing to better outcomes for patients with hypertension.

To visualize and analyze the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, population density, and access to support services, consider using CartoChrome maps. They provide a powerful tool for understanding the healthcare landscape and identifying areas where improvements are needed.