17051, Mc Veytown, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 17051, Mc Veytown, Pennsylvania is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.30 percent of the residents in 17051 has some form of health insurance. 46.99 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.46 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 17051 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,036 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17051. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,254 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 826 health care providers accessible to residents in 17051, Mc Veytown, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: 17051 & McVeytown Primary Care

Analyzing the landscape of hypertension care within ZIP code 17051 (Mifflintown, PA) and evaluating primary care access for the McVeytown area requires a multi-faceted approach. We'll explore key indicators including physician availability, practice characteristics, technological integration, and the presence of related mental health resources, culminating in a "Hypertension Score" assessment. This score, while not a definitive metric, will offer a comparative understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem in addressing hypertension management.

The foundation of effective hypertension care rests on accessible primary care. Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical first data point. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) directly impacts the ability of individuals to receive regular check-ups, screenings, and medication management essential for controlling high blood pressure. Data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, combined with publicly available information on physician practices within 17051, will be crucial. A higher ratio, indicating fewer patients per physician, generally suggests better access. This is particularly vital in a rural setting like Mifflin County, where geographic barriers and transportation limitations can exacerbate access challenges.

Within the 17051 ZIP code, identifying standout practices is paramount. These practices often demonstrate best practices in hypertension management. We will look for evidence of patient-centered care, including extended hours, same-day appointments, and proactive outreach programs. Practices that actively monitor patient adherence to medication regimens and lifestyle recommendations, such as dietary changes and exercise, will score higher. Furthermore, practices employing certified clinical pharmacists or nurses specializing in hypertension management demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive care. We will also evaluate the quality of patient education materials and the availability of resources for managing associated conditions like diabetes and heart disease, as these often co-occur with hypertension.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and medication refills significantly improves access to care, especially for patients in geographically isolated areas or those with mobility limitations. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms for hypertension management, allowing patients to track their blood pressure at home and share data with their physician, will be viewed favorably. The integration of these technologies can lead to earlier intervention, better patient engagement, and improved outcomes. The success of telemedicine, however, hinges on reliable internet access, a potential challenge in some rural areas.

Mental health resources are also critical. Hypertension is often intertwined with stress, anxiety, and depression. The availability of mental health support within or in close proximity to primary care practices is a crucial component of holistic care. Practices that offer on-site counseling, referrals to mental health specialists, or integrate behavioral health interventions into their hypertension management programs will be recognized for their comprehensive approach. The ability to address the psychological factors contributing to hypertension can significantly improve patient outcomes and overall well-being.

For McVeytown, the primary care availability assessment will focus on the proximity of practices to the town and the ease of access. This will include an evaluation of transportation options, including public transportation and the availability of ride-sharing services. The presence of community health centers or federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) that provide affordable care, regardless of insurance status, will be particularly important. The availability of these resources is crucial for ensuring that all residents, regardless of their socioeconomic background, have access to the care they need.

The "Hypertension Score" will be a composite metric, incorporating the elements discussed above. It will consider the physician-to-patient ratio within the 17051 ZIP code, the presence of standout practices with demonstrated expertise in hypertension management, the adoption of telemedicine technologies, and the integration of mental health resources. The score will be weighted based on the relative importance of each factor, with physician access and quality of care receiving the highest weighting.

The analysis will also factor in the specific needs of the McVeytown population, considering the geographic barriers and transportation challenges. The proximity of primary care practices, the availability of affordable care options, and the presence of resources for managing mental health will be key considerations. The goal is to provide a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare landscape, highlighting areas of strength and identifying opportunities for improvement.

Ultimately, the "Hypertension Score" will serve as a starting point for understanding the healthcare ecosystem within 17051 and the surrounding areas. It is not intended to be a definitive judgment but rather a tool to inform decision-making, identify areas for improvement, and promote better health outcomes for residents. The final score will reflect the overall capacity of the local healthcare system to effectively address the challenges of hypertension.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in 17051 and the surrounding areas, including the location of physician practices, the availability of resources, and the geographic distribution of patients, we recommend exploring interactive maps and data visualizations. **Visit CartoChrome maps to visualize the data and gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare ecosystem.**