17104, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 17104, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania is 87 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.69 percent of the residents in 17104 has some form of health insurance. 57.42 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 43.15 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 17104 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 7,363 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 55 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17104. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,125 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 20,098 health care providers accessible to residents in 17104, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Harrisburg, PA (ZIP Code 17104)

The city of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, specifically within the 17104 ZIP code, presents a unique landscape for primary care and hypertension management. This analysis aims to provide a "Hypertension Score" assessment, evaluating the availability and quality of care for individuals managing or at risk of high blood pressure. The analysis will consider factors like physician-to-patient ratios, notable medical practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the presence of mental health resources, all crucial elements in comprehensive hypertension care.

Harrisburg, the state capital, faces challenges common to many urban areas, including variations in socioeconomic status, access to healthy food options, and the prevalence of chronic diseases like hypertension. Effective management of hypertension requires a multi-faceted approach, encompassing regular medical check-ups, lifestyle modifications, medication adherence, and readily available support systems. The availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) are pivotal in this process.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios:**

A critical indicator of access to care is the physician-to-patient ratio. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially, delayed diagnosis or treatment. While precise, up-to-the-minute data on physician-to-patient ratios within 17104 is challenging to obtain publicly, a general assessment based on available resources suggests a potential strain on primary care resources. This strain may be exacerbated by the concentration of specialists and the potential for patients to seek care outside of their immediate geographic area. Further investigation into the specific distribution of PCPs, including their patient load and acceptance of new patients, is necessary to accurately gauge the accessibility of care within the ZIP code.

**Standout Practices:**

Identifying "standout" practices requires considering several factors, including the quality of care, patient satisfaction, and the adoption of innovative practices. Practices that prioritize patient education, offer comprehensive hypertension management programs, and utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient progress are likely to be highly rated. Some practices in the Harrisburg area are known for their commitment to preventative care and chronic disease management. These practices frequently emphasize the importance of lifestyle modifications, such as diet and exercise, in conjunction with medication management. They might also offer specialized services, such as registered dietitians or certified diabetes educators, to provide patients with the support they need to manage their condition effectively.

**Telemedicine Adoption:**

Telemedicine holds significant potential to improve access to care, particularly for patients with chronic conditions like hypertension. Telehealth can facilitate remote monitoring of blood pressure, virtual consultations, and medication management. The adoption of telemedicine within 17104 practices is a crucial factor in assessing the overall "Hypertension Score." Practices that have embraced telehealth are likely to offer more convenient and accessible care options, especially for patients with mobility limitations, transportation challenges, or those residing in underserved areas. The extent to which practices utilize secure video conferencing, remote patient monitoring devices, and patient portals for communication and information sharing will significantly impact their score.

**Mental Health Resources:**

The link between mental health and hypertension is well-established. Stress, anxiety, and depression can contribute to elevated blood pressure and hinder effective management. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive hypertension care. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through in-house providers or referrals to external specialists, are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients. The presence of readily accessible mental health support, including therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within the community is a significant factor in the overall "Hypertension Score." The ability of primary care physicians to identify and address mental health concerns, as well as their willingness to collaborate with mental health professionals, is crucial for optimal patient outcomes.

**Primary Care Availability in Harrisburg:**

The overall availability of primary care in Harrisburg, and specifically within the 17104 ZIP code, is a key determinant of the "Hypertension Score." Factors that influence availability include the number of PCPs, their acceptance of new patients, the availability of after-hours care, and the accessibility of the practice locations. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans and offer flexible appointment scheduling are likely to be more accessible to a diverse patient population. The presence of community health centers and federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) can improve access to care for underserved populations, contributing positively to the overall score.

**Specific Considerations for 17104:**

17104, like many urban areas, likely faces challenges related to socioeconomic disparities. These disparities can impact access to healthy food options, safe environments for physical activity, and the ability to afford medications and healthcare services. Practices in this ZIP code should be particularly mindful of these factors and strive to provide culturally competent care that addresses the unique needs of the community. The availability of resources like patient assistance programs, community health workers, and language services can significantly improve the quality of care for vulnerable populations.

**Overall "Hypertension Score" Assessment:**

Based on the factors discussed, a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" for 17104 would require a detailed analysis of specific practices and the community. This analysis would involve gathering data on physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, mental health integration, and access to care. The score would reflect the overall accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of hypertension care within the ZIP code. It is likely that the score would be influenced by the availability of resources, the presence of innovative practices, and the ability of healthcare providers to address the unique needs of the community.

**Conclusion:**

Understanding the healthcare landscape within Harrisburg, specifically ZIP code 17104, is vital for improving hypertension management. The availability of primary care, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the overall quality of care are all crucial factors. To visualize and analyze the distribution of primary care physicians, the location of specialized services, and the accessibility of healthcare resources, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer a dynamic and interactive platform to visualize healthcare data, identify areas of need, and make informed decisions about improving access to care within the Harrisburg community.