17225, Greencastle, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 17225, Greencastle, Pennsylvania is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.51 percent of the residents in 17225 has some form of health insurance. 35.25 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.75 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 17225 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,913 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 10 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17225. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,482 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 12,295 health care providers accessible to residents in 17225, Greencastle, Pennsylvania.

The health landscape of Greencastle, Pennsylvania, specifically within the 17225 ZIP code, presents a complex interplay of factors impacting hypertension management. Analyzing the availability and quality of primary care physicians, coupled with the adoption of innovative practices, allows us to construct a “Hypertension Score” assessment. This score, though not a precise numerical value, reflects the relative strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system in addressing this prevalent condition.

The foundation of effective hypertension management lies in accessible primary care. The physician-to-patient ratio in Greencastle is a crucial metric. 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 and treatment. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater accessibility. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) can provide estimates of this ratio. The specifics of the ratio, however, are constantly in flux, so the latest data is critical.

Beyond simple numbers, the distribution of physicians matters. Are primary care practices concentrated in certain areas of the ZIP code, leaving others underserved? Are there sufficient specialists, such as cardiologists and nephrologists, to whom primary care physicians can readily refer patients with complex cases? The proximity of these specialists and the ease of referral processes are essential components of a robust hypertension care system. The presence of a local hospital, such as the Chambersburg Hospital (though outside the immediate ZIP code), can significantly impact the availability of specialized care.

Standout practices within the 17225 ZIP code can significantly elevate the Hypertension Score. These practices might demonstrate excellence in several areas. They might have implemented comprehensive hypertension screening programs, proactively identifying individuals at risk. They could be utilizing electronic health records (EHRs) effectively to track patient data, monitor blood pressure readings, and personalize treatment plans. Furthermore, they might have a strong emphasis on patient education, providing resources and support to help patients understand their condition and adhere to their medication regimens.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. Telemedicine offers several advantages in hypertension management. It allows for remote blood pressure monitoring, enabling physicians to track readings outside of the clinic setting and make adjustments to treatment plans accordingly. It also facilitates virtual consultations, making it easier for patients to access care, especially those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. The degree to which practices in Greencastle have embraced telemedicine, including the availability of virtual appointments and remote monitoring capabilities, directly impacts the Hypertension Score.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in hypertension management, yet they play a crucial role. Stress and anxiety can significantly impact blood pressure. Access to mental health services, including therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is therefore essential. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices or the availability of readily accessible referrals to mental health providers in the community positively influences the Hypertension Score. Are there collaborative care models in place, where primary care physicians and mental health professionals work together to provide integrated care?

The availability of patient education materials and support groups also contributes to the overall effectiveness of hypertension management. Practices that offer educational resources, such as pamphlets, websites, or group classes, empower patients to take an active role in their care. Support groups provide a platform for patients to connect with others facing similar challenges, share experiences, and learn from each other. The presence and accessibility of these resources enhance the Hypertension Score.

Analyzing the insurance landscape is also important. Does the area have a high rate of uninsured or underinsured individuals? The ability of patients to access affordable medications and healthcare services is a significant determinant of treatment adherence and overall health outcomes. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans and offer financial assistance programs for those who need it contribute to a higher Hypertension Score.

Another element to consider is the use of community health workers. These individuals can provide culturally competent care and support to patients, particularly those from underserved populations. They can assist with medication adherence, connect patients with social services, and advocate for their needs. The presence of community health workers in the Greencastle area can positively impact the Hypertension Score.

The overall assessment of the “Hypertension Score” for doctors in the 17225 ZIP code and primary care availability in Greencastle requires a holistic approach. It necessitates a careful examination of physician-to-patient ratios, the distribution of practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, the availability of patient education and support, and the accessibility of affordable care. The specific data for each of these factors will determine the relative strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system in managing hypertension.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Greencastle, including the location of primary care practices, specialists, and other relevant resources, explore the interactive maps available from CartoChrome. These maps can provide valuable insights into the distribution of healthcare providers and the accessibility of care within the 17225 ZIP code.