17243, Orbisonia, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 17243, Orbisonia, Pennsylvania is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.77 percent of the residents in 17243 has some form of health insurance. 37.44 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.91 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 17243 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 229 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17243. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 294 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 40 health care providers accessible to residents in 17243, Orbisonia, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Orbisonia, PA (ZIP Code 17243)

Orbisonia, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of Huntingdon County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare delivery. Analyzing the hypertension management capabilities within ZIP code 17243, particularly focusing on primary care availability and the services offered by local physicians, reveals a complex picture. A "Hypertension Score" is a hypothetical construct, evaluating the effectiveness of local healthcare in addressing hypertension, factoring in various elements like physician access, resource availability, and innovative approaches to care. This analysis aims to provide an informed perspective on the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system concerning this critical health concern.

The foundation of effective hypertension management rests on accessible primary care. Orbisonia, being a rural community, faces challenges common to such areas. Primary care availability is a significant factor in the Hypertension Score. The physician-to-patient ratio 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 diagnoses or inadequate follow-up care. Assessing the precise physician-to-patient ratio within 17243 requires gathering data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the U.S. Census Bureau. The lower the ratio, the lower the score.

Beyond sheer numbers, the types of primary care practices available are important. Are there solo practitioners, or are there group practices? Group practices often offer greater resources and the potential for collaborative care. The presence of family medicine practices, internal medicine specialists, and nurse practitioners all contribute to the overall score. The range of services offered within these practices is also crucial. Do they offer on-site blood pressure monitoring, medication management, and patient education programs specifically tailored to hypertension? Practices that proactively address these aspects will score higher.

Identifying standout practices is essential. A "Hypertension Score" would recognize practices that demonstrate excellence in hypertension management. This could include practices with a high percentage of patients achieving blood pressure control, those utilizing innovative technologies, or those actively involved in community outreach programs related to cardiovascular health. These practices would serve as models for others and contribute significantly to improving the overall score. For example, a practice that integrates a registered dietitian or a certified diabetes educator into its team could be considered a standout.

Telemedicine adoption is a key component of a modern healthcare system, particularly in rural areas. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and medication refills via telehealth can significantly improve access to care for patients in Orbisonia. Practices that have embraced telemedicine will receive a higher score. This also involves assessing the availability of reliable internet access in the area, as this is a prerequisite for effective telehealth implementation. The more comprehensive the telemedicine offerings, the better the score.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in the context of hypertension, but their impact is undeniable. Stress, anxiety, and depression can all contribute to elevated blood pressure. The availability of mental health services, either within primary care practices or through referral networks, is a crucial factor. Practices that recognize the link between mental and physical health and provide access to counseling, therapy, or psychiatric care will receive a higher score. A practice that integrates behavioral health specialists into its team would be considered a standout.

Medication adherence is a major challenge in hypertension management. Practices that implement strategies to improve medication adherence, such as medication reconciliation programs, reminder systems, and patient education materials, will be recognized. This could involve partnerships with local pharmacies to provide medication synchronization services or offering home delivery options. The more proactive the practice is in addressing medication adherence, the better the score.

Patient education is another critical component. Practices that provide comprehensive patient education materials, including information on lifestyle modifications such as diet, exercise, and stress management, will be favored. This could include offering group education sessions, providing personalized counseling, or utilizing digital resources like mobile apps or online portals. The quality and accessibility of patient education materials will significantly impact the score.

Community outreach and engagement are important. Practices that actively participate in community health initiatives, such as health fairs or screening programs, will be recognized. This could involve partnering with local organizations to promote healthy lifestyles or providing free blood pressure screenings. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to improving the overall health of the community will receive a higher score.

The "Hypertension Score" for Orbisonia, PA (17243) would be a dynamic measure, subject to change as healthcare practices evolve and new resources become available. It is a reflection of the collective effort of local physicians, healthcare providers, and the community as a whole. The score can serve as a benchmark for improvement, highlighting areas where resources need to be strengthened and innovative approaches can be implemented. It's a snapshot of the current landscape.

Ultimately, improving the "Hypertension Score" in Orbisonia requires a multi-faceted approach. It involves addressing physician shortages, promoting the adoption of telemedicine, integrating mental health services, emphasizing patient education, and fostering community partnerships. The goal is to create a healthcare system that is accessible, comprehensive, and effective in managing hypertension, leading to improved health outcomes for the residents of Orbisonia.