17246, Pleasant Hall, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 17246, Pleasant Hall, Pennsylvania is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 68.38 percent of the residents in 17246 has some form of health insurance. 43.81 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 39.86 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 17246 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 148 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 10 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17246. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 57 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 9,974 health care providers accessible to residents in 17246, Pleasant Hall, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Pleasant Hall, PA (ZIP Code 17246)

Analyzing the landscape of healthcare within ZIP Code 17246, encompassing Pleasant Hall, Pennsylvania, requires a deep dive into the availability of primary care physicians, their approach to hypertension management, and the resources available to support patient well-being. This analysis, presented as a 'Hypertension Score,' evaluates the area's capacity to effectively address the challenges of hypertension, a prevalent condition demanding proactive and accessible care.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical starting point. The ideal scenario involves a sufficient number of primary care physicians (PCPs) to meet the needs of the population. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to appointment delays, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially, compromised care. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility. Determining the precise ratio for 17246 requires access to publicly available data, such as the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) data, or potentially, proprietary datasets. Without specific numbers, we can infer that Pleasant Hall, being a rural community, might face challenges in physician recruitment and retention. This, in turn, could impact the physician-to-patient ratio.

The quality of primary care directly influences hypertension management. Effective practices prioritize regular blood pressure monitoring, lifestyle counseling (diet, exercise, smoking cessation), and medication management when necessary. A high-scoring practice would demonstrate a commitment to evidence-based guidelines, utilizing electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient data, and employing a team-based approach involving nurses, medical assistants, and potentially, pharmacists. The presence of certified hypertension specialists or physicians with a demonstrated interest in cardiovascular health would further elevate the score.

Standout practices within the area would likely exhibit several key characteristics. They might offer extended hours, including evening or weekend appointments, to accommodate patients' schedules. They could also integrate patient portals, allowing patients to access their medical records, communicate with their physicians, and schedule appointments online. Furthermore, a commitment to patient education, providing resources and support for lifestyle modifications, would be a hallmark of a high-performing practice. These practices would likely be actively involved in community outreach, promoting health awareness and screening programs.

Telemedicine adoption plays an increasingly important role in healthcare delivery, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care, particularly for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. A high Hypertension Score would reflect a significant level of telemedicine integration, including virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and the use of telehealth platforms for patient education. The ease of access to these services significantly impacts the overall score.

Mental health is inextricably linked to hypertension management. Stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure and overall cardiovascular health. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the community is crucial. A high-scoring area would have readily accessible mental health services, including therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists. Integration of mental health services within primary care practices, such as on-site therapists or referral pathways, would be highly desirable. The ability to address the psychological factors contributing to hypertension is essential for effective treatment.

The presence of ancillary services, such as on-site pharmacies, laboratory services, and diagnostic imaging, further enhances the Hypertension Score. These services streamline the patient experience, making it easier for individuals to access the care they need. The integration of these services within primary care practices contributes to a more comprehensive and coordinated approach to hypertension management. Proximity to a hospital with a cardiology department would also be a positive factor.

Evaluating the specific practices in Pleasant Hall, PA, requires accessing information on individual physician practices, their staffing, services offered, and patient reviews. This information is often available through online directories, insurance provider websites, and patient feedback platforms. Analyzing this data allows for a more granular assessment of each practice's performance.

A comprehensive Hypertension Score for Pleasant Hall, PA (17246) would consider all the factors mentioned above, assigning weights to each based on its relative importance. The final score would reflect the area's overall capacity to effectively manage hypertension, considering factors such as physician availability, quality of care, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and ancillary services.

Ultimately, understanding the healthcare landscape in Pleasant Hall is crucial for residents seeking to manage their health. This analysis provides a framework for evaluating the available resources and identifying areas for improvement. For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Pleasant Hall, including the location of physician practices, hospitals, and pharmacies, consider using CartoChrome maps.