17249, Rockhill Furnace, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 17249, Rockhill Furnace, Pennsylvania is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.89 percent of the residents in 17249 has some form of health insurance. 48.95 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.87 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 17249 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 70 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17249. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 69 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 40 health care providers accessible to residents in 17249, Rockhill Furnace, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: ZIP Code 17249 & Primary Care in Rockhill Furnace

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality within ZIP Code 17249, encompassing areas like McConnellsburg, Pennsylvania, and specifically focusing on primary care availability in the nearby Rockhill Furnace, requires a multi-faceted approach. We'll develop a hypothetical "Hypertension Score" to assess the landscape, factoring in physician availability, resource utilization, and innovative healthcare practices. This score, while not a real-world metric, will serve as a framework to understand the complexities of managing hypertension within this rural setting.

The foundation of our analysis rests on the fundamental aspect of physician-to-patient ratios. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, presents a significant challenge. In 17249, a rural area, the physician shortage is likely a prominent concern. Data from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and state medical boards would be crucial in determining the actual ratio. A low ratio necessitates longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment of hypertension. This directly impacts the Hypertension Score, lowering it due to reduced access to care.

Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of primary care physicians (PCPs) is vital. Are PCPs concentrated in a single location, or are they dispersed across the ZIP code and surrounding areas? The presence of a centralized clinic versus multiple smaller practices impacts patient convenience and access. The closer the clinic to Rockhill Furnace, the better. Consider factors such as transportation challenges, particularly for elderly patients or those with limited mobility. The availability of public transportation or the need for personal vehicles further influences the accessibility of primary care services.

Standout practices, those demonstrating excellence in hypertension management, can significantly elevate the Hypertension Score. These practices often employ evidence-based guidelines, such as those recommended by the American Heart Association (AHA) and the American College of Cardiology (ACC). They may implement robust patient education programs, empowering individuals to manage their condition through lifestyle modifications, medication adherence, and regular monitoring. Practices utilizing electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient data management and medication reconciliation also contribute positively. Furthermore, practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, tracking patient outcomes and making adjustments to improve care, would receive a higher score.

Telemedicine adoption represents a crucial element in bridging the geographical barriers inherent in rural healthcare. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring of blood pressure, and medication management via telehealth can significantly enhance access to care, particularly for patients in Rockhill Furnace. Practices that embrace telemedicine, providing secure and user-friendly platforms, can improve the Hypertension Score. This includes the availability of remote blood pressure monitoring devices and the ability of physicians to remotely review patient data and adjust treatment plans accordingly. The ease of use and patient acceptance of telemedicine services are also critical factors.

Mental health resources play a critical, often overlooked, role in hypertension management. Stress and anxiety can significantly elevate blood pressure, making it essential to address the psychological well-being of patients. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs), within the ZIP code or easily accessible from it, is a significant factor. Practices that integrate mental health services into their primary care model, offering screening for depression and anxiety, and facilitating referrals to mental health providers, would receive a higher score. The availability of support groups and educational resources on stress management further enhances the score.

The level of community resources impacts the overall score. Are there local pharmacies with pharmacists who can provide medication counseling? Are there community health programs focused on hypertension prevention and management? The availability of affordable healthy food options and opportunities for physical activity, such as walking trails or community fitness classes, can contribute to improved patient outcomes. The presence of these resources indicates a supportive environment for managing hypertension, thereby improving the Hypertension Score.

The overall Hypertension Score would be a composite measure, reflecting the weighted average of all these factors. A high score would indicate a robust healthcare infrastructure, with ample physician availability, innovative practices, and comprehensive resources. A low score would highlight areas for improvement, such as physician shortages, limited access to specialized care, and a lack of community support.

To improve the score, several actions are necessary. Recruitment of additional PCPs is paramount. Supporting existing practices in adopting telemedicine and implementing evidence-based hypertension management protocols is crucial. Expanding mental health services and promoting community-based health programs can also significantly impact patient outcomes. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government is essential to create a supportive environment for managing hypertension.

Understanding the spatial relationships between these factors is also vital. CartoChrome maps, with their ability to visualize geographical data, can provide a powerful tool for analyzing the healthcare landscape. By mapping physician locations, patient demographics, and the availability of resources, CartoChrome can help identify areas of greatest need and inform strategic planning efforts. It allows for a visual understanding of access challenges and opportunities for improvement.

Are you interested in gaining a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in ZIP Code 17249 and Rockhill Furnace? **Explore the power of spatial data visualization with CartoChrome maps. Contact us today to learn how we can help you analyze healthcare accessibility and improve patient outcomes.**