17368, Wrightsville, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 17368, Wrightsville, Pennsylvania is 81 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.09 percent of the residents in 17368 has some form of health insurance. 28.58 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.84 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 17368 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,440 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17368. An estimate of 47 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,061 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 14,157 health care providers accessible to residents in 17368, Wrightsville, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Wrightsville, PA (ZIP Code 17368)

Analyzing the healthcare landscape within Wrightsville, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17368), requires a multifaceted approach, particularly when assessing hypertension management. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial factors impacting a community's ability to effectively combat hypertension. This is not a simple ranking but a contextualized evaluation of the existing resources and their potential impact on patient outcomes.

The foundation of hypertension control rests on accessible primary care. Within Wrightsville, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical determinant of the community's health. The number of PCPs per capita, often expressed as a physician-to-patient ratio, provides a crucial metric. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of PCPs, can lead to delayed diagnoses, infrequent follow-up appointments, and ultimately, poorer blood pressure control. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater access to care, potentially leading to improved patient outcomes. Precise physician-to-patient ratio data is difficult to obtain without a comprehensive, real-time census of practicing physicians and the population they serve. However, publicly available databases and local health authorities can provide estimates.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of care offered by individual practices significantly influences hypertension management. Identifying "standout practices" involves evaluating several factors. These include the use of evidence-based guidelines for hypertension treatment, the implementation of patient education programs, and the utilization of electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient progress and facilitate communication. Practices that proactively monitor patient blood pressure, offer lifestyle counseling, and provide medication management support are more likely to achieve positive outcomes. Reviews and testimonials from patients, along with data on patient outcomes (e.g., blood pressure control rates), can help identify these high-performing practices.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in hypertension management, especially in rural or underserved areas. Its adoption within Wrightsville is an important consideration. Telemedicine allows patients to remotely monitor their blood pressure, receive virtual consultations, and access medication refills, potentially reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. Practices that embrace telemedicine can improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. The availability of secure video conferencing platforms, remote monitoring devices, and patient portals are all indicators of a practice's commitment to telemedicine.

The link between mental health and hypertension is well-established. Stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure levels and adherence to treatment plans. Therefore, the integration of mental health resources within primary care practices is crucial. Practices that offer on-site mental health services, or have strong referral networks to mental health professionals, are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients. This integration can improve patient outcomes by addressing the psychological factors that contribute to uncontrolled hypertension. The presence of behavioral health specialists, therapists, or psychiatrists within the practice, or readily accessible referrals, are key indicators of this integration.

The effectiveness of hypertension management also depends on the resources available outside of physician practices. This includes access to pharmacies for medication refills, availability of community health programs promoting healthy lifestyles, and access to affordable healthy food options. The presence of these resources can support patients in managing their condition effectively. The proximity of pharmacies, the availability of community-based exercise programs, and access to fresh produce markets all contribute to a supportive environment for hypertension control.

A comprehensive analysis would also consider the demographics of Wrightsville. The age distribution, socioeconomic status, and racial composition of the community can influence the prevalence of hypertension and the challenges faced in its management. Understanding these demographic factors allows for a more targeted and effective approach to healthcare delivery. For example, a community with a large elderly population may require more resources focused on geriatric care and medication management.

Evaluating the healthcare landscape in Wrightsville requires a dynamic approach. The information available is constantly changing. Physician availability, the adoption of new technologies, and the evolution of healthcare practices are all ongoing processes. Therefore, any assessment needs to be regularly updated to reflect the current state of affairs.

In conclusion, assessing hypertension management in Wrightsville, PA (ZIP code 17368), necessitates a thorough examination of primary care access, physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of individual practices, telemedicine adoption, the integration of mental health resources, and the availability of community support. While a precise ranking is challenging without access to real-time data, a comprehensive evaluation of these factors provides a valuable understanding of the healthcare landscape and its impact on patient outcomes.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare resources available in Wrightsville and the surrounding areas, including the locations of physician practices, pharmacies, and other relevant facilities, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps. They provide a powerful tool for visualizing and analyzing healthcare data, enabling you to make informed decisions about your healthcare options.