17702, Williamsport, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 17702, Williamsport, Pennsylvania is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.54 percent of the residents in 17702 has some form of health insurance. 37.86 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.88 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 17702 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,259 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17702. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,098 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,270 health care providers accessible to residents in 17702, Williamsport, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Williamsport, PA (ZIP Code 17702)

Analyzing the landscape of hypertension management within Williamsport, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17702) requires a multi-faceted approach. We must assess the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs), their practices regarding hypertension treatment, the integration of telehealth, and the accessibility of mental health resources, all crucial elements in effectively managing this prevalent condition. This analysis will provide a 'Hypertension Score' perspective, evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem.

The cornerstone of hypertension management is access to a PCP. In Williamsport, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. A higher ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced patient follow-up, and potentially, inadequate management of hypertension. The specific ratio requires detailed investigation. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) can provide this information, allowing for a preliminary assessment of the PCP availability. The ideal scenario involves a sufficient number of PCPs to meet the community's needs, ensuring timely access to care.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This includes adherence to evidence-based guidelines for hypertension diagnosis and treatment. Do the local PCPs consistently utilize current guidelines from organizations like the American Heart Association (AHA) and the American College of Cardiology (ACC)? Are they routinely measuring blood pressure accurately, using appropriate diagnostic tools, and prescribing the recommended medications? These are key indicators of quality care. Patient reviews, practice websites, and potentially, publicly available performance data (if available) can offer insights into the practices of individual physicians.

Standout practices within the Williamsport healthcare community deserve recognition. These are the clinics and individual physicians who demonstrate a commitment to excellence in hypertension management. They may excel in patient education, offering comprehensive resources and support to help patients understand their condition and adhere to treatment plans. They might implement innovative approaches to patient monitoring, such as remote blood pressure monitoring or automated appointment reminders. Identifying these standout practices can help patients make informed choices and potentially improve their health outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial aspect of the 'Hypertension Score'. The ability to offer virtual consultations, medication management, and remote monitoring can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas. The extent of telemedicine integration among PCPs in Williamsport should be carefully evaluated. Do they offer virtual appointments for routine follow-ups? Are they using remote blood pressure monitoring devices? The wider the adoption of telemedicine, the better the 'Hypertension Score' will be, reflecting a more patient-centric and accessible healthcare system.

Mental health is inextricably linked to hypertension management. Stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure control. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the Williamsport healthcare ecosystem is a critical factor. Do PCPs have established referral pathways to mental health professionals? Are there readily accessible mental health services, such as therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups, within the community? A comprehensive approach to hypertension management must address both the physical and mental well-being of patients.

The assessment of the 'Hypertension Score' also necessitates an evaluation of patient education and support. Are PCPs actively educating patients about lifestyle modifications, such as diet, exercise, and stress management? Do they provide resources and support to help patients make these changes? Patient education is a cornerstone of effective hypertension management, empowering individuals to take control of their health.

Furthermore, the presence of community resources, such as free or low-cost blood pressure screenings, support groups, and educational programs, can significantly impact the 'Hypertension Score'. These resources can help to raise awareness about hypertension, promote early detection, and provide ongoing support to patients. The availability and accessibility of these resources should be carefully considered.

The 'Hypertension Score' is not a static number; it is a dynamic assessment of the healthcare environment. It should be continually updated to reflect changes in physician availability, practice patterns, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health and community resources. Regular monitoring and analysis are essential to identify areas for improvement and ensure that the community has access to the best possible care for hypertension management.

In conclusion, the 'Hypertension Score' for Williamsport, PA (ZIP code 17702) is a complex evaluation that considers multiple factors. It requires a thorough assessment of physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of primary care, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and patient education and support. By understanding these factors, we can gain a comprehensive understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem and identify opportunities to improve hypertension management.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Williamsport, including the location of PCPs, hospitals, and other relevant resources, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome can provide a valuable spatial perspective, allowing you to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources and identify potential areas of need.