17729, Cross Fork, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 17729, Cross Fork, Pennsylvania is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.29 percent of the residents in 17729 has some form of health insurance. 53.33 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.90 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 17729 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 14 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17729. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 50 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1 health care providers accessible to residents in 17729, Cross Fork, Pennsylvania.

**Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 17729 and Primary Care Availability in Cross Fork**

This analysis delves into the landscape of hypertension care within ZIP code 17729, encompassing the town of Cross Fork, Pennsylvania, with a specific focus on primary care availability and related resources. We will evaluate the accessibility of physicians, the quality of care, and the integration of modern healthcare solutions, ultimately aiming to provide an informed perspective on the challenges and opportunities within this rural healthcare environment.

The cornerstone of effective hypertension management is readily accessible primary care. In Cross Fork, a remote area, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, often translates to longer wait times for appointments, reduced continuity of care, and potentially delayed diagnoses or treatment adjustments. Accurate data on this ratio is essential for understanding the local healthcare dynamics. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or state medical boards should be consulted to determine the current physician-to-patient ratio within the specified ZIP code. This ratio provides a baseline for assessing the overall accessibility of primary care services.

Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of primary care physicians is equally important. Are the available physicians concentrated in a single practice or dispersed throughout the community? The presence of multiple practices, even if the overall physician count is modest, can enhance patient choice and reduce the burden on any single provider. Furthermore, the types of primary care services offered must be considered. Do practices offer comprehensive care, including routine checkups, blood pressure monitoring, medication management, and patient education on lifestyle modifications? The availability of specialized services, such as cardiology consultations or access to registered dietitians, can further enhance the quality of hypertension care.

Identifying standout practices is key. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, evidence-based treatment protocols, and proactive patient outreach deserve recognition. This could include practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient data, implement automated reminders for appointments and medication refills, and actively engage patients in their own care through educational materials and support groups. Assessing the practices involves reviewing online patient reviews, examining the practice's website for information on services offered, and potentially contacting the practices directly to inquire about their approach to hypertension management.

Telemedicine has the potential to significantly improve access to care in rural areas like Cross Fork. The adoption of telemedicine technologies by local practices is a crucial factor in the overall hypertension score. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving adherence to treatment plans. The availability of virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring devices, and online patient portals can significantly enhance the accessibility and convenience of care. Assessing the telemedicine capabilities of local practices involves checking their websites, contacting them directly, and reviewing information from state medical boards.

Mental health is inextricably linked to hypertension management. Stress, anxiety, and depression can all contribute to elevated blood pressure and can also affect a patient’s ability to adhere to treatment plans. The availability of mental health resources within the community is therefore a critical component of a comprehensive hypertension care strategy. This includes access to therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices, such as on-site counseling or referrals to mental health specialists, can further improve patient outcomes. Assessing the availability of mental health resources involves researching local mental health providers, reviewing information from community health organizations, and inquiring with primary care practices about their approach to mental health integration.

The presence of community health initiatives and support programs also impacts the overall hypertension score. These programs may include free blood pressure screenings, health education workshops, and support groups for individuals with hypertension. Partnerships between healthcare providers and community organizations can create a more supportive environment for patients and promote healthy lifestyle choices. Identifying these initiatives involves researching local community health organizations, reviewing information from the county health department, and inquiring with primary care practices about their involvement in community outreach programs.

The challenges in Cross Fork are numerous. The remote location, limited access to specialists, and potential for social determinants of health to impact patient outcomes, create a complex environment. The success of hypertension management in this area relies on a multifaceted approach that addresses these challenges. This includes increasing the physician-to-patient ratio, promoting telemedicine adoption, integrating mental health services, and fostering community health initiatives.

The ‘Hypertension Score’ for doctors in ZIP code 17729 is not simply a numerical rating. It is a reflection of the overall quality, accessibility, and comprehensiveness of hypertension care within the community. The score should consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the distribution of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the presence of community health initiatives. Regular evaluation of these factors is essential for identifying areas for improvement and ensuring that residents of Cross Fork have access to the best possible care.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Cross Fork, including the location of primary care practices, the distribution of specialists, and the availability of community resources, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful tool for visualizing healthcare data and identifying areas of need.