17745, Lock Haven, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 17745, Lock Haven, Pennsylvania is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.64 percent of the residents in 17745 has some form of health insurance. 38.44 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.88 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 17745 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,177 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17745. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,098 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 684 health care providers accessible to residents in 17745, Lock Haven, Pennsylvania.

The analysis of hypertension management within ZIP Code 17745, encompassing the Lock Haven area, reveals a complex landscape of primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, and the integration of innovative healthcare practices. This assessment aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the resources available to patients managing hypertension, highlighting both strengths and areas needing improvement.

Primary care access is a foundational element in effective hypertension control. Lock Haven, a relatively rural area, faces challenges common to such locations. Physician shortages, particularly in primary care, can strain the healthcare system. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A high ratio, indicating fewer doctors for a larger population, can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially less proactive management of chronic conditions like hypertension. Assessing the specific physician-to-patient ratio within 17745 requires data analysis, comparing the number of primary care physicians practicing in the area to the total population. Publicly available data, such as those from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or state medical boards, can provide this information.

Beyond raw numbers, the distribution of primary care practices matters. Are practices concentrated in one part of town, leaving other areas underserved? Are there sufficient practices accepting new patients, or are waitlists common? These factors influence a patient's ability to establish a consistent relationship with a primary care physician, a cornerstone of effective hypertension management. Regular check-ups, medication adjustments, and lifestyle counseling are essential for controlling blood pressure, and these are most effectively delivered within a stable patient-physician relationship.

Identifying standout practices within 17745 involves evaluating their approach to hypertension care. This includes assessing their use of evidence-based guidelines, their patient education programs, and their integration of technology. Practices that proactively monitor patients' blood pressure, provide clear instructions on medication adherence, and offer support for lifestyle changes (diet, exercise, stress management) are more likely to achieve positive outcomes. Reviewing patient feedback, when available, can also offer insights into the quality of care provided.

The adoption of telemedicine is another crucial aspect of modern healthcare, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to access consultations, medication refills, and remote monitoring services from the comfort of their homes. Practices that have embraced telemedicine for hypertension management can potentially improve patient adherence to treatment plans and reduce the need for frequent in-person visits. The availability of remote blood pressure monitoring devices, coupled with telehealth consultations, can empower patients to actively participate in their own care.

The link between mental health and hypertension is increasingly recognized. Stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure levels. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the Lock Haven area is a critical consideration. Are primary care practices equipped to screen for mental health conditions? Do they have established referral pathways to mental health professionals? Access to therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists is essential for addressing the psychological factors that can contribute to uncontrolled hypertension. Integrated care models, where mental health services are offered within the primary care setting, can be particularly beneficial.

Specific practices within 17745 may demonstrate exceptional commitment to hypertension management. Identifying these practices requires a detailed investigation. This includes examining their website for information on their approach to hypertension care, contacting the practices directly to inquire about their services, and reviewing patient testimonials. Look for practices that emphasize patient education, offer convenient appointment scheduling, and actively engage patients in their treatment plans. Practices that participate in quality improvement initiatives, such as those focused on hypertension control, are also good candidates.

The overall 'Hypertension Score' for doctors in 17745 is a composite measure, reflecting the factors discussed above. It considers the physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the quality of care provided by individual practices. A higher score indicates a more favorable environment for patients managing hypertension. A lower score signals areas where improvements are needed.

For example, a practice with a high physician-to-patient ratio, limited telemedicine capabilities, and no readily available mental health referrals would likely receive a lower score. Conversely, a practice with a favorable ratio, robust telemedicine options, integrated mental health services, and a strong focus on patient education would likely receive a higher score.

Improving hypertension management in Lock Haven requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes addressing physician shortages, promoting the adoption of telemedicine, expanding access to mental health resources, and supporting practices in implementing evidence-based guidelines. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government is essential.

To gain a more visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Lock Haven and the surrounding areas, including the distribution of primary care practices, the location of telemedicine providers, and the availability of mental health resources, we encourage you to explore interactive maps. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful platform for visualizing this data, allowing you to identify areas with high and low access to care, visualize physician density, and pinpoint potential gaps in services.