17750, Mackeyville, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 17750, Mackeyville, Pennsylvania is 15 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 7.48 percent of the residents in 17750 has some form of health insurance. 3.74 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 3.74 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 17750 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 66 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17750. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 0 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 660 health care providers accessible to residents in 17750, Mackeyville, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 17750 & Primary Care in Mackeyville

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care physicians within ZIP Code 17750, focusing specifically on factors relevant to hypertension management. The analysis will consider physician-to-patient ratios, the prominence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial elements in providing comprehensive care for individuals managing hypertension. The geographic focus is Mackeyville, Pennsylvania, a small community where access to healthcare can be a significant challenge.

Evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio in 17750 is paramount. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of primary care physicians, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially, a delay in diagnosis or treatment adjustments for those with hypertension. Data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, coupled with information from local healthcare providers, is necessary to determine the precise ratio. This data should be regularly updated to reflect changes in physician availability and population demographics. The presence of a high physician-to-patient ratio would negatively impact the overall Hypertension Score.

Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes evaluating practices that demonstrate a commitment to hypertension management through the use of evidence-based guidelines, patient education programs, and proactive monitoring. Factors to consider include the availability of registered nurses or certified diabetes educators who can provide specialized care, the use of electronic health records (EHRs) to facilitate data tracking and analysis, and the implementation of patient portals for improved communication and access to information. Practices that consistently achieve positive patient outcomes, as measured by blood pressure control rates and patient satisfaction surveys, should be recognized as exemplary.

The adoption of telemedicine is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas like Mackeyville. Telemedicine offers the potential to improve access to care by enabling remote consultations, medication management, and monitoring of blood pressure readings. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, providing virtual appointments and remote monitoring devices, can significantly enhance the Hypertension Score. The availability of telehealth options can be particularly beneficial for patients who have difficulty traveling to in-person appointments due to distance, mobility issues, or transportation limitations. The analysis should consider the types of telemedicine services offered, the ease of use for patients, and the integration of telemedicine data into the patient's EHR.

The integration of mental health resources is another crucial factor in hypertension management. Stress and mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression, can significantly impact blood pressure. Practices that offer access to mental health professionals, either through on-site therapists or referral networks, are better equipped to provide holistic care. The analysis should consider the availability of mental health services, the ease of access to these services, and the integration of mental health screening and treatment into the overall care plan. A practice that addresses both physical and mental health needs will score higher on the Hypertension Score.

The availability of resources for patient education is also critical. Patients need to understand their condition, the importance of medication adherence, and lifestyle modifications such as diet and exercise. Practices that provide patient education materials, group classes, or individual counseling sessions will score higher. This includes providing access to educational materials in multiple languages, if applicable, and ensuring that patients have a clear understanding of their treatment plan.

The level of collaboration between primary care physicians and specialists, such as cardiologists and nephrologists, is also important. A well-coordinated care plan, with clear communication and information sharing between providers, can lead to better patient outcomes. The analysis should assess the referral patterns of primary care physicians, the ease of communication with specialists, and the use of shared care plans.

The overall Hypertension Score for physicians in 17750 should reflect a comprehensive assessment of these factors. A higher score indicates better access to care, a greater emphasis on evidence-based practices, and a more patient-centered approach to hypertension management. The score should be regularly updated to reflect changes in physician availability, the adoption of new technologies, and improvements in care quality.

The impact of socioeconomic factors on hypertension management must also be considered. Factors such as income, education level, and access to healthy food options can significantly influence a patient's ability to manage their condition. The analysis should consider the socioeconomic profile of the population served by the primary care physicians in 17750 and the resources available to address these challenges. This might include partnerships with local food banks or community health organizations.

In conclusion, improving hypertension management in Mackeyville and the surrounding area requires a multi-pronged approach. This includes ensuring adequate physician-to-patient ratios, supporting standout practices, promoting the adoption of telemedicine, integrating mental health resources, and providing comprehensive patient education. A thorough analysis of these factors is essential for understanding the current state of care and identifying areas for improvement.

To gain a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in 17750, including the location of physicians, healthcare facilities, and relevant demographic data, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a spatial understanding of healthcare access, allowing for a more informed assessment of the challenges and opportunities in hypertension management within the community.