17760, North Bend, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 17760, North Bend, Pennsylvania is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.38 percent of the residents in 17760 has some form of health insurance. 40.69 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.64 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 17760 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 153 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17760. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 146 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 280 health care providers accessible to residents in 17760, North Bend, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 17760 and Primary Care Availability in North Bend

Analyzing healthcare access and quality within a specific geographic area requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on ZIP Code 17760, encompassing the area of North Bend, Pennsylvania, and aims to assess the availability of primary care physicians and related resources relevant to managing hypertension. We'll evaluate the landscape through the lens of a "Hypertension Score," considering factors that impact the diagnosis, treatment, and long-term management of this prevalent condition.

The foundation of effective hypertension management lies in accessible primary care. This includes the availability of physicians, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants who can provide regular checkups, screenings, and medication management. A critical metric is the physician-to-patient ratio. In North Bend, the exact physician-to-patient ratio is difficult to pinpoint without access to proprietary data. However, we can infer general trends. Rural areas often face challenges in attracting and retaining healthcare professionals. This can result in a higher patient load per provider, potentially impacting the time available for each patient and the frequency of follow-up appointments. This scarcity can contribute to delayed diagnoses or inadequate management of chronic conditions like hypertension.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care practices is paramount. We need to consider the infrastructure, technology, and resources available. Standout practices are those that prioritize patient-centered care, incorporating elements like comprehensive health history reviews, lifestyle counseling, and patient education. These practices typically have robust systems for managing patient data, facilitating communication, and coordinating care with specialists when necessary. The presence of on-site laboratory services and pharmacies can also significantly improve convenience and adherence to treatment plans.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. In a rural setting like North Bend, telemedicine offers a valuable solution to overcome geographical barriers. It allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and enabling more frequent check-ins. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments for medication refills, blood pressure monitoring guidance, and general health consultations, are better positioned to provide continuous care, particularly for patients with chronic conditions like hypertension. The availability of remote blood pressure monitoring devices, coupled with telemedicine support, can empower patients to actively participate in managing their condition.

Mental health is inextricably linked to physical health, especially in the context of hypertension. Stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure levels and adherence to treatment plans. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is therefore crucial. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through on-site providers or referrals to external resources, demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care. This integration can help patients address the psychological factors that may contribute to their hypertension and improve their overall well-being.

The availability of specialists is also a consideration. While primary care physicians are the cornerstone of hypertension management, access to cardiologists and nephrologists is essential for patients with complex cases or complications. The proximity of specialists and the ease with which primary care physicians can refer patients for specialized care directly impact the quality of care.

Furthermore, the socio-economic factors of the community play a role. Patients facing financial constraints or limited access to healthy food options may struggle to manage their hypertension effectively. Practices that offer resources like financial assistance programs, nutritional counseling, and support groups can help bridge these gaps and improve patient outcomes.

To assess the "Hypertension Score" for doctors in ZIP Code 17760, we need to consider several factors. We must gather data on the number of primary care physicians, their patient load, the availability of telemedicine services, the presence of mental health resources, and the integration of patient education and support programs. A comprehensive evaluation would also include patient satisfaction surveys and data on hypertension control rates within the practices. The higher the physician-to-patient ratio, the less access to care. The less telemedicine availability, the less access to care. The less mental health integration, the less comprehensive the care. The less patient education, the less patient empowerment.

The "Hypertension Score" will be a composite measure, reflecting the overall capacity of the healthcare system in North Bend to effectively manage hypertension. A higher score would indicate greater accessibility, quality of care, and patient support. A lower score would highlight areas where improvements are needed.

In conclusion, evaluating the healthcare landscape in North Bend, Pennsylvania, requires a nuanced approach. The "Hypertension Score" is a useful framework for assessing the availability of primary care, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the overall quality of care. By analyzing these factors, we can identify strengths and weaknesses within the system and work towards improving healthcare access and outcomes for residents of ZIP Code 17760.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in North Bend, including the location of physicians, access to specialists, and demographic data, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps.