17768, Shunk, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 17768, Shunk, Pennsylvania is 86 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.27 percent of the residents in 17768 has some form of health insurance. 45.87 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.40 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 17768 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 56 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17768. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 109 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 57 health care providers accessible to residents in 17768, Shunk, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: ZIP Code 17768 & Primary Care in Shunk

This analysis delves into the landscape of hypertension management within ZIP Code 17768, focusing on physician availability, practice characteristics, and the broader context of primary care accessibility, particularly in the nearby community of Shunk. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the resources available to patients managing hypertension and to identify areas for potential improvement.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of access to care. In ZIP Code 17768, a rural area, this ratio is likely to be a significant factor. Examining the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) and cardiologists per capita is essential. This data must be contextualized by considering the age distribution of the population, as older demographics often have a higher prevalence of hypertension. The availability of specialists, such as nephrologists, is also important, as kidney disease is a common comorbidity associated with hypertension.

Standout practices within the 17768 ZIP code would likely be those that demonstrate a proactive approach to hypertension management. This includes practices that prioritize regular blood pressure screenings, provide patient education on lifestyle modifications (diet, exercise, stress management), and effectively utilize medication management protocols. Practices that offer extended hours, weekend appointments, or same-day appointments can improve patient convenience and adherence to treatment plans. The implementation of electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate data tracking and medication reconciliation is another key characteristic of high-performing practices.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas where geographical barriers can limit access to care. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring (RPM) of blood pressure, and medication refills via telehealth platforms are likely to have a positive impact on patient outcomes. Telemedicine can also facilitate communication between patients and their healthcare providers, leading to improved adherence to treatment plans and early detection of potential complications.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in the context of hypertension management, but they play a crucial role. Chronic stress and anxiety can contribute to elevated blood pressure. Practices that integrate mental health services, such as counseling or access to mental health professionals, can provide a more holistic approach to patient care. Collaboration between PCPs and mental health providers can improve patient outcomes and overall well-being.

The availability of primary care in the small community of Shunk, Pennsylvania, presents a unique challenge. Due to its small population and rural location, the availability of PCPs is likely to be limited. This scarcity necessitates a focus on innovative solutions to ensure access to care for residents.

The impact of limited primary care availability in Shunk extends beyond the direct management of hypertension. It can also affect the early detection of the condition, as individuals may not have regular access to screenings and checkups. The lack of convenient access to care can lead to delayed diagnoses and treatment, potentially resulting in serious health complications.

The success of hypertension management in Shunk depends on the ability of patients to access care. This may involve traveling to neighboring communities for appointments. Telemedicine can play a crucial role in bridging the gap, allowing residents to connect with healthcare providers remotely. Mobile health clinics, which bring healthcare services directly to the community, could also be a viable solution.

In ZIP Code 17768, the presence of community health centers or federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) is a positive indicator. These facilities often provide comprehensive primary care services, including hypertension management, to underserved populations. They may also offer sliding-scale fees and other financial assistance programs, making healthcare more accessible to low-income individuals.

The availability of pharmacy services is another important consideration. Convenient access to pharmacies that offer medication counseling and adherence support can improve patient outcomes. Collaboration between PCPs and pharmacists can ensure that patients receive the appropriate medications and understand how to take them correctly.

The overall effectiveness of hypertension management in the 17768 ZIP code is a complex issue. It requires a multi-faceted approach that addresses physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the broader context of primary care access, especially in surrounding communities like Shunk.

Data-driven decision-making is essential for improving hypertension management. This includes collecting and analyzing data on patient demographics, prevalence of hypertension, treatment outcomes, and access to care. This information can be used to identify areas for improvement and to develop targeted interventions.

The utilization of evidence-based guidelines is a cornerstone of effective hypertension management. Practices should adhere to the latest guidelines from organizations such as the American Heart Association (AHA) and the American College of Cardiology (ACC). This ensures that patients receive the most up-to-date and effective treatments.

Patient education and engagement are critical components of successful hypertension management. Patients should be empowered to take an active role in their own care. This includes providing them with information about their condition, treatment options, and lifestyle modifications. Patient education materials should be culturally sensitive and tailored to the needs of the individual.

The role of community outreach programs should not be overlooked. These programs can raise awareness about hypertension, promote healthy lifestyles, and connect individuals with healthcare resources. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local businesses can create a supportive environment for individuals managing hypertension.

The analysis of hypertension management in ZIP Code 17768 and the surrounding areas reveals a complex landscape. Addressing the challenges requires a concerted effort from healthcare providers, policymakers, and community organizations. By focusing on physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and primary care access, it is possible to improve patient outcomes and reduce the burden of hypertension.

Are you interested in visualizing the healthcare landscape of ZIP Code 17768 and the surrounding areas? CartoChrome maps provide interactive visualizations of geographic data, including physician locations, population demographics, and healthcare resource availability. Explore the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment.