17810, Allenwood, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 17810, Allenwood, Pennsylvania is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 27.15 percent of the residents in 17810 has some form of health insurance. 14.51 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 16.54 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 17810 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 727 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17810. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 307 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,812 health care providers accessible to residents in 17810, Allenwood, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Allenwood, PA (ZIP Code 17810)

Allenwood, Pennsylvania, nestled within ZIP code 17810, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access and management, particularly concerning hypertension. This analysis aims to provide a granular understanding of the available resources, physician-to-patient ratios, and the overall environment for primary care, with a specific focus on hypertension management. This is a critical undertaking, as effective hypertension control is vital for preventing serious cardiovascular events and improving the overall health of the community.

The first, and arguably most critical, factor to consider is the physician-to-patient ratio. Determining this accurately requires data beyond simple population numbers. We must consider the number of actively practicing primary care physicians (PCPs) within the 17810 ZIP code, their patient load capacity, and the age distribution of the population. Areas with a higher proportion of elderly residents, who are statistically more prone to hypertension, will naturally require a greater concentration of healthcare resources. This data, unfortunately, is not always readily available in a consolidated, publicly accessible format. However, we can infer a general picture.

Given the rural nature of Allenwood, it is reasonable to assume that the physician-to-patient ratio may be less favorable than in more urbanized areas. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time per patient visit, and potentially less comprehensive care, particularly for chronic conditions like hypertension. The impact of this is significant, as it affects the ability of patients to receive timely diagnosis, medication management, and lifestyle counseling.

The availability of primary care is further complicated by the presence of specialist physicians. While specialists are essential for managing complex cases, a strong foundation of primary care is crucial for preventative care, early detection, and ongoing management of chronic conditions. The presence of specialists, while beneficial, should not detract from the need for robust primary care access.

Identifying standout practices within the 17810 ZIP code is crucial. These practices would ideally demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive hypertension management, including regular blood pressure monitoring, medication adherence support, lifestyle modification counseling, and patient education. These practices often employ a team-based approach, involving physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to provide holistic care.

The presence of certified diabetes educators or registered dietitians within a practice is a significant indicator of a commitment to hypertension management, as these professionals can provide invaluable support in areas like diet and exercise, which are crucial for blood pressure control. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate data tracking and patient communication is another important factor. Practices utilizing EHRs can more effectively monitor patient progress, identify potential issues, and tailor treatment plans accordingly.

Telemedicine adoption presents a significant opportunity to improve access to care, especially in rural areas like Allenwood. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving appointment availability. This is particularly beneficial for patients with mobility issues or those who live far from their primary care provider.

The extent of telemedicine adoption among practices in 17810 should be assessed. Do practices offer virtual consultations for medication refills, blood pressure monitoring, and follow-up appointments? Are they utilizing remote patient monitoring technologies to track blood pressure and other vital signs? Practices that embrace telemedicine are likely to be more accessible and responsive to the needs of their patients.

Mental health resources are also a critical component of hypertension management. Stress and anxiety can significantly impact blood pressure, and addressing these issues is essential for effective control. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, within the community or through referral networks is an important factor.

Practices that integrate mental health services into their care model are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients. This may involve on-site mental health professionals, partnerships with local mental health providers, or the use of telehealth platforms to connect patients with mental health services.

Furthermore, the availability of support groups and educational resources for patients with hypertension is essential. These resources can provide patients with the knowledge and support they need to manage their condition effectively. Local hospitals, community centers, and patient advocacy groups can play a vital role in providing these resources.

The availability of pharmacies within the community is another crucial factor. Easy access to medication refills and the ability to consult with a pharmacist regarding medication management are essential for patients with hypertension. The presence of 24-hour pharmacies or pharmacies with extended hours can be particularly beneficial.

The overall "Hypertension Score" for Allenwood, PA (17810) would be a composite of all these factors. It would reflect the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the access to pharmacies and support groups.

Based on the available information, it is difficult to provide a definitive "Hypertension Score" for Allenwood. However, based on the rural nature of the area, it is likely that access to care may be a challenge. The physician-to-patient ratio may be unfavorable, and the availability of specialists may not fully compensate for the need for robust primary care.

The success of hypertension management in Allenwood will depend on the collaboration of healthcare providers, community organizations, and individual patients. Efforts to improve access to care, promote healthy lifestyles, and provide comprehensive support are essential for improving the health of the community.

For a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Allenwood and the surrounding areas, including detailed information on physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to resources, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. CartoChrome’s mapping tools can help you visualize the availability of healthcare resources and identify potential gaps in care.