17814, Benton, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 17814, Benton, Pennsylvania is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.18 percent of the residents in 17814 has some form of health insurance. 41.78 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.61 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 17814 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 913 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17814. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,178 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,257 health care providers accessible to residents in 17814, Benton, Pennsylvania.

This analysis assesses hypertension management capabilities within ZIP Code 17814, focusing on physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health support, all crucial elements in effective hypertension care. Our evaluation considers the primary care landscape in Benton, Pennsylvania, to provide a comprehensive understanding of the resources available to patients.

Benton, a small community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. The limited population density often translates to fewer healthcare providers, potentially impacting patient access to timely and consistent care. Analyzing the physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental starting point. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and reduced opportunities for preventative care, ultimately affecting hypertension control. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility. Precise physician-to-patient ratios for this specific ZIP code and surrounding areas are essential for a valid assessment. Publicly available data from sources like the U.S. Census Bureau and the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) can provide this crucial information.

Beyond raw numbers, the characteristics of primary care practices significantly influence hypertension management. We must examine the presence of certified hypertension specialists, as these physicians possess advanced training in diagnosing and treating this complex condition. Furthermore, the availability of on-site diagnostic equipment, such as ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) devices, streamlines the diagnostic process and facilitates more accurate blood pressure readings. The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) is another critical factor. EHRs enable seamless data sharing between providers, improving care coordination and facilitating the tracking of patient progress. Practices utilizing EHRs often demonstrate better adherence to clinical guidelines and improved patient outcomes.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for hypertension management, particularly in rural areas like Benton. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care. Practices that offer virtual blood pressure monitoring, medication management consultations, and educational resources are likely to achieve better patient outcomes. The level of telemedicine adoption within the primary care practices in ZIP Code 17814, including the types of services offered and the technology used, is a key aspect of our analysis.

The intricate relationship between mental health and hypertension underscores the importance of integrated care. Stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure control. Practices that offer or refer patients to mental health services are better positioned to provide holistic care. Assessing the availability of on-site mental health professionals, such as psychologists or counselors, or the presence of established referral networks with mental health providers is crucial. The integration of mental health services into primary care settings can improve patient adherence to medication regimens, promote lifestyle modifications, and ultimately, lead to better blood pressure control.

Identifying standout practices within ZIP Code 17814 is a key goal. These practices often demonstrate exemplary hypertension management strategies, including a commitment to evidence-based medicine, patient education, and proactive monitoring. Features of standout practices include: a dedicated hypertension care team, including nurses and medical assistants trained in hypertension management; patient education programs that emphasize lifestyle modifications, such as diet and exercise; and regular blood pressure screenings and follow-up appointments. These practices may also have implemented patient portals that allow patients to access their medical records, communicate with their providers, and track their blood pressure readings.

The analysis of primary care availability in Benton must also consider the geographic distribution of practices. Are the available practices clustered in one area, or are they distributed throughout the community? This distribution impacts patient access, particularly for those with limited transportation options. Public transportation availability and the average travel time to the nearest primary care practice are also important factors to consider. Furthermore, the insurance plans accepted by each practice must be evaluated to ensure that patients have access to affordable care.

Our assessment will also explore the use of patient education materials. Practices that provide patients with clear, concise, and culturally sensitive educational resources are more likely to empower patients to take an active role in their care. These resources may include brochures, pamphlets, online videos, or group education sessions. The availability of resources in multiple languages is particularly important in areas with diverse populations.

In addition to the factors already discussed, the analysis will consider the use of technology to improve hypertension management. Practices that utilize remote patient monitoring (RPM) devices, such as Bluetooth-enabled blood pressure cuffs, can track patient blood pressure readings remotely and intervene if necessary. The use of mobile apps that allow patients to track their blood pressure, medication adherence, and lifestyle modifications can also improve patient outcomes.

Finally, the overall quality of care provided by primary care practices in ZIP Code 17814 will be evaluated. This will involve reviewing patient satisfaction surveys, analyzing clinical outcomes data, and assessing the practices' adherence to national guidelines for hypertension management. The goal is to identify practices that are providing high-quality, patient-centered care.

In conclusion, a comprehensive assessment of hypertension management in ZIP Code 17814 requires a multifaceted approach, considering physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the overall quality of care. Understanding these factors is crucial for improving patient outcomes and promoting a healthier community.

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