17815, Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 17815, Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania is 88 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.92 percent of the residents in 17815 has some form of health insurance. 30.19 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.10 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 17815 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,012 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 34 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17815. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,598 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,704 health care providers accessible to residents in 17815, Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania.

**Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 17815 and Primary Care Availability in Bloomsburg**

This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of primary care physician (PCP) availability and related factors influencing hypertension management within ZIP Code 17815 (Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania) and its surrounding areas. The goal is to assess the current state of healthcare access, identify strengths and weaknesses, and ultimately provide insights into improving hypertension control within the community. We will evaluate physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, examine telemedicine adoption, and assess the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components of effective hypertension care.

Bloomsburg, a town in Columbia County, faces the same challenges as many rural communities in the United States regarding healthcare access. The geographic distribution of healthcare providers, the availability of specialized services, and the integration of technology all play a role in the quality of care patients receive. A crucial aspect of this analysis is understanding how these factors impact the management of hypertension, a prevalent chronic condition that requires consistent monitoring and proactive intervention.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios**

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of healthcare access. In Bloomsburg, the ratio of PCPs to the general population is a critical factor. While precise figures fluctuate, rural areas often face shortages compared to urban centers. The availability of PCPs directly impacts the ability of patients to receive timely checkups, screenings, and ongoing management of conditions like hypertension. A higher ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per patient, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced opportunities for preventative care, and potentially, poorer health outcomes. Analyzing the specific PCP-to-patient ratio within ZIP Code 17815 and comparing it to state and national averages is crucial for understanding the magnitude of the access challenge. Furthermore, the distribution of PCPs across the area, considering factors like age and specialty, is also important.

**Standout Practices**

Identifying standout practices in Bloomsburg is essential for understanding best practices in hypertension management. These practices may have implemented innovative strategies to improve patient outcomes. For example, some practices may have developed patient education programs focused on lifestyle modifications, such as diet and exercise, which are critical for controlling hypertension. Others might have integrated technology, such as remote blood pressure monitoring, into their care plans. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient data and facilitate communication between providers is another important factor. Examining the specific approaches these practices use, their patient satisfaction rates, and their success in achieving blood pressure control goals can provide valuable insights for other providers in the area.

**Telemedicine Adoption**

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant tool for improving healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption in Bloomsburg is an important aspect of this analysis. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, monitor patients remotely, and provide medication management via telemedicine can significantly improve hypertension control. Assessing the extent to which local practices have embraced telemedicine, the types of services offered, and the patient and provider satisfaction with these services is crucial. Barriers to telemedicine adoption, such as lack of broadband internet access, patient and provider comfort with technology, and reimbursement policies, also need to be considered. The success of telemedicine initiatives in Bloomsburg can serve as a model for other rural communities.

**Mental Health Resources**

The link between mental health and hypertension is well-established. Stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure levels and adherence to treatment plans. The availability of mental health resources in Bloomsburg is therefore a critical component of effective hypertension management. Assessing the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, and the integration of mental health services into primary care practices is essential. The presence of support groups, educational programs, and resources for stress management can also play a vital role. Identifying any gaps in mental health services and exploring opportunities for collaboration between primary care providers and mental health professionals is crucial for improving patient outcomes.

**Specific Considerations for Bloomsburg**

Bloomsburg's demographics, including age distribution, socioeconomic factors, and prevalence of chronic diseases, must be considered. The healthcare needs of the local population are shaped by these factors. Examining the specific needs of the community, such as access to healthy food options, safe places for physical activity, and culturally sensitive healthcare services, is important. The presence of local hospitals and their capabilities, including emergency services and specialized care, also influence the overall quality of healthcare available. Collaborating with local community organizations and public health agencies can help address specific needs and improve healthcare outcomes.

**Analysis and Recommendations**

This analysis will involve gathering data from various sources, including healthcare provider directories, patient surveys, and public health reports. The data will be analyzed to create a comprehensive picture of the healthcare landscape in Bloomsburg. Based on the analysis, recommendations will be developed to improve hypertension management. These recommendations may include increasing the number of PCPs, promoting telemedicine adoption, expanding mental health services, and implementing patient education programs. The goal is to create a more accessible, coordinated, and patient-centered healthcare system that effectively addresses the needs of individuals with hypertension.

**Conclusion**

Understanding the landscape of primary care and hypertension management in Bloomsburg is vital for improving community health outcomes. By analyzing physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and evaluating mental health resources, we can gain valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system. This information can be used to develop targeted interventions and improve access to care for individuals with hypertension.

For a visual representation of this data, including physician locations, patient demographics, and resource availability, we invite you to explore the interactive maps available on CartoChrome. These maps provide a dynamic and insightful view of the healthcare landscape in Bloomsburg and can help you make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.