17821, Danville, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 17821, Danville, Pennsylvania is 96 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.97 percent of the residents in 17821 has some form of health insurance. 31.02 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.28 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 17821 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,066 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 34 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17821. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,652 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 7,355 health care providers accessible to residents in 17821, Danville, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Danville, PA (ZIP Code 17821)

Danville, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of Montour County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access and management, particularly concerning hypertension. This analysis aims to assess the quality of primary care available within ZIP code 17821, focusing on factors crucial for effective hypertension management, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice excellence, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. We will then synthesize these factors into a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" assessment.

The cornerstone of hypertension control is consistent and accessible primary care. A crucial metric in evaluating this accessibility is the physician-to-patient ratio. While precise figures fluctuate, a high ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced appointment durations, and diminished opportunities for preventative care and consistent monitoring. Conversely, a lower ratio, reflecting a greater availability of primary care physicians, generally supports better patient outcomes. Within Danville, the physician-to-patient ratio must be carefully evaluated. This requires analyzing the number of practicing primary care physicians within the ZIP code, cross-referencing this with the local population demographics, and considering the presence of any regional healthcare networks that might influence patient access.

Beyond mere numbers, the quality of primary care practices significantly impacts hypertension management. This involves evaluating factors such as the practice's commitment to evidence-based guidelines, the availability of on-site diagnostic tools (e.g., blood pressure monitors, ECGs), and the implementation of patient-centered care models. Practices that actively engage patients in their care, providing education on lifestyle modifications, medication adherence, and self-monitoring techniques, are more likely to achieve successful hypertension control. Furthermore, the integration of electronic health records (EHRs) facilitates efficient data management, allowing physicians to track patient progress, identify trends, and personalize treatment plans.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for hypertension management, particularly in rural areas. It allows patients to remotely monitor their blood pressure, communicate with their physicians, and receive timely interventions. The adoption of telemedicine within Danville’s primary care practices is a crucial factor in our assessment. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring programs, and online patient portals are better equipped to provide continuous care and support, leading to improved patient outcomes. Assessing the extent to which local practices embrace telemedicine technologies is essential for understanding the accessibility and quality of care available.

The intricate link between mental health and hypertension cannot be overstated. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly elevate blood pressure and hinder effective management. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the Danville healthcare ecosystem is a critical component of our analysis. This includes evaluating the presence of mental health professionals within primary care practices, the availability of referrals to specialized mental health services, and the integration of mental health screenings into routine checkups. Practices that recognize and address the interplay between mental and physical health are better positioned to provide holistic care and improve hypertension outcomes.

Synthesizing these factors – physician-to-patient ratios, practice excellence, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resource availability – allows us to construct a "Hypertension Score" for the primary care landscape in Danville (ZIP code 17821). This score is not a single, definitive number but rather a composite assessment reflecting the overall quality and accessibility of care. A higher score would indicate a more favorable environment for hypertension management, characterized by a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, high-quality practices, widespread telemedicine adoption, and robust mental health support. Conversely, a lower score would suggest potential challenges in accessing and managing hypertension effectively.

The specific practices within Danville require individual evaluation. We need to examine which practices demonstrate a commitment to patient education, actively monitor blood pressure, and offer comprehensive care. Practices that have embraced technology, such as patient portals and remote monitoring, should be highlighted. Practices that have integrated mental health services or have strong referral networks should also be recognized. This detailed practice-level analysis is crucial for identifying standout performers and areas where improvements are needed.

Furthermore, the broader healthcare infrastructure in Danville plays a role. The presence of hospitals, specialist clinics, and community health centers influences the overall accessibility of care. The integration and coordination between these various healthcare providers are essential for seamless patient care. The effectiveness of referral pathways, communication protocols, and shared care plans contributes to the overall success of hypertension management within the community.

In conclusion, evaluating the primary care landscape in Danville (ZIP code 17821) for hypertension management requires a multi-faceted approach. It involves analyzing physician-to-patient ratios, assessing the quality of primary care practices, evaluating telemedicine adoption, and examining the availability of mental health resources. By synthesizing these factors, we can construct a "Hypertension Score" that reflects the overall quality and accessibility of care. This score can be used to identify areas of strength and weakness, inform healthcare planning, and ultimately improve patient outcomes.

For a visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Danville and surrounding areas, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and resource availability, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a dynamic and insightful view of the data discussed, allowing you to visualize the key factors influencing hypertension management and make informed decisions about your healthcare options.