17851, Mount Carmel, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 17851, Mount Carmel, Pennsylvania is 83 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.23 percent of the residents in 17851 has some form of health insurance. 53.49 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.49 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 17851 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,241 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 39 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17851. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,696 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,349 health care providers accessible to residents in 17851, Mount Carmel, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Mount Carmel, PA (ZIP Code 17851)

Analyzing hypertension management within Mount Carmel, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17851) requires a multi-faceted approach, considering not only the availability of primary care physicians but also the quality of care, accessibility, and integration of supporting services. This analysis will generate a hypothetical "Hypertension Score," assessing the overall landscape for individuals managing or at risk of developing high blood pressure within this specific geographical area. The score, while subjective, aims to provide a comprehensive overview, considering various factors crucial for effective hypertension control.

The foundation of effective hypertension management rests on the availability of primary care physicians. In Mount Carmel, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. Data on the exact ratio for 17851 is crucial. We will assume a hypothetical scenario for this analysis. If the ratio is unfavorable, meaning a relatively small number of physicians serve a large population, the "Availability" component of our score will be negatively impacted. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses or treatment adjustments.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This encompasses the physicians' experience, their adherence to established guidelines for hypertension management (e.g., those from the American Heart Association), and their utilization of evidence-based practices. We will analyze how consistently physicians in Mount Carmel are: prescribing appropriate medications, monitoring blood pressure regularly, educating patients on lifestyle modifications (diet, exercise, stress management), and referring patients to specialists when necessary. Practices that demonstrate a strong commitment to these aspects will receive higher scores.

Standout practices within the Mount Carmel area would significantly elevate the overall "Hypertension Score." These practices might be recognized for their innovative approaches to patient care. Perhaps they have implemented a robust patient portal for communication and medication refills, or they offer extended hours to accommodate patients' schedules. Maybe they have a dedicated nurse or health educator specializing in hypertension management, providing personalized guidance and support. Practices actively participating in quality improvement initiatives, such as tracking patient outcomes and implementing strategies to improve blood pressure control rates, would also be highly regarded.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical element. The ability to remotely monitor blood pressure, conduct virtual consultations, and provide ongoing support through telehealth platforms can significantly enhance patient access to care, particularly for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Practices in Mount Carmel that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring capabilities, will receive a higher score in the "Accessibility" component.

Mental health plays a crucial, often overlooked, role in hypertension management. Chronic stress and anxiety can significantly elevate blood pressure. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources in Mount Carmel is a key factor. This includes access to psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors. Practices that actively screen patients for mental health concerns, provide referrals to mental health professionals, or offer integrated mental health services within their practice will be viewed favorably. The integration of mental health support demonstrates a holistic approach to patient care, acknowledging the interconnectedness of physical and mental well-being.

Another factor to consider is the availability of community resources. Are there local support groups for individuals with hypertension? Are there programs promoting healthy eating and exercise? The presence of these resources can provide valuable support and education, empowering patients to take an active role in managing their condition. Practices that collaborate with community organizations to provide educational materials or offer referrals to these resources will receive a higher score.

The "Hypertension Score" is not just about individual practices; it's about the overall healthcare ecosystem. The presence of a hospital or medical center in or near Mount Carmel is critical. This ensures that patients have access to specialized care, diagnostic testing, and emergency services when needed. The hospital's reputation for quality of care and its commitment to cardiovascular health initiatives will also influence the overall score.

The "Hypertension Score" is a composite metric. It reflects the interplay of various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, quality of care, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and community support. A high score indicates a favorable environment for hypertension management, with readily available, high-quality care and a supportive infrastructure. A lower score suggests areas for improvement, such as addressing physician shortages, enhancing telemedicine capabilities, or increasing access to mental health services.

To further refine this analysis and provide a more granular understanding of the healthcare landscape in Mount Carmel, visualizing the data is essential. Understanding the spatial distribution of resources, patient demographics, and health outcomes can reveal important patterns and identify areas where interventions are most needed.

For a comprehensive, visually driven analysis of healthcare resources and patient demographics in Mount Carmel, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17851), consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps allow you to visualize the data, identify areas with limited access to care, and pinpoint opportunities for improvement.