17861, Paxtonville, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 17861, Paxtonville, Pennsylvania is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 17861 has some form of health insurance. 28.38 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.98 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 17861 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 61 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17861. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 28 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,091 health care providers accessible to residents in 17861, Paxtonville, Pennsylvania.

Paxtonville, Pennsylvania, nestled within the 17861 ZIP code, presents a unique landscape for healthcare accessibility, particularly regarding the management of hypertension. Analyzing the availability and quality of primary care physicians in this rural setting is crucial, as hypertension, often asymptomatic, demands consistent monitoring and effective treatment. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive 'Hypertension Score' assessment, considering physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health resources, ultimately painting a picture of the healthcare environment for those managing or at risk of hypertension in Paxtonville.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a fundamental indicator of access. In rural areas like Paxtonville, this ratio can be significantly impacted by geographic limitations and physician distribution. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnosis and treatment of conditions like hypertension. The available data suggests a possible shortage of primary care physicians in the 17861 ZIP code, requiring residents to travel to nearby towns or cities for care. This geographical constraint can exacerbate the challenges of managing hypertension, which necessitates regular check-ups and medication adherence.

Within the existing primary care practices, variations in quality and approach are expected. Some practices may stand out through their commitment to patient-centered care, proactive screening programs, and comprehensive management of hypertension. These standout practices often emphasize patient education, empowering individuals to understand their condition and actively participate in their treatment plans. They may employ certified diabetes educators, registered dietitians, and other healthcare professionals to provide holistic support. Conversely, other practices might face challenges related to staffing, resource allocation, or integration of best practices. Identifying these differences is critical for patients seeking the most effective care.

Telemedicine adoption has the potential to revolutionize healthcare delivery in rural areas. For individuals with hypertension, telemedicine offers a convenient and accessible means of monitoring blood pressure, receiving medication refills, and consulting with their physician. The success of telemedicine, however, depends on several factors, including technological infrastructure, patient digital literacy, and physician willingness to embrace this technology. In Paxtonville, the availability of reliable internet access is a significant consideration, as poor connectivity can hinder the effective implementation of telemedicine services. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their workflow are likely to offer a more convenient and accessible experience for patients managing hypertension.

The link between hypertension and mental health is increasingly recognized. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can contribute to elevated blood pressure and complicate the management of hypertension. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through referral networks is essential. Practices that offer on-site counseling services, partner with mental health professionals, or provide resources for stress management and coping strategies are better equipped to address the holistic needs of patients with hypertension. The lack of readily available mental health support can hinder patients' ability to adhere to treatment plans and achieve optimal blood pressure control.

Assessing the specific practices in the 17861 ZIP code requires deeper investigation. Researching individual practices' websites, online reviews, and patient testimonials can provide valuable insights into their strengths and weaknesses. Key factors to consider include the practice's approach to patient education, the availability of on-site diagnostic testing, the use of electronic health records, and the accessibility of after-hours care. Practices that utilize electronic health records, for instance, can streamline communication, improve care coordination, and facilitate the monitoring of patient progress.

The 'Hypertension Score' for a practice would ideally incorporate several metrics. Physician-to-patient ratio within the practice's service area would be a key component. The availability of specialized staff, such as certified diabetes educators or registered dietitians, would contribute to the score. The extent of telemedicine adoption, including the availability of virtual appointments and remote monitoring capabilities, would be another significant factor. The presence of mental health resources, either on-site or through referral networks, would also influence the score. Finally, patient satisfaction, as measured through online reviews and surveys, would provide valuable feedback on the practice's overall quality of care.

In the context of Paxtonville, the lack of readily available data presents a challenge. A detailed analysis would necessitate gathering information from various sources, including local healthcare providers, community organizations, and government agencies. The use of geographic information systems (GIS) can be particularly helpful in visualizing the distribution of healthcare resources and identifying areas with limited access. The goal is to create a comprehensive 'Hypertension Score' that reflects the realities of healthcare access and quality in this rural community.

The challenges of managing hypertension in a rural setting like Paxtonville underscore the importance of proactive measures. Community outreach programs, such as health fairs and educational workshops, can raise awareness about hypertension and promote healthy lifestyle choices. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government can help address the barriers to care. The focus should be on creating a supportive environment that empowers individuals to take control of their health.

The assessment of primary care availability in the 17861 ZIP code reveals both opportunities and challenges. While the rural setting presents limitations, the potential for innovation and improvement remains. By addressing the physician-to-patient ratio, embracing telemedicine, integrating mental health resources, and focusing on patient-centered care, the healthcare system in Paxtonville can improve the management of hypertension and enhance the overall health of its residents.

The creation of a detailed map visualizing physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to resources would be invaluable for residents of Paxtonville. This map could highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape, enabling individuals to make informed decisions about their care. To explore the healthcare landscape in Paxtonville and visualize the data discussed, we encourage you to utilize CartoChrome maps. Explore the interactive maps and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in your community.