17864, Port Trevorton, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 17864, Port Trevorton, Pennsylvania is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 60.10 percent of the residents in 17864 has some form of health insurance. 27.10 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 44.35 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 17864 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 689 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17864. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 325 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,789 health care providers accessible to residents in 17864, Port Trevorton, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Port Trevorton, PA (ZIP Code 17864)

Analyzing the healthcare landscape of Port Trevorton, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17864) requires a multi-faceted approach. We must evaluate the availability of primary care physicians, their expertise in managing hypertension, and the supporting resources available to patients. This analysis aims to provide a "Hypertension Score" assessment, considering factors that directly impact the quality of care for individuals managing or at risk of developing high blood pressure.

The cornerstone of hypertension management is access to primary care. Within the confines of ZIP Code 17864, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. While precise figures fluctuate, this rural area likely faces challenges common to underserved regions. A low physician-to-patient ratio can strain resources, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced time spent with each patient. This can negatively impact the ability to provide comprehensive care, including thorough assessments, personalized treatment plans, and consistent follow-up.

Beyond simple availability, the quality of primary care is paramount. We need to assess the expertise of local physicians in hypertension management. This involves examining their experience, board certifications (e.g., Family Medicine, Internal Medicine), and adherence to current clinical guidelines. Do they routinely screen for hypertension? Are they proficient in prescribing and managing various antihypertensive medications? Do they proactively address lifestyle modifications, such as diet and exercise, which are crucial components of hypertension control?

Identifying standout practices within the area can provide valuable insights. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, utilize evidence-based practices, and actively engage in patient education should be highlighted. This might include practices that offer extended hours, convenient appointment scheduling, or bilingual staff to cater to diverse patient populations. Analyzing patient reviews and feedback can also help identify practices that consistently deliver positive outcomes and a high level of patient satisfaction.

The adoption of telemedicine is another crucial aspect of the hypertension score. Telemedicine offers a powerful tool for improving access to care, especially in rural areas where geographic barriers can be significant. Does the practice offer virtual consultations for medication management, follow-up appointments, or educational sessions? Telemedicine can also facilitate remote blood pressure monitoring, allowing physicians to track patient progress and adjust treatment plans remotely. Practices embracing telemedicine are likely to score higher in this assessment.

The interconnectedness of physical and mental health is undeniable, particularly in managing chronic conditions like hypertension. The availability of mental health resources within the community significantly impacts a patient's ability to adhere to treatment plans and manage stress, a known contributor to elevated blood pressure. Are there readily accessible mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, in the area? Does the primary care practice offer integrated behavioral health services or have established referral pathways to mental health providers? A strong network of mental health support is essential for holistic hypertension management.

Furthermore, the availability of resources for patient education and self-management is critical. Do practices provide educational materials on hypertension, its causes, and effective management strategies? Are there programs that promote healthy lifestyle choices, such as nutrition counseling or exercise classes? Patient empowerment through education and self-management support can significantly improve treatment adherence and long-term health outcomes.

Another factor to consider is the presence of specialized services. While primary care is the foundation, access to specialists, such as cardiologists and nephrologists, is important for patients with complex cases or complications related to hypertension. The proximity and availability of these specialists can influence the overall quality of care.

Data privacy and security are paramount. Any assessment of healthcare practices must consider their adherence to HIPAA regulations and their commitment to protecting patient information. Practices with robust data security protocols and a strong emphasis on patient confidentiality will score higher.

Finally, the integration of technology in patient care should be assessed. Does the practice utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to streamline patient information and facilitate communication between providers? Do they offer online patient portals for accessing medical records, scheduling appointments, and communicating with their care team? Practices that embrace technology to enhance patient care are likely to be more efficient and provide a better patient experience.

In conclusion, assessing the "Hypertension Score" for physicians in ZIP Code 17864 involves a comprehensive evaluation of primary care availability, physician expertise, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, patient education programs, and the integration of technology. This assessment should consider physician-to-patient ratios, identify standout practices, and analyze the availability of supporting resources. A thorough understanding of these factors is essential for providing high-quality hypertension care in Port Trevorton.

For a more detailed and visually informative understanding of the healthcare landscape in Port Trevorton, PA, and to explore the geographic distribution of resources, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide valuable insights into physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and other relevant data points, helping you visualize and understand the healthcare access and quality within your community.