17866, Coal Township, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 17866, Coal Township, Pennsylvania is 85 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 69.19 percent of the residents in 17866 has some form of health insurance. 33.37 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 48.12 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 17866 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,186 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 39 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17866. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,660 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,825 health care providers accessible to residents in 17866, Coal Township, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Coal Township, PA (ZIP Code 17866)

Coal Township, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of Northumberland County, presents a unique healthcare landscape. This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care within ZIP code 17866, focusing specifically on factors impacting hypertension management, a significant public health concern. We will assess physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, evaluate telemedicine adoption, and examine the integration of mental health resources, all crucial elements in effectively addressing hypertension.

The initial hurdle in assessing hypertension care in Coal Township is the limited availability of publicly accessible data. Precise physician-to-patient ratios are difficult to ascertain without comprehensive datasets. However, utilizing publicly available resources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and comparing them to national averages provides a general understanding. The rural nature of the area often suggests a lower physician density compared to more urban centers. This scarcity can translate into longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced access to preventative care, both of which can negatively impact hypertension management.

Identifying standout practices requires a nuanced approach. It involves evaluating factors beyond simple physician counts. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient education, preventative care, and proactive hypertension management strategies are crucial. These strategies include readily available blood pressure monitoring, lifestyle counseling, and medication adherence programs. Practices that actively track patient outcomes and demonstrate improved blood pressure control rates are prime examples of excellence in this area. While specific practice names are difficult to pinpoint without direct access to patient data, identifying practices affiliated with larger healthcare systems or those with a strong online presence and positive patient reviews can provide some initial insight.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor in assessing the quality of hypertension care. In a geographically dispersed area like Coal Township, telemedicine offers a valuable tool to bridge the gap in access to care. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and medication management support are better equipped to serve a wider patient population. Telemedicine can also be particularly beneficial for patients with mobility limitations or transportation challenges, allowing them to receive timely care without the need for frequent in-person visits. The ability to conduct virtual check-ins, review blood pressure readings remotely, and adjust medication dosages accordingly can significantly improve hypertension control rates.

The integration of mental health resources is a vital, often overlooked, aspect of hypertension management. Chronic stress and mental health conditions like anxiety and depression can significantly contribute to elevated blood pressure. Practices that recognize this connection and offer integrated mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals are better positioned to provide comprehensive care. This integration can involve on-site therapists, partnerships with local mental health providers, or the use of telehealth platforms to connect patients with mental health support. Addressing the psychological factors contributing to hypertension is crucial for long-term success in managing the condition.

Beyond the core elements of physician availability, telemedicine, and mental health integration, other factors contribute to the overall hypertension score. These include the availability of on-site laboratory services for blood work, access to specialized care like cardiology, and the practice’s commitment to patient education. Practices that actively educate patients about lifestyle modifications, medication adherence, and the importance of regular check-ups are more likely to achieve positive outcomes. The use of patient portals and electronic health records can also improve communication and facilitate better care coordination.

Assessing the overall ‘Hypertension Score’ for Coal Township involves synthesizing all these factors. The score is not a static number but rather a reflection of the overall healthcare ecosystem’s capacity to effectively manage hypertension. A high score indicates a robust system with ample physician availability, widespread telemedicine adoption, integrated mental health resources, and a strong emphasis on patient education and preventative care. A lower score suggests areas for improvement, such as addressing physician shortages, expanding telemedicine capabilities, and fostering greater integration between physical and mental healthcare.

The analysis highlights the importance of a multi-faceted approach to improving hypertension care in Coal Township. It requires a collaborative effort involving healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government. Initiatives to attract and retain physicians, expand telemedicine infrastructure, and promote mental health awareness are crucial steps toward improving the overall health of the community.

The information presented in this analysis is based on publicly available data and general observations. A comprehensive assessment would require access to detailed patient data, practice-specific information, and direct engagement with healthcare providers. However, this overview provides a valuable starting point for understanding the challenges and opportunities in managing hypertension within the Coal Township area.

For a more in-depth understanding of the healthcare landscape in Coal Township and to visualize the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides powerful tools for visualizing and analyzing healthcare data, allowing you to identify areas of need and optimize resource allocation. By using CartoChrome, you can gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare ecosystem and make informed decisions to improve access to care and enhance patient outcomes.