17923, Branchdale, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 17923, Branchdale, Pennsylvania is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.21 percent of the residents in 17923 has some form of health insurance. 59.75 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 54.80 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 17923 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 14 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 6 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17923. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 70 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,678 health care providers accessible to residents in 17923, Branchdale, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Branchdale, PA (ZIP Code 17923)

Branchdale, Pennsylvania, nestled within the 17923 ZIP code, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access, particularly concerning hypertension management. Assessing the quality and availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is crucial, given their central role in diagnosing, treating, and managing this widespread condition. This analysis aims to provide a 'Hypertension Score' ranking for doctors within this area, considering factors like physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine integration, and mental health resources, ultimately painting a comprehensive picture of care accessibility.

The foundation of effective hypertension management rests on readily available primary care. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A higher ratio, indicating more patients per physician, can strain resources, potentially leading to shorter appointment times and reduced individualized care. Conversely, a lower ratio generally suggests better access and the opportunity for more comprehensive patient interactions. In Branchdale, the specific physician-to-patient ratio needs to be evaluated using up-to-date data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This data, alongside information on physician specialization and availability, will significantly influence the 'Hypertension Score'.

Standout practices within Branchdale should be identified based on their commitment to hypertension care. These practices might demonstrate excellence through various means. They might have a dedicated team of nurses and medical assistants trained in hypertension management, including blood pressure monitoring and patient education. Some practices may implement robust electronic health record (EHR) systems to track patient data, facilitate medication management, and generate timely reminders for follow-up appointments. Others might participate in quality improvement initiatives aimed at optimizing hypertension control rates. The 'Hypertension Score' will reward practices that actively implement these best practices.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas like Branchdale. Telemedicine allows patients to connect with their physicians remotely, offering convenience and reducing the barriers to accessing care. Practices utilizing telemedicine for hypertension management may offer virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and medication refills. This can be particularly beneficial for patients with mobility issues, transportation challenges, or those living in remote areas. The 'Hypertension Score' will reflect the extent to which practices embrace telemedicine and its impact on patient access and adherence to treatment plans.

The connection between hypertension and mental health is well-established. Chronic stress and anxiety can contribute to elevated blood pressure, and effective hypertension management often requires addressing these underlying factors. Practices that integrate mental health resources into their care models will receive a higher 'Hypertension Score'. This might involve offering on-site counseling services, providing referrals to mental health professionals, or screening patients for depression and anxiety. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health specialists is a key indicator of a patient-centered approach to hypertension care.

Specific practices within Branchdale need individual evaluation. For instance, the "Branchdale Family Practice" should be analyzed for its physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of same-day appointments, and the staff's training in hypertension management. Does this practice utilize a patient portal for communication and medication refills? Similarly, "Valley Medical Associates" should be assessed based on its telemedicine capabilities, its integration of mental health services, and its participation in quality improvement programs. The 'Hypertension Score' will be based on a weighted assessment of these and other practices.

The 'Hypertension Score' will also consider the availability of ancillary services. Access to diagnostic testing, such as electrocardiograms (ECGs) and blood tests, is essential for monitoring hypertension and detecting potential complications. The proximity of these services and the ease with which patients can access them will influence the overall score. Furthermore, the availability of patient education materials, such as brochures, online resources, and support groups, will be considered. These resources empower patients to actively participate in their care and improve their adherence to treatment plans.

Another factor to consider is the demographic makeup of the patient population in Branchdale. Certain populations, such as those of African American or Hispanic descent, are disproportionately affected by hypertension. Practices that demonstrate cultural competency and tailor their care to meet the specific needs of these populations will receive a higher score. This might involve providing multilingual materials, employing diverse staff members, or actively addressing health disparities.

The 'Hypertension Score' should be dynamic and updated regularly. Healthcare practices are constantly evolving, and new technologies and best practices are emerging. The score should reflect these changes and be based on the most current data available. Regular reassessment ensures that the score remains relevant and provides an accurate reflection of the quality and accessibility of hypertension care in Branchdale.

The final 'Hypertension Score' will be a composite measure, reflecting the weighted average of the factors discussed above. This score will provide a valuable tool for patients seeking primary care in Branchdale, helping them to make informed decisions about their healthcare. It will also serve as a benchmark for healthcare providers, highlighting areas for improvement and encouraging the adoption of best practices in hypertension management.

To visualize the distribution of these healthcare resources and identify potential gaps in access within Branchdale and the surrounding areas, consider utilizing the power of CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, practice characteristics, and patient demographics, empowering you to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape.