17944, Llewellyn, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 17944, Llewellyn, Pennsylvania is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 17944 has some form of health insurance. 23.67 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 82.25 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 17944 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 17 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 6 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17944. An estimate of 5 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 1,745 health care providers accessible to residents in 17944, Llewellyn, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: 17944 and Llewellyn Primary Care

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality, especially concerning conditions like hypertension, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) within ZIP Code 17944 (Pottsville, PA, and surrounding areas) and specifically examines primary care availability within the nearby community of Llewellyn. The objective is to create a 'Hypertension Score' by assessing various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. This score aims to provide a comprehensive picture of the healthcare landscape, particularly for those managing or at risk of hypertension.

The foundation of any hypertension management strategy is readily accessible primary care. In 17944, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A high ratio, meaning a smaller number of physicians serving a larger population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially compromised care. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater accessibility and potentially improved patient outcomes. Publicly available data, such as that from the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the US Census Bureau, needs to be cross-referenced to establish an accurate physician-to-patient ratio. This data, combined with information from health insurance providers, will help determine the actual patient load managed by each PCP.

The specific practices within 17944 require individual evaluation. Their size, the number of physicians, the range of services offered, and their technological capabilities all contribute to the overall 'Hypertension Score.' Standout practices are those that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, proactive hypertension management, and readily available resources. These practices often employ certified diabetes educators, registered dietitians, and offer on-site laboratory services for convenient blood pressure monitoring and medication management. They may also have dedicated staff for patient education on lifestyle modifications, such as diet and exercise, which are crucial for hypertension control. Practices that integrate electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals are also favored, as these tools facilitate better communication, appointment scheduling, and access to medical information.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor in the 'Hypertension Score.' Telemedicine offers significant advantages for managing chronic conditions like hypertension. It allows for remote blood pressure monitoring, virtual consultations, medication management, and ongoing patient education. Practices that embrace telemedicine can provide more frequent and convenient follow-up appointments, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in rural areas. The availability of virtual visits can also reduce the burden on the healthcare system and improve patient adherence to treatment plans. The extent of telemedicine adoption, including the types of services offered and the platforms used, will be carefully assessed for each practice.

The integration of mental health resources is a vital, often overlooked, component of hypertension management. Stress and anxiety can significantly impact blood pressure levels. Practices that recognize this connection and offer or facilitate access to mental health services, such as counseling or therapy, are highly valued. This integration can take many forms, from on-site therapists to referrals to mental health professionals in the community. The availability of these resources demonstrates a holistic approach to patient care and can improve overall health outcomes. The 'Hypertension Score' will consider the presence and accessibility of mental health support within each practice.

Focusing on Llewellyn, a smaller community within the 17944 ZIP code, the availability of primary care is particularly important. Due to its size, Llewellyn might experience limited access to healthcare services. The analysis will determine the proximity of PCPs to Llewellyn residents, the availability of transportation to those practices, and the acceptance of various insurance plans. If access to primary care is limited, the 'Hypertension Score' for Llewellyn will be negatively impacted. This assessment will also consider the availability of mobile health services or community health programs that may provide care to residents.

The 'Hypertension Score' will not be a simple numerical value. Instead, it will be a comprehensive evaluation based on the weighted factors discussed above. Each factor will be assigned a weight based on its importance in hypertension management. For example, physician-to-patient ratio and practice characteristics may carry a higher weight than telemedicine adoption, depending on the specific context. The final score will reflect the overall quality and accessibility of primary care services for hypertension management within 17944 and specifically in Llewellyn.

In conclusion, this analysis aims to provide a clear understanding of the healthcare landscape within 17944 and Llewellyn, focusing on the key elements of hypertension management. The 'Hypertension Score' will serve as a valuable tool for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers. It can inform decisions about healthcare access, resource allocation, and the development of targeted interventions to improve the health and well-being of the community.

To visualize and explore the healthcare landscape in 17944 and beyond, consider utilizing the power of CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a spatial representation of physician locations, practice characteristics, and other relevant data points, allowing for a more intuitive understanding of healthcare accessibility. Explore the possibilities with CartoChrome maps today.