17945, Locustdale, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 17945, Locustdale, Pennsylvania is 85 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.47 percent of the residents in 17945 has some form of health insurance. 39.53 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.13 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 17945 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 20 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 6 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17945. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 25 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,802 health care providers accessible to residents in 17945, Locustdale, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 17945 & Primary Care Availability in Locustdale

This analysis delves into the landscape of hypertension management within ZIP code 17945, encompassing Locustdale, Pennsylvania, with a specific focus on primary care availability and the resources available to patients. The goal is to provide an assessment of the healthcare ecosystem's capacity to effectively address and manage hypertension, a prevalent and serious health concern. This analysis will not provide a numerical score but will instead provide a qualitative assessment based on available data and general industry best practices.

The foundation of effective hypertension management lies in accessible and high-quality primary care. Locustdale, and the broader 17945 ZIP code, presents a unique challenge due to its rural nature. This often translates to a lower density of healthcare providers compared to more urban areas. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A low ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnoses and treatment. This can exacerbate the challenges of managing a chronic condition like hypertension. Data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, combined with information from healthcare directories and insurance provider networks, would be essential to determine the exact physician-to-patient ratio within the 17945 ZIP code.

Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of primary care practices within the area is important. Are practices clustered in specific locations, potentially creating geographical barriers for patients residing in more remote areas of Locustdale? The presence of multiple primary care providers, including family medicine physicians and internal medicine specialists, is also crucial. A diverse pool of providers offers patients more choice and the potential for finding a physician whose approach aligns with their individual needs.

Identifying standout practices within the 17945 ZIP code requires a multi-faceted approach. This involves evaluating factors like patient reviews, the range of services offered, and the adoption of innovative technologies. Practices with a strong emphasis on patient education, preventative care, and chronic disease management, including hypertension, are particularly noteworthy. Practices that actively participate in community outreach programs and collaborate with local pharmacies and specialists further enhance their value. The availability of in-house diagnostic testing, such as blood pressure monitoring and basic laboratory services, streamlines the diagnostic and treatment process.

The adoption of telemedicine has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to connect with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care. Practices that offer telehealth consultations, remote monitoring of blood pressure, and virtual follow-up appointments are better equipped to serve patients with hypertension. The availability of digital patient portals, which allow patients to access their medical records, communicate with their providers, and manage their appointments online, also contributes to improved patient engagement and adherence to treatment plans.

The intricate link between mental health and hypertension cannot be overlooked. Chronic stress and anxiety can significantly impact blood pressure, making it more difficult to manage. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the 17945 ZIP code is a critical component of a comprehensive hypertension management strategy. This includes access to psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors. Ideally, primary care practices should have established referral pathways to mental health providers, ensuring that patients receive the integrated care they need. The integration of mental health services within the primary care setting, such as on-site counseling or collaborative care models, can further improve patient outcomes.

Furthermore, the availability of support groups and educational programs for patients with hypertension is beneficial. These resources provide patients with a platform to connect with others facing similar challenges, share experiences, and learn about self-management techniques. Local hospitals, community health centers, and patient advocacy organizations may offer such programs.

Assessing the availability of these resources, the quality of care provided, and the level of integration between different healthcare providers will provide a more comprehensive understanding of the hypertension management landscape in the 17945 ZIP code. This analysis, while not providing a single numerical score, offers a qualitative assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare ecosystem in Locustdale and the surrounding area. It highlights areas where improvements are needed to ensure that residents have access to the high-quality care they deserve to effectively manage their hypertension and improve their overall health.

To gain a more granular understanding of the healthcare landscape in the 17945 ZIP code, including the geographical distribution of providers, the location of pharmacies, and the availability of community resources, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a visual representation of the data, making it easier to identify areas with limited access to care and to understand the overall healthcare ecosystem.