17963, Pine Grove, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 17963, Pine Grove, Pennsylvania is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.18 percent of the residents in 17963 has some form of health insurance. 38.15 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 77.36 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 17963 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,846 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17963. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,413 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 776 health care providers accessible to residents in 17963, Pine Grove, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Pine Grove, PA (ZIP Code 17963)

Analyzing the landscape of hypertension management in Pine Grove, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17963) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive 'Hypertension Score' assessment, offering insights into the quality and accessibility of care for residents managing this prevalent condition.

The foundation of effective hypertension management rests on accessible primary care. Pine Grove, a relatively rural community, faces challenges in this regard. Assessing primary care availability necessitates examining the number of practicing primary care physicians (PCPs) within the ZIP code and its immediate surrounding areas. Data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and professional medical directories can be used to determine the density of PCPs per capita. A low physician-to-patient ratio signals potential difficulties in securing timely appointments and consistent follow-up care, critical for successful hypertension control.

Furthermore, the distribution of PCPs within the ZIP code is crucial. Are they concentrated in one area, potentially creating access barriers for residents in other parts of Pine Grove? Analyzing the geographic spread of practices, coupled with information on transportation options and patient demographics, paints a clearer picture of access challenges. The presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or other community health clinics could mitigate some of these challenges, offering services to underserved populations.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of primary care practices significantly impacts hypertension management. Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors. Patient reviews, available through platforms like Healthgrades or Vitals, offer valuable insights into patient experiences, including wait times, communication with physicians, and overall satisfaction. Accreditation status, such as recognition from organizations like the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) for Patient-Centered Medical Home (PCMH) models, often indicates a commitment to coordinated, comprehensive care, which is particularly beneficial for chronic conditions like hypertension.

Another crucial factor is the adoption of evidence-based practices. Do practices adhere to the latest guidelines from organizations like the American Heart Association (AHA) and the American College of Cardiology (ACC)? This includes the use of standardized protocols for blood pressure measurement, lifestyle counseling, medication management, and regular follow-up appointments. The availability of on-site diagnostic services, such as electrocardiograms (ECGs) and laboratory testing, streamlines the diagnostic and monitoring process, contributing to improved patient outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption is a game-changer, especially in rural communities. Practices that offer telehealth consultations and remote patient monitoring (RPM) have the potential to significantly improve access to care for hypertension patients. Telemedicine allows for convenient follow-up appointments, medication adjustments, and educational sessions, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits, particularly beneficial for patients with mobility issues or transportation limitations. The availability of remote blood pressure monitoring devices and the integration of data into electronic health records (EHRs) are indicators of a practice’s commitment to leveraging technology for better patient care.

Hypertension is often intertwined with mental health. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can exacerbate high blood pressure and hinder adherence to treatment plans. The availability of mental health resources within primary care practices or through referrals is therefore crucial. Practices that integrate behavioral health specialists, such as therapists or counselors, into their care teams offer a more holistic approach to patient management. The ease of access to these resources, including the availability of mental health services through telehealth, significantly impacts the overall 'Hypertension Score.'

The 'Hypertension Score' is not a static number but a dynamic assessment. It reflects the interplay of various factors, including primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. A high score indicates a robust healthcare ecosystem that supports effective hypertension management, while a low score highlights areas for improvement.

For Pine Grove, 17963, the score would likely be impacted by the rural nature of the community. The physician-to-patient ratio may be a challenge. Telemedicine adoption, while potentially present, may not be widespread. The integration of mental health services may be limited. The presence of a standout practice, committed to evidence-based care and patient-centered approaches, could significantly elevate the score.

In conclusion, a comprehensive analysis of hypertension management in Pine Grove, PA, requires a detailed examination of the healthcare landscape. By evaluating the factors discussed above, we can gain a clearer understanding of the challenges and opportunities for improving hypertension care within the community. This assessment can inform strategies for healthcare providers, policymakers, and community organizations to enhance access, quality, and patient outcomes.

Would you like to visualize the geographic distribution of primary care physicians, analyze patient demographics, and identify potential areas for improvement in access to care? Explore the power of spatial data and mapping tools to gain deeper insights into the healthcare landscape. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of the factors influencing hypertension management in Pine Grove and beyond.