17965, Port Carbon, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 17965, Port Carbon, Pennsylvania is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.96 percent of the residents in 17965 has some form of health insurance. 42.31 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.86 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 17965 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 364 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17965. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 401 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,272 health care providers accessible to residents in 17965, Port Carbon, Pennsylvania.

The following analysis assesses the landscape of hypertension management within ZIP Code 17965, encompassing Port Carbon, Pennsylvania, with a focus on primary care availability and related services. This evaluation aims to provide insights into the quality and accessibility of care for individuals managing or at risk of developing hypertension.

The foundation of effective hypertension management rests upon readily accessible primary care. Port Carbon, as part of ZIP Code 17965, requires careful scrutiny of its physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment initiation. Conversely, a high ratio suggests better access to care. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the U.S. Census Bureau, when cross-referenced, can provide an estimated physician-to-patient ratio for the area. This ratio is a critical first indicator of overall access to care.

Beyond the raw numbers, the types of primary care practices available are crucial. Are there solo practitioners, or are there larger group practices? Group practices often offer a wider range of services, including on-site laboratory testing, which can expedite diagnosis and treatment adjustments for hypertension. The presence of specialized hypertension clinics, even within a larger practice, would be a significant advantage, offering focused expertise and potentially more comprehensive care protocols. The availability of after-hours care, either through extended clinic hours or on-call services, is another factor influencing access and patient convenience.

Standout practices within the area deserve recognition. Identifying practices with a demonstrated commitment to hypertension management involves examining several factors. This includes the adoption of evidence-based guidelines for hypertension treatment, such as those published by the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology. Practices that routinely monitor blood pressure, provide patient education on lifestyle modifications (diet, exercise, stress management), and offer medication management support demonstrate a higher level of commitment. Further, a review of patient testimonials and online reviews can provide valuable insights into patient satisfaction and the perceived quality of care. Practices utilizing electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient progress and facilitate communication are likely to be more efficient and provide better coordinated care.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly relevant, particularly for managing chronic conditions like hypertension. Telemedicine offers the potential for remote blood pressure monitoring, virtual consultations, and medication management, which can improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in geographically isolated areas. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, providing options for virtual appointments and remote monitoring, should be considered favorably. This also includes the availability of patient portals for secure communication and access to medical records.

The connection between mental health and hypertension is well-established. Stress and anxiety can significantly impact blood pressure, making effective mental health support a crucial component of comprehensive hypertension management. The availability of mental health resources within primary care practices or through referrals is essential. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists who can address the psychological factors contributing to hypertension. Integration of mental health services within the primary care setting, or a strong referral network, can streamline care and improve patient outcomes. Practices that screen patients for anxiety and depression and offer mental health support are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients.

The availability of ancillary services also influences the overall quality of hypertension care. Access to registered dietitians who can provide personalized dietary guidance is essential for patients aiming to manage their blood pressure through lifestyle modifications. Access to exercise programs or referrals to certified personal trainers can also be beneficial. The presence of on-site pharmacies, or close proximity to pharmacies, can improve medication adherence and convenience.

Furthermore, the utilization of community resources plays a vital role. Are there local support groups for individuals with hypertension? Are there programs offering free or low-cost blood pressure screenings? Collaboration between primary care practices and community organizations can enhance patient education and support. Practices actively involved in community outreach and education are likely to be more patient-centered and provide more comprehensive care.

In summary, assessing the quality of hypertension management in ZIP Code 17965 involves a multifaceted approach. Evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio, the types of primary care practices available, the adoption of evidence-based guidelines, the integration of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the utilization of community support systems are all critical. Identifying standout practices and highlighting areas for improvement is crucial to ensure that residents of Port Carbon have access to the best possible care for managing their hypertension.

For a comprehensive visualization of physician locations, practice characteristics, and resource availability within ZIP Code 17965, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers an interactive platform to visualize geographic data, allowing you to explore the healthcare landscape in detail and make informed decisions about your health.