17970, Saint Clair, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 17970, Saint Clair, Pennsylvania is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.73 percent of the residents in 17970 has some form of health insurance. 44.06 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.49 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 17970 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 536 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17970. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 677 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,536 health care providers accessible to residents in 17970, Saint Clair, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Saint Clair, PA (ZIP Code 17970)

Analyzing the landscape of hypertension management within Saint Clair, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17970) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians, assess physician-to-patient ratios, highlight notable practices, explore telemedicine adoption, and examine the integration of mental health resources. The ultimate goal is to provide a 'Hypertension Score' assessment, offering insights into the quality and accessibility of care for individuals managing this prevalent condition.

The foundation of effective hypertension management lies in accessible primary care. Saint Clair, a borough in Schuylkill County, presents a unique challenge. Rural areas often grapple with physician shortages, potentially impacting the ability of residents to receive timely diagnoses, consistent monitoring, and appropriate treatment. To assess the situation, we must consider the number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the 17970 ZIP code, or within a reasonable radius, and compare that figure to the population size. This physician-to-patient ratio provides a critical benchmark. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, could signal potential difficulties in securing appointments, leading to delayed care and potentially poorer health outcomes for individuals with hypertension.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality and reputation of local primary care practices are paramount. Identifying standout practices involves examining factors such as patient reviews, accreditation status (e.g., National Committee for Quality Assurance), and participation in quality improvement programs focused on hypertension management. Practices demonstrating a commitment to evidence-based guidelines, patient education, and proactive monitoring protocols would likely receive higher marks in our 'Hypertension Score' analysis. The integration of electronic health records (EHRs) and their effective utilization for tracking patient data, medication adherence, and blood pressure control are also crucial indicators of a practice's commitment to optimal care.

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool, particularly in rural settings, to enhance access to healthcare. Its adoption within Saint Clair is a significant factor. Practices embracing telehealth capabilities, such as virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and online patient portals, can significantly improve the convenience and accessibility of care for individuals with hypertension. A high 'Hypertension Score' would reflect practices actively utilizing telemedicine to manage patients, providing a convenient option for follow-up appointments, medication adjustments, and educational resources.

The connection between hypertension and mental health is undeniable. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can exacerbate hypertension, while the diagnosis and management of hypertension can, in turn, impact mental well-being. Therefore, the integration of mental health resources within primary care practices is a critical component of a comprehensive 'Hypertension Score' assessment. Practices that offer on-site mental health services, collaborate with local mental health providers, or provide resources for stress management and emotional support would receive higher scores. This holistic approach recognizes the interconnectedness of physical and mental health and aims to provide comprehensive care for individuals with hypertension.

Specific examples of practices within the 17970 ZIP code, or in close proximity, would be analyzed to provide a more concrete assessment. For example, a practice known for its commitment to patient education, such as offering regular classes on lifestyle modifications (diet, exercise, stress reduction) would be highly rated. A practice actively participating in a regional hypertension management program, demonstrating a commitment to quality improvement and data-driven outcomes, would also score favorably. Conversely, practices with limited availability, long wait times, or a lack of telehealth options would likely receive lower scores.

The 'Hypertension Score' would be calculated based on a weighted system, considering physician-to-patient ratios, practice quality indicators, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resource integration. Each component would be assigned a specific weight, reflecting its relative importance in providing effective hypertension management. The final score would then be used to rank the overall quality and accessibility of care within Saint Clair.

The challenges of assessing primary care availability in rural areas like Saint Clair are numerous. Data collection can be difficult, and information on practice-specific details may be limited. However, by utilizing publicly available resources, patient reviews, and direct inquiries to local practices, a comprehensive assessment can be achieved.

The goal of this analysis is to provide a valuable resource for residents of Saint Clair, as well as healthcare providers and policymakers. By identifying strengths and weaknesses in the local healthcare landscape, we can work towards improving hypertension management and ultimately, the health and well-being of the community. This analysis is intended to be a starting point for further investigation and continuous improvement.

This 'Hypertension Score' analysis is a snapshot in time. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, with new practices opening, telemedicine technologies advancing, and mental health resources becoming more readily available. Therefore, regular updates and reassessments are essential to maintain an accurate and relevant picture of the healthcare environment.

To gain a more visual and interactive understanding of the primary care landscape, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and patient demographics, consider utilizing the powerful mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides a user-friendly platform for visualizing healthcare data, allowing for in-depth analysis and informed decision-making.