17982, Tuscarora, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 17982, Tuscarora, Pennsylvania is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.78 percent of the residents in 17982 has some form of health insurance. 53.33 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.62 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 17982 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 37 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17982. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 173 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,811 health care providers accessible to residents in 17982, Tuscarora, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 17982 & Primary Care in Tuscarora

Analyzing the landscape of hypertension management within ZIP Code 17982, encompassing the Tuscarora area, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis moves beyond simple lists, aiming to provide a nuanced understanding of the resources available to patients managing hypertension. We will consider factors crucial to effective care, including physician availability, innovative practice models, and the integration of mental health support.

The core of successful hypertension management lies in accessible primary care. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is paramount. Data from the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Pennsylvania Department of Health can be utilized to determine the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) actively practicing within the 17982 ZIP code. Comparing this figure to the estimated population of Tuscarora provides a baseline understanding of access. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per patient, can create challenges, leading to longer wait times for appointments and potentially hindering proactive management of hypertension.

Beyond raw numbers, the distribution of these PCPs matters. Are they concentrated in a single practice or spread across several locations? Are there any federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or other community health clinics present? These facilities often serve a larger population, including those with lower incomes or limited access to care. Their presence can significantly impact the overall hypertension score, as they frequently offer integrated services, including education and support groups.

The quality of care provided by individual practices is another critical element. This is where a deeper dive into practice profiles becomes essential. Publicly available data, such as the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) ratings, if available for local practices, can offer insights into the quality of care, particularly regarding adherence to established guidelines for hypertension management. These guidelines typically involve regular blood pressure monitoring, medication adherence, lifestyle modifications (diet and exercise), and the management of comorbid conditions.

Certain practices within 17982 might stand out due to their innovative approaches. For instance, a practice that proactively utilizes electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient progress, send automated reminders for medication refills and appointments, and offers personalized education materials would likely receive a higher score. Another potential standout could be a practice that actively collaborates with local pharmacies to ensure medication adherence and address potential side effects.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly relevant in hypertension management. Practices that offer telehealth consultations for follow-up appointments, medication adjustments, and lifestyle counseling can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those living in remote areas. The availability of remote blood pressure monitoring devices, integrated with the practice's EHR system, further enhances the ability to monitor and manage hypertension effectively.

The link between mental health and hypertension is well-established. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can contribute to elevated blood pressure and hinder adherence to treatment plans. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical factor in assessing the hypertension score. Does the practice have an in-house behavioral health specialist? Do they have established referral pathways to local mental health providers? The integration of mental health support into the care plan can lead to better patient outcomes.

Lifestyle modifications are crucial for hypertension management. Practices that offer or partner with programs promoting healthy eating, regular physical activity, and smoking cessation contribute positively to the overall score. This could include collaborations with local gyms, nutritionists, or support groups. The availability of culturally sensitive resources is also important, ensuring that patients from diverse backgrounds receive appropriate guidance and support.

Evaluating the availability of specialized services, such as cardiology, is also relevant. While primary care physicians are at the forefront of hypertension management, access to cardiology consultations for complex cases or those requiring specialized interventions is essential. The proximity of cardiology specialists and the efficiency of referral processes impact the overall score.

The overall 'Hypertension Score' for doctors in 17982 is not just a number but a reflection of the entire healthcare ecosystem. It considers physician availability, the quality of care, the adoption of innovative technologies, the integration of mental health resources, and the support for lifestyle modifications. The score will vary between practices, reflecting their individual strengths and weaknesses.

In conclusion, a comprehensive analysis of hypertension management within the 17982 ZIP code reveals a complex picture. While the availability of primary care physicians is a fundamental factor, the quality of care, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health support, and the promotion of healthy lifestyles are equally important. A high 'Hypertension Score' indicates a healthcare system that is well-equipped to effectively manage hypertension and improve patient outcomes.

For a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Tuscarora and to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, practice types, and access to specialized services, we encourage you to explore the powerful mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can help you visualize the data and identify areas of strength and areas that need improvement.