18218, Coaldale, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 18218, Coaldale, Pennsylvania is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.56 percent of the residents in 18218 has some form of health insurance. 54.86 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 55.80 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 18218 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 582 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18218. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 342 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,666 health care providers accessible to residents in 18218, Coaldale, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Coaldale, PA (ZIP Code 18218)

Analyzing the availability and quality of hypertension management within Coaldale, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18218) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will examine primary care physician availability, the prevalence of hypertension within the community, the resources available to manage the condition, and the adoption of innovative healthcare solutions. The ultimate goal is to provide a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" assessment, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape.

The foundation of hypertension management is access to primary care physicians (PCPs). The physician-to-patient ratio in Coaldale and the surrounding areas is a crucial indicator. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Researching the current ratio for the area is the first step in assessing the overall accessibility of care. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) would provide a baseline for comparison against national averages.

Beyond sheer numbers, the distribution of PCPs is important. Are physicians concentrated in specific areas, potentially leaving some residents underserved? Are there sufficient PCPs accepting new patients, including those with Medicare or Medicaid, which is crucial given the demographics of the area? The presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or other safety-net providers would be a positive indicator, as these facilities often prioritize serving vulnerable populations.

Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code requires a deeper dive. This involves examining factors beyond physician-to-patient ratios. Practices with robust patient education programs, emphasizing lifestyle modifications like diet and exercise, are essential. Does the practice utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively to track patient data, monitor blood pressure readings, and automate medication reminders? Practices that actively engage in population health management, identifying and proactively reaching out to patients with uncontrolled hypertension, demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive care. Reviews from patients, accessible through online platforms, can provide valuable insights into the quality of care and the patient experience.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor in assessing the "Hypertension Score." Telemedicine offers significant advantages, particularly in rural or underserved areas. Remote blood pressure monitoring, virtual consultations, and medication management via telehealth can improve patient adherence, reduce the need for frequent in-person visits, and enhance access to care. Assessing the availability of telehealth services among local PCPs is crucial. Are physicians offering virtual appointments? Do they utilize remote monitoring devices? Are these services accessible to all patients, regardless of their insurance coverage or technological proficiency?

The link between hypertension and mental health is well-established. Chronic stress and anxiety can significantly impact blood pressure control. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is an essential component of effective hypertension management. Assessing the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, within the Coaldale area is important. Do PCPs have established referral pathways to mental health services? Are there programs that integrate mental health care into primary care settings? The presence of support groups or community-based mental health initiatives would further enhance the overall "Hypertension Score."

Furthermore, the availability of specialized services, such as cardiology, is important. Access to cardiologists for complex cases or patients with co-morbid conditions is crucial. Assessing the proximity of cardiology practices and the ease of referral from PCPs is necessary. The presence of diagnostic facilities, such as those offering echocardiograms or stress tests, within a reasonable distance is also a positive indicator.

The prevalence of hypertension within the community also impacts the overall "Hypertension Score." Public health data on hypertension rates in Coaldale and the surrounding areas is important. This data can be compared to state and national averages to understand the burden of the disease within the local population. Higher prevalence rates may indicate a greater need for resources and interventions.

The "Hypertension Score" is not a static number; it's a dynamic assessment reflecting the evolving healthcare landscape. Regular updates and reassessments are necessary to track progress and identify areas for improvement. This analysis should be viewed as a starting point for a more in-depth investigation, engaging with local healthcare providers, community organizations, and residents to gain a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities in hypertension management within Coaldale, PA.

Data-driven insights are paramount. To visualize and analyze the complex data points discussed above, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can help you identify areas with limited access to care, visualize physician distribution, and understand the geographic distribution of hypertension prevalence.