18221, Drifton, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 18221, Drifton, Pennsylvania is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.09 percent of the residents in 18221 has some form of health insurance. 47.78 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.05 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 18221 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 113 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18221. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 68 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,603 health care providers accessible to residents in 18221, Drifton, Pennsylvania.

The analysis focuses on hypertension management within the 18221 ZIP code, specifically concerning the availability and quality of primary care services in Drifton, Pennsylvania. This evaluation aims to provide a “Hypertension Score” assessment, encompassing factors crucial for effective hypertension control, including physician access, practice characteristics, and resource integration.

The foundation of effective hypertension management lies in accessible primary care. The physician-to-patient ratio in Drifton, within the 18221 ZIP code, is a critical initial metric. Data from publicly available sources, such as the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the US Census Bureau, must be analyzed to determine the number of active primary care physicians (PCPs) practicing within the ZIP code and the estimated population. A low physician-to-patient ratio, indicating a higher number of patients per PCP, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced time dedicated to individual patient care, negatively impacting hypertension management. Conversely, a favorable ratio suggests better access and improved opportunities for consistent monitoring and treatment adjustments. This ratio will directly influence the initial score.

Beyond mere numbers, the operational characteristics of primary care practices significantly influence the “Hypertension Score.” Practices employing electronic health records (EHRs) are generally better positioned for comprehensive patient management. EHRs facilitate data tracking, allowing for the identification of patients with hypertension, the monitoring of blood pressure readings, medication adherence, and the timely scheduling of follow-up appointments. Practices utilizing EHRs with integrated clinical decision support tools can also improve the quality of care by prompting physicians to follow evidence-based guidelines for hypertension treatment. The presence of certified diabetes educators or registered dietitians within a practice further enhances the score, as these professionals can provide vital support for lifestyle modifications, a cornerstone of hypertension management.

The “Hypertension Score” also considers the availability and utilization of telemedicine services. Telemedicine, including virtual consultations and remote patient monitoring, offers significant advantages in managing hypertension. It can increase access to care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in geographically isolated areas. Remote blood pressure monitoring, coupled with virtual follow-up appointments, enables physicians to closely track patient progress and make timely adjustments to treatment plans. Practices actively embracing and effectively utilizing telemedicine will receive a higher score, reflecting their commitment to patient convenience and improved health outcomes.

Mental health is intrinsically linked to hypertension management. Chronic stress and anxiety can elevate blood pressure, making it more difficult to control. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within or in close proximity to primary care practices is a crucial factor in the “Hypertension Score.” Practices that offer on-site behavioral health services or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals will score higher. This integration allows for a holistic approach to patient care, addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of hypertension.

Identifying “standout practices” within the 18221 ZIP code requires a more in-depth analysis. This involves evaluating practices based on several key indicators. Patient satisfaction surveys, available through sources like the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) or Healthgrades, provide insights into patient experiences. Practices with consistently high patient satisfaction scores, particularly regarding communication, appointment availability, and overall care, will be recognized. Furthermore, practices actively participating in quality improvement initiatives, such as those focused on hypertension control through programs like the American Medical Association’s (AMA) “Check. Change. Control.” program, demonstrate a commitment to excellence and will be highlighted.

The “Hypertension Score” is not static; it is a dynamic measure that should be regularly updated. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, with new technologies, treatment guidelines, and patient needs emerging. Regular reassessment, incorporating the latest data and best practices, ensures the score remains relevant and reflects the current state of hypertension management in Drifton. This ongoing evaluation allows for the identification of areas for improvement and the promotion of best practices.

The final “Hypertension Score” for the 18221 ZIP code will be a composite measure, weighted based on the relative importance of each factor discussed. The physician-to-patient ratio will be a significant component, reflecting the fundamental access to care. The presence of EHRs, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and patient satisfaction will contribute to the overall score, reflecting the quality and comprehensiveness of care. Standout practices, identified through a rigorous evaluation process, will be recognized for their exemplary performance.

This analysis provides a framework for understanding the current state of hypertension management in Drifton, Pennsylvania. The goal is to provide a clear and concise assessment of the resources available to patients and to highlight areas where improvements can be made. This information can be used by patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers to improve the quality of care and outcomes for individuals with hypertension.

For a visual representation of the “Hypertension Score” analysis, including practice locations, physician density, and resource availability, explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive mapping tools that allow you to visualize the data discussed in this analysis, providing a comprehensive and user-friendly overview of hypertension management resources in the 18221 ZIP code.