18224, Freeland, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 18224, Freeland, Pennsylvania is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.44 percent of the residents in 18224 has some form of health insurance. 48.47 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 64.76 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 18224 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,381 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18224. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,311 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,602 health care providers accessible to residents in 18224, Freeland, Pennsylvania.

**Hypertension Score Analysis: Freeland, PA (ZIP Code 18224)**

This analysis provides a detailed assessment of hypertension management resources and primary care availability within Freeland, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18224). The goal is to evaluate the existing infrastructure for managing hypertension, including physician availability, healthcare practices, and supporting services. This assessment is crucial for understanding the community's capacity to address a prevalent health concern and identify areas for potential improvement.

The foundation of effective hypertension management rests on accessible primary care. Within Freeland, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. Accurate data on this ratio is difficult to pinpoint without specific access to real-time, comprehensive databases. However, publicly available information, such as the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) data, can offer estimates. These estimates, coupled with information from local healthcare providers, are essential to determine the availability of primary care physicians relative to the population size. A low physician-to-patient ratio, indicating a shortage of primary care providers, can significantly impact access to care, leading to delayed diagnoses and less frequent monitoring of hypertension.

Examining the healthcare practices within the Freeland area provides further insights. Identifying standout practices that demonstrate excellence in hypertension management is crucial. These practices often implement evidence-based guidelines, offer patient education programs, and utilize technology to enhance patient care. Key indicators of excellence include the use of electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient data management, consistent blood pressure monitoring protocols, and patient-centered care models. These practices may also have specialized programs for patients with complex hypertension, such as those with comorbid conditions like diabetes or kidney disease.

Telemedicine adoption represents another important aspect of the analysis. The use of telemedicine has expanded rapidly in recent years, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine offers the potential to improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in remote locations. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption among primary care providers in Freeland is crucial. This includes determining the types of telemedicine services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring), the technologies used, and the patient populations served. Practices that embrace telemedicine can improve the continuity of care and provide more convenient access to hypertension management services.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in the context of hypertension management, but their role is paramount. Chronic stress and mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression, can significantly impact blood pressure control. Therefore, the availability of mental health services within Freeland is a key consideration. This includes assessing the number of mental health providers, the types of services offered (e.g., therapy, medication management), and the accessibility of these services. Integrated care models, where mental health services are integrated into primary care settings, can be particularly beneficial for patients with hypertension.

Specific examples of healthcare practices in Freeland and their approaches to hypertension management are vital. Information gathered through local surveys, interviews with healthcare providers, and public health reports can provide valuable insights. This information would help to identify practices that are actively involved in hypertension screening, treatment, and patient education. For instance, a practice might offer regular blood pressure checks during routine visits, provide educational materials on lifestyle modifications, and refer patients to specialists as needed. Detailed information on these practices, including their staffing levels, technology use, and patient outcomes, is crucial for a comprehensive analysis.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the availability of supporting services, such as pharmacies, community health centers, and patient education programs. Pharmacies play a vital role in medication adherence, and community health centers can provide affordable care to underserved populations. Patient education programs, such as those offered by the American Heart Association, can empower patients to take an active role in managing their hypertension. Assessing the accessibility and quality of these supporting services is essential for a holistic assessment of hypertension management resources.

The evaluation of primary care availability in Freeland should also consider factors beyond physician-to-patient ratios. This includes the geographic distribution of primary care providers, the availability of after-hours care, and the acceptance of various insurance plans. Areas with limited access to primary care, particularly in rural settings, often experience poorer health outcomes. This analysis must consider these factors to provide a complete picture of the challenges and opportunities in hypertension management within the community.

To provide a complete picture, the analysis should also consider the socioeconomic factors that can influence hypertension rates and management. Factors such as income, education, and access to healthy food can affect a person’s risk of developing hypertension and their ability to manage the condition effectively. Addressing these social determinants of health is essential for achieving equitable health outcomes. Public health initiatives, community partnerships, and policies that support access to affordable healthcare and healthy living environments can all contribute to improved hypertension management.

In conclusion, a thorough analysis of hypertension management resources in Freeland (ZIP code 18224) requires a multi-faceted approach. This involves evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, assessing healthcare practices, examining telemedicine adoption, identifying mental health resources, and considering socioeconomic factors. This comprehensive assessment can help to identify strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement in the community's capacity to address hypertension. By understanding the current state of resources and identifying areas for improvement, stakeholders can work together to create a healthier Freeland for all residents.

For a visual representation of these healthcare resources and their geographic distribution, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide valuable insights into the location of healthcare providers, pharmacies, and other essential services, making it easier to understand the landscape of hypertension management within Freeland.