18232, Lansford, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 18232, Lansford, Pennsylvania is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.16 percent of the residents in 18232 has some form of health insurance. 62.10 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 49.66 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 18232 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,139 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18232. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 633 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,737 health care providers accessible to residents in 18232, Lansford, Pennsylvania.

**Hypertension Score Analysis: Lansford, PA (ZIP Code 18232)**

The following analysis provides an assessment of hypertension management capabilities within ZIP code 18232 (Lansford, PA), focusing on primary care availability and related factors. The goal is to evaluate the resources available to residents for managing hypertension, a critical health concern, and to identify areas of strength and potential improvement. This analysis is based on publicly available data and assumptions regarding clinical practices in the area.

**Primary Care Landscape and Physician Availability**

Lansford, a borough in Carbon County, Pennsylvania, faces challenges common to rural areas regarding healthcare access. A key indicator is the physician-to-patient ratio. Determining the exact ratio requires precise data, but we can make some estimations. Based on population data for 18232 and general estimates for the region, the physician-to-patient ratio may be higher than the national average. This suggests a potential scarcity of primary care physicians, which can directly impact hypertension management. Fewer physicians mean longer wait times for appointments, reduced opportunities for preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnoses.

The availability of primary care physicians is crucial for hypertension management. Regular checkups, blood pressure monitoring, and medication adjustments are all essential components of effective treatment. A shortage of these professionals can lead to a cascade of negative consequences, including uncontrolled hypertension and an increased risk of cardiovascular events. This underscores the need to assess the current physician distribution and identify any gaps in coverage.

**Standout Practices and Hypertension Management Protocols**

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive into the specific protocols and resources of each clinic. However, we can make some assumptions. Practices that actively promote and implement evidence-based hypertension guidelines are likely to perform well. This includes routine blood pressure screenings, the use of ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) when appropriate, and the consistent use of medication protocols based on current guidelines.

Clinics that integrate patient education into their practice are also likely to be more effective. This includes providing patients with information about lifestyle modifications, such as diet and exercise, and empowering them to actively manage their condition. Practices that offer support groups or educational materials in multiple languages are also more likely to reach a broader segment of the population.

Another key factor is the availability of on-site diagnostic services. Practices that have access to laboratory testing and electrocardiograms (EKGs) can provide more comprehensive care and facilitate timely diagnoses. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) is also critical. EHRs enable physicians to track patient data, monitor progress, and make informed decisions about treatment plans.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact**

Telemedicine offers a promising solution to improve healthcare access, especially in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine technologies can help bridge the gap created by physician shortages and geographic limitations. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and medication management through telemedicine platforms can improve patient outcomes.

Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for hypertension management. Patients can monitor their blood pressure at home and share the data with their physician remotely. This allows for more frequent monitoring and timely adjustments to medication regimens. Telemedicine also reduces the need for frequent in-person visits, which can be a significant advantage for patients with limited mobility or transportation challenges.

The level of telemedicine adoption within 18232 requires investigation. Determining the types of telemedicine services offered, the platforms used, and the patient acceptance rates is crucial. Successful telemedicine implementation requires investment in technology, training for healthcare providers, and patient education.

**Mental Health Resources and their Role**

Hypertension is often linked to mental health. Stress, anxiety, and depression can contribute to elevated blood pressure and make it more difficult to manage the condition. The availability of mental health resources is therefore an important consideration in assessing the overall healthcare landscape.

Practices that integrate mental health services into their primary care setting are better equipped to address the complex needs of their patients. This includes providing access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, and offering screening for mental health conditions. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health providers is essential for providing comprehensive care.

The presence of community mental health resources, such as support groups and counseling services, is also important. These resources can provide patients with the support they need to manage their stress and improve their overall well-being. Assessing the availability and accessibility of mental health resources in 18232 is a crucial part of the hypertension score analysis.

**Overall Assessment and Areas for Improvement**

Based on the available information, the hypertension management capabilities in Lansford, PA (18232) likely face challenges common to rural areas, particularly regarding physician availability. The physician-to-patient ratio may be less favorable than the national average, potentially leading to reduced access to care.

The adoption of telemedicine and the integration of mental health resources are critical areas for improvement. Increasing the use of telemedicine can help bridge the gap created by physician shortages and improve patient outcomes. Integrating mental health services into primary care settings can address the complex needs of patients and improve their overall well-being.

Further investigation is needed to assess the specific protocols and resources of each clinic. This includes evaluating the use of evidence-based hypertension guidelines, the availability of on-site diagnostic services, and the integration of patient education. The overall goal is to create a comprehensive picture of the healthcare landscape and identify areas where improvements can be made to enhance the quality of care for patients with hypertension.

**Actionable Insights with CartoChrome Maps**

To gain a more detailed understanding of the healthcare landscape in Lansford, PA (18232), and to pinpoint specific locations of primary care providers, pharmacies, and other relevant resources, explore the power of spatial data visualization. CartoChrome Maps can provide a visual representation of healthcare access, allowing for a more granular analysis of physician distribution, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources.

**Click here to explore the healthcare landscape of Lansford, PA, and gain valuable insights into hypertension management using CartoChrome Maps.**