18237, Mcadoo, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 18237, Mcadoo, Pennsylvania is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.93 percent of the residents in 18237 has some form of health insurance. 47.21 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.67 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 18237 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,146 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18237. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 532 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,620 health care providers accessible to residents in 18237, Mcadoo, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 18237 and Primary Care Availability in McAdoo

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality within a specific geographic area requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on ZIP code 18237 (which encompasses McAdoo, Pennsylvania) to provide a "Hypertension Score" assessment, evaluating factors crucial to managing hypertension, a prevalent health concern. This score reflects the availability and quality of primary care, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and other relevant metrics.

The foundation of effective hypertension management rests on accessible primary care. McAdoo, within ZIP code 18237, presents a unique challenge due to its relatively small population and potential for limited healthcare infrastructure. Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator. A high ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced patient follow-up, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes for those managing hypertension. Data from reputable sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the US Census Bureau would be essential to calculate these ratios accurately. A low physician-to-patient ratio, coupled with a high prevalence of hypertension within the community, would negatively impact the Hypertension Score.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This includes the presence of board-certified physicians, the adoption of evidence-based practices for hypertension management (such as guidelines from the American Heart Association), and the availability of on-site diagnostic services like blood pressure monitoring and lab testing. Practices that proactively manage patient risk factors, offer patient education on lifestyle modifications (diet, exercise, stress management), and provide medication management support would score higher. Identifying "standout practices" requires careful evaluation. This might involve reviewing patient testimonials, analyzing practice performance data (if publicly available), and consulting with local healthcare advocacy groups. Practices demonstrating a commitment to comprehensive hypertension care would significantly boost the overall score.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly relevant, especially in areas with limited physical access to healthcare. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and medication refills can significantly improve patient convenience and adherence to treatment plans. Practices actively utilizing telemedicine platforms, particularly those integrated with electronic health records for seamless data sharing, would receive a favorable assessment. The availability of telehealth services is particularly important for patients with mobility issues or transportation challenges, which are common in rural areas. The degree of telemedicine integration, and its impact on patient outcomes, is a key component of the Hypertension Score.

Mental health is inextricably linked to physical health, especially in the context of hypertension. Stress and anxiety can elevate blood pressure, while depression can hinder adherence to treatment regimens. The availability of mental health resources within the community is therefore a crucial factor. This includes access to psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and support groups. Practices that integrate mental health screening and referral services into their primary care offerings would be considered more comprehensive and would contribute positively to the Hypertension Score. The presence of readily accessible mental health support is a critical factor in overall patient well-being and successful hypertension management.

Furthermore, the analysis must consider socioeconomic factors. Poverty, lack of insurance coverage, and food insecurity can all negatively impact health outcomes. The Hypertension Score should reflect the presence of programs and resources aimed at addressing these social determinants of health. This might include partnerships with local food banks, community health centers, or organizations that provide assistance with medication costs. A community that actively addresses social barriers to care will receive a higher score.

The availability of specialized care, such as cardiology services, is another important consideration. While primary care physicians are the frontline in hypertension management, access to cardiologists for complex cases or when additional diagnostic testing is needed is essential. The distance to the nearest cardiology specialists, the availability of appointments, and the integration of cardiology services with primary care practices would be evaluated.

The overall Hypertension Score for doctors in ZIP code 18237 would be a composite of these factors. It would not be a simple numerical rating, but rather a nuanced assessment reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape. A high score would indicate a community with readily accessible primary care, a strong emphasis on evidence-based hypertension management, robust telemedicine adoption, integrated mental health resources, and programs addressing social determinants of health. Conversely, a low score would highlight areas for improvement, such as limited physician availability, a lack of telemedicine options, or inadequate mental health support.

This analysis, while comprehensive, is limited by the availability of data. Publicly available data sources, such as the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), and state health departments, would be used. However, the accuracy and completeness of the data can vary. Therefore, the Hypertension Score should be viewed as an evolving assessment, subject to refinement as new information becomes available.

Ultimately, the goal of this analysis is to provide a clear picture of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 18237, highlighting both strengths and areas needing improvement. This information can be used by healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members to improve the quality of care and promote better health outcomes for individuals managing hypertension. The analysis is an ongoing process, requiring continuous monitoring and adaptation to reflect changes in the healthcare environment.

To visualize this data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in McAdoo and surrounding areas, we recommend exploring the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, primary care accessibility, and other relevant data points, allowing for a more intuitive and comprehensive analysis.