18239, Milnesville, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 18239, Milnesville, Pennsylvania is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 77.98 percent of the residents in 18239 has some form of health insurance. 77.98 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 0.00 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 18239 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18239. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 42 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,609 health care providers accessible to residents in 18239, Milnesville, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 18239 and Primary Care Availability in Milnesville

Evaluating healthcare access and quality, particularly concerning conditions like hypertension, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on ZIP code 18239, encompassing the Milnesville area, to assess the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) and related resources. We will develop a hypothetical "Hypertension Score" based on several key factors, offering insights into the area's preparedness for managing this prevalent health issue. This score is not a formal, scientifically validated metric, but rather a conceptual framework for understanding the local healthcare landscape.

The first critical element is physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, meaning a high number of patients per PCP, can strain the system, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced time spent with each patient. Publicly available data, such as those from the US Department of Health and Human Services or state medical boards, can be used to determine the number of PCPs practicing within the 18239 ZIP code. Population data from the US Census Bureau can then be used to calculate the ratio. A high ratio would negatively impact the Hypertension Score.

Beyond the raw number of physicians, the type of practice and the services offered are crucial. Are the PCPs part of larger, integrated healthcare systems, or are they independent practitioners? Integrated systems often have greater resources, including access to specialists, electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate care coordination, and support staff. The Hypertension Score would benefit from a higher proportion of PCPs affiliated with robust healthcare systems.

The availability of specialized care is also critical. While PCPs are the first line of defense, access to cardiologists, nephrologists, and endocrinologists is essential for managing complex cases of hypertension. The presence of these specialists within a reasonable geographic proximity, or the ease of referral to specialists outside the immediate area, significantly impacts the Hypertension Score.

Another key factor is the adoption of telemedicine. Telemedicine allows patients to access care remotely, which can be particularly beneficial for those in rural areas or with mobility limitations. Virtual consultations for medication management, blood pressure monitoring, and lifestyle counseling can improve patient adherence and outcomes. Practices actively utilizing telemedicine would receive a higher score.

The availability of mental health resources is another crucial element. Hypertension and mental health often have a complex interplay. Stress, anxiety, and depression can contribute to elevated blood pressure, and conversely, the diagnosis and management of hypertension can impact mental well-being. The presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, within the area, or readily accessible referral pathways, would improve the Hypertension Score.

The quality of care provided by individual practices also plays a significant role. This can be assessed through several indicators. Patient satisfaction surveys, publicly available data on clinical outcomes (if available), and the implementation of evidence-based guidelines for hypertension management (e.g., those from the American Heart Association or the American College of Cardiology) are all relevant. Practices demonstrating a commitment to quality improvement would be viewed favorably.

Identifying "standout practices" requires a deeper dive into the specific practices within the 18239 ZIP code. This involves reviewing practice websites, patient reviews, and potentially conducting interviews with healthcare professionals. Practices that excel in areas such as patient communication, care coordination, and the implementation of innovative approaches to hypertension management would be considered exemplary. These practices would have a positive impact on the overall Hypertension Score.

Furthermore, the availability of patient education resources is vital. Providing patients with information about hypertension, its risk factors, and lifestyle modifications is crucial for empowering them to take an active role in their care. Practices that offer educational materials, support groups, or access to certified health educators would enhance the Hypertension Score.

The infrastructure supporting healthcare delivery also matters. The presence of pharmacies within the area, access to affordable medications, and the availability of transportation for patients are all important considerations. A well-developed infrastructure facilitates access to care and improves patient outcomes.

A hypothetical Hypertension Score for 18239 would consider these factors. A high score would indicate a well-resourced area with a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, robust access to specialists, widespread telemedicine adoption, readily available mental health services, and a commitment to quality improvement. A low score would highlight areas for improvement, such as addressing physician shortages, expanding telemedicine capabilities, and improving access to mental health resources.

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in 18239, and to visualize the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome can help you visualize the location of PCPs, specialists, pharmacies, and other relevant resources, providing a valuable tool for assessing healthcare access and identifying potential gaps in care.