18240, Nesquehoning, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 18240, Nesquehoning, Pennsylvania is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.71 percent of the residents in 18240 has some form of health insurance. 46.11 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 51.79 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 18240 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 737 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18240. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 862 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,656 health care providers accessible to residents in 18240, Nesquehoning, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Nesquehoning, PA (ZIP Code 18240)

Analyzing hypertension management within Nesquehoning, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18240) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers the availability of primary care physicians, their practices regarding hypertension treatment, and the broader healthcare ecosystem's support for patients managing this chronic condition. It aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the local landscape, moving beyond simple metrics to assess the quality and accessibility of care.

The foundation of effective hypertension management lies in accessible primary care. Nesquehoning, a small borough, presents unique challenges in this regard. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. While precise figures fluctuate, the area likely faces a shortage of primary care physicians compared to national averages. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment initiation. Further research into the specific ratio, ideally comparing it to Pennsylvania state averages and national benchmarks, is essential for a complete picture.

Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of primary care physicians matters. Are they concentrated in a central location, or are they spread out to serve the community effectively? The geographic accessibility of these physicians is paramount, especially for elderly residents or those with limited transportation options. The availability of transportation services, such as public transit or ride-sharing programs, can significantly impact a patient's ability to access care.

Evaluating individual practices within the ZIP code is crucial. Some practices may stand out in their approach to hypertension management. These "standout practices" could be identified by examining their patient outcomes, adherence to clinical guidelines, and patient satisfaction scores. They might utilize innovative strategies like proactive patient outreach, comprehensive patient education programs, or dedicated hypertension clinics. Investigating the specific protocols these practices employ for blood pressure monitoring, medication management, and lifestyle counseling would provide valuable insights.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The utilization of telehealth services can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural or underserved areas. Telemedicine allows for remote consultations, medication management, and follow-up appointments, reducing the need for in-person visits. Assessing the extent to which local primary care physicians offer telemedicine services, and the types of services offered (e.g., virtual visits, remote blood pressure monitoring), is essential. The availability of reliable internet access within the community is a prerequisite for successful telemedicine implementation.

Hypertension is often intertwined with other health conditions, including mental health. The presence of mental health resources within the community is therefore indirectly linked to hypertension management. Stress and anxiety can significantly impact blood pressure levels. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, who can provide counseling and support, is therefore crucial. Examining the integration of mental health services into primary care practices, or the ease with which patients can access mental health support, provides a more holistic view of care.

Furthermore, the availability of community resources is important. This includes access to educational programs about hypertension, healthy eating, and exercise. Community health centers, local pharmacies, and support groups can play a vital role in empowering patients to manage their condition effectively. Assessing the presence and accessibility of these resources is an important aspect of the overall evaluation.

The quality of care also depends on the use of evidence-based guidelines. Are physicians adhering to the latest guidelines for hypertension diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring? This involves assessing their use of appropriate medications, lifestyle recommendations, and regular blood pressure checks. The availability of electronic health records (EHRs) can facilitate the implementation of these guidelines and improve care coordination.

The analysis should also consider the patient perspective. Gathering patient feedback through surveys or focus groups can provide valuable insights into their experiences with the healthcare system. This can identify areas where care is lacking and highlight opportunities for improvement. Patient satisfaction scores, wait times, and the overall patient-physician relationship are all important factors to consider.

The local hospital, if present, also plays a crucial role. The hospital's emergency department is the last resort for patients experiencing hypertensive crises. The hospital's resources, including its cardiology department and its ability to manage acute hypertension, are important for the community.

In conclusion, assessing hypertension management in Nesquehoning (ZIP Code 18240) requires a comprehensive approach. Analyzing physician-to-patient ratios, evaluating individual practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and considering the availability of mental health and community resources are all essential components. This assessment should incorporate patient feedback, adherence to clinical guidelines, and the presence of a supportive healthcare ecosystem.

To visualize and further explore the healthcare landscape in Nesquehoning and surrounding areas, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and community resource availability, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can help you gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare infrastructure and identify areas where improvements are needed.