18249, Sugarloaf, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 18249, Sugarloaf, Pennsylvania is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.65 percent of the residents in 18249 has some form of health insurance. 31.49 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 87.02 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 18249 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 777 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18249. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 906 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,662 health care providers accessible to residents in 18249, Sugarloaf, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Sugarloaf, PA (ZIP Code 18249)

This analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of primary care resources in Sugarloaf, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18249), focusing on factors relevant to hypertension management. The goal is to understand the availability and quality of care for individuals managing or at risk of developing high blood pressure. We will evaluate physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and examine the integration of mental health resources, all crucial components of effective hypertension control. This analysis aims to provide a nuanced “Hypertension Score” perspective for the community.

The foundation of effective hypertension management lies in accessible primary care. Evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical starting point. While precise, real-time data on the exact number of primary care physicians actively practicing within ZIP code 18249 is difficult to obtain, publicly available resources such as the U.S. Census Bureau and the Pennsylvania Department of Health can offer estimates. These estimates, combined with data from healthcare directories, provide a baseline for calculating this ratio. A higher ratio (fewer patients per physician) generally indicates better access to care. However, it is essential to acknowledge that this is a snapshot in time, and physician availability can fluctuate.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of care is paramount. Identifying standout practices within Sugarloaf requires a multi-faceted approach. This involves reviewing patient satisfaction surveys (where available), assessing the qualifications and specializations of the physicians (e.g., board certifications in internal medicine or family medicine), and examining the availability of on-site diagnostic services like blood pressure monitoring and laboratory testing. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to preventative care, including regular screenings and patient education programs, are particularly valuable in the context of hypertension management. Further, it's important to note that while the overall population of Sugarloaf is relatively small, the surrounding areas may offer additional primary care options.

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool for expanding access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas like Sugarloaf. Evaluating telemedicine adoption among primary care practices is crucial. This includes assessing the availability of virtual consultations for routine follow-up appointments, medication management, and patient education. Practices that embrace telemedicine can significantly improve patient convenience and reduce barriers to care, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. The integration of remote blood pressure monitoring devices, which allow patients to track their readings at home and share them with their physician, further enhances the effectiveness of telemedicine in hypertension control.

The intricate relationship between mental health and hypertension is well-established. Chronic stress and mental health conditions like anxiety and depression can significantly impact blood pressure levels and adherence to treatment plans. Therefore, assessing the availability of mental health resources within primary care practices is a critical component of this analysis. This includes evaluating whether practices have integrated mental health professionals (e.g., psychologists, psychiatrists, or licensed clinical social workers) into their care teams. Furthermore, it involves determining whether practices offer or facilitate access to mental health counseling and support services. The ability to address both physical and mental health needs within a coordinated care model is essential for optimizing hypertension outcomes.

The “Hypertension Score” for primary care in Sugarloaf, PA (18249) is therefore a composite measure. It is not simply a number but a reflection of the interconnectedness of several factors: physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of care offered by individual practices, the extent of telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. Practices that excel in all these areas contribute to a higher score and, more importantly, to better outcomes for patients with hypertension. The score is dynamic, reflecting the evolving healthcare landscape and the ongoing efforts of providers to improve patient care.

The challenge in this area is not only the availability of primary care but also the accessibility of specialists, such as cardiologists and nephrologists, who are essential for managing complex cases of hypertension. While this analysis focuses primarily on primary care, the availability of these specialists in the surrounding region is also a relevant factor, as it impacts the overall continuum of care. Furthermore, the socio-economic factors of the community must be considered. The ability of patients to afford medications, access healthy food, and maintain a healthy lifestyle all contribute to the effectiveness of hypertension management.

Individual practices may vary significantly. Some practices may have a strong focus on preventative care, offering comprehensive patient education programs and proactively managing risk factors. Others may be more focused on treating existing conditions. Some may have embraced telemedicine, while others may be lagging. The “Hypertension Score” reflects this diversity, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape. It is crucial for patients to research and select a primary care provider that aligns with their individual needs and preferences.

The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) is also a factor to consider. EHRs facilitate the seamless exchange of patient information between providers, improving care coordination and reducing the risk of medical errors. Practices with robust EHR systems are better equipped to manage patient data, track progress, and tailor treatment plans. The ability to access and analyze patient data is essential for identifying trends, monitoring outcomes, and improving the overall quality of care.

Finally, it is important to acknowledge the limitations of this analysis. Data availability can be a challenge, and the information presented here is based on publicly available resources and estimates. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, and the findings may not reflect the most up-to-date information. However, this analysis provides a valuable starting point for understanding the state of primary care in Sugarloaf, PA, and its implications for hypertension management.

For a more detailed and interactive view of the healthcare landscape in Sugarloaf, PA, and the surrounding areas, including the location of primary care practices, specialists, and pharmacies, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides a powerful platform for visualizing and analyzing geographic data, enabling you to gain a deeper understanding of healthcare access and resources in your community.