18255, Weatherly, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 18255, Weatherly, Pennsylvania is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.46 percent of the residents in 18255 has some form of health insurance. 40.48 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.16 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 18255 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 895 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18255. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 774 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,750 health care providers accessible to residents in 18255, Weatherly, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Weatherly, PA (ZIP Code 18255)

Analyzing healthcare access and quality within Weatherly, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18255), specifically focusing on hypertension management, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis examines the availability of primary care physicians, physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, all critical components in effectively addressing and managing hypertension within the community. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" analysis, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement.

The foundation of hypertension management lies in accessible primary care. Within Weatherly, the concentration of primary care physicians is a critical factor. Determining the exact number of practicing primary care physicians within the 18255 ZIP code is the first step. This data point, combined with the estimated population of Weatherly, allows for the calculation of a physician-to-patient ratio. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can significantly hinder access to timely check-ups, screenings, and ongoing care, all vital for hypertension control. Conversely, a favorable ratio suggests greater accessibility and the potential for more proactive management.

Beyond the raw numbers, understanding the operational capacity of existing practices is crucial. This includes factors like appointment availability, wait times, and the acceptance of various insurance plans. Practices that offer same-day or next-day appointments and accept a wide range of insurance providers enhance accessibility and encourage regular check-ups, which are essential for early detection and consistent monitoring of blood pressure. The presence of extended hours or weekend availability further improves accessibility, particularly for individuals with work or other commitments during standard business hours.

Identifying standout practices within Weatherly is key. These practices demonstrate excellence in hypertension management through a combination of factors. They may have a dedicated focus on preventative care, offer comprehensive patient education programs on lifestyle modifications (diet, exercise, stress management), and utilize evidence-based guidelines for diagnosis and treatment. They might also have implemented patient portals for easy communication, medication refills, and access to health records, streamlining the patient experience and promoting adherence to treatment plans. Furthermore, practices that actively track and monitor patient outcomes, using data to improve their services, deserve recognition.

Telemedicine adoption plays an increasingly important role in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas like Weatherly. Telemedicine can significantly improve access to care by reducing geographical barriers and offering convenient options for follow-up appointments, medication management, and remote monitoring of blood pressure. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, providing virtual consultations and remote monitoring tools, demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care and can potentially improve hypertension control rates within the community.

The integration of mental health resources is another critical aspect of a comprehensive hypertension management strategy. Stress and anxiety are known contributors to elevated blood pressure. Practices that offer on-site mental health services, or have established strong referral networks with mental health professionals, are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients. This integrated approach recognizes the interconnectedness of physical and mental health and can lead to improved patient outcomes.

Evaluating the availability of community resources is also important. This includes access to affordable pharmacies, support groups for individuals with hypertension, and programs that promote healthy lifestyles. The presence of local exercise facilities, farmers' markets offering fresh produce, and community-based health education initiatives can support patients in adopting and maintaining healthy habits.

The "Hypertension Score" for Weatherly, Pennsylvania (18255) is ultimately a composite measure, reflecting the interplay of all these factors. It's a dynamic assessment that needs to be regularly updated to reflect changes in physician availability, practice innovations, and the evolving healthcare landscape. A high score would indicate strong primary care access, a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, widespread telemedicine adoption, integrated mental health services, and robust community resources. Conversely, a lower score would highlight areas needing improvement, such as physician shortages, limited telemedicine options, or a lack of support for mental health and healthy lifestyles.

This analysis is not a static snapshot, but a starting point for ongoing assessment and improvement. The data gathered should be used to identify areas where resources need to be directed, policies need to be changed, and patient education needs to be enhanced. The goal is to create a healthcare environment that supports effective hypertension management and contributes to the overall health and well-being of the Weatherly community.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Weatherly and surrounding areas, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and the distribution of community resources, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their platform provides a dynamic and insightful view of the data discussed, allowing you to analyze trends and identify opportunities for improvement.