18403, Archbald, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 18403, Archbald, Pennsylvania is 84 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.67 percent of the residents in 18403 has some form of health insurance. 33.30 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.16 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 18403 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,505 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18403. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,060 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,995 health care providers accessible to residents in 18403, Archbald, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 18403 and Primary Care Availability in Archbald

Analyzing the landscape of hypertension care within ZIP code 18403, which encompasses the town of Archbald, Pennsylvania, requires a multifaceted approach. A ‘Hypertension Score’ is not a simple metric but a composite evaluation considering various factors impacting patient access to care, quality of treatment, and overall health outcomes. This analysis delves into physician availability, practice characteristics, technological integration, and the crucial link between hypertension and mental health, providing a nuanced understanding of the current situation and areas for improvement.

The initial assessment focuses on the physician-to-patient ratio. Archbald, a relatively small community, likely faces challenges in this area. A limited number of primary care physicians (PCPs) can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potential delays in diagnosis and treatment of hypertension. Publicly available data, such as that from the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), would be essential to determine the exact physician-to-patient ratio within 18403. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of PCPs, would significantly impact the Hypertension Score negatively.

Beyond the raw numbers, the characteristics of existing practices are crucial. Are the practices accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate diverse schedules? Do they have bilingual staff to serve a broader population? Practices that prioritize patient access and convenience will naturally contribute positively to the Hypertension Score. Furthermore, the availability of specialized care, such as cardiologists or nephrologists, within a reasonable distance is vital for managing complex hypertension cases. The proximity of these specialists and the ease of referral processes are critical components of a well-rounded hypertension care system.

The integration of technology plays a pivotal role in modern healthcare, particularly in managing chronic conditions like hypertension. Telemedicine adoption is a significant factor in the Hypertension Score. Practices utilizing telehealth platforms can provide remote blood pressure monitoring, virtual consultations, and medication management support. This can significantly improve patient adherence to treatment plans and reduce the need for frequent in-person visits, especially beneficial for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in remote areas. The ease of use and accessibility of these technologies are also important considerations. Practices that embrace technology and integrate it seamlessly into their workflow will contribute positively to the overall score.

Mental health is inextricably linked to hypertension. Stress, anxiety, and depression can elevate blood pressure and negatively impact treatment adherence. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the community is a critical component of the Hypertension Score. Does the community have access to mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists? Are there programs that address stress management and provide support for patients struggling with mental health challenges? Practices that collaborate with mental health providers or offer integrated mental health services will enhance the Hypertension Score. The ability to address the holistic needs of patients, including their mental well-being, is crucial for effective hypertension management.

Identifying standout practices within 18403 requires a deeper dive into their specific offerings. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient education, providing resources on lifestyle modifications such as diet and exercise, would receive a higher score. Practices that actively engage patients in their care through shared decision-making and personalized treatment plans also contribute positively. Furthermore, practices that participate in quality improvement initiatives, such as those promoted by the American Heart Association or the American Medical Association, demonstrate a commitment to evidence-based care and continuous improvement.

The availability of primary care in Archbald, the central town within 18403, is a key determinant of the Hypertension Score. The geographic distribution of PCPs, the accessibility of public transportation, and the affordability of care are all important considerations. Areas with limited primary care access will inherently face challenges in managing hypertension effectively. This analysis must consider the geographic barriers that patients might encounter when seeking care.

The affordability of care, including insurance coverage and the availability of financial assistance programs, also impacts the Hypertension Score. Patients who struggle to afford their medications or doctor visits may be less likely to adhere to their treatment plans, leading to poorer health outcomes. The availability of programs like the Pennsylvania Medicaid program or the Pennsylvania Patient Assistance Program can mitigate this challenge.

In conclusion, evaluating the ‘Hypertension Score’ for doctors in ZIP code 18403 and primary care availability in Archbald necessitates a comprehensive assessment. It goes beyond simply counting physicians and incorporates factors such as access, practice characteristics, technological integration, mental health resources, and affordability. The score is not a static number but a dynamic reflection of the community's ability to provide effective and accessible hypertension care.

To gain a visual understanding of the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, the location of primary care physicians, and other relevant data points, explore the potential of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers powerful mapping tools that can visualize this complex data, providing valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape. Visit CartoChrome today and see how mapping can enhance your understanding of healthcare access in Archbald and beyond.