18413, Clifford, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 18413, Clifford, Pennsylvania is 93 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 18413 has some form of health insurance. 0.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 100.00 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 18413 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 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18413. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 0 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,558 health care providers accessible to residents in 18413, Clifford, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Clifford, PA (ZIP Code 18413)

Analyzing the landscape of hypertension management within Clifford, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18413) requires a multi-faceted approach, considering not only the availability of primary care physicians but also the broader ecosystem of healthcare resources. This analysis provides a "Hypertension Score" assessment, evaluating key factors impacting a patient's ability to effectively manage their condition.

The foundation of effective hypertension management rests on accessible primary care. ZIP code 18413, being a relatively rural area, likely faces challenges common to such locations. Assessing physician-to-patient ratios is critical. National averages provide a benchmark, but local realities can differ significantly. A low physician-to-patient ratio, meaning fewer doctors serving a larger population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially, delayed diagnoses or inadequate follow-up care. This negatively impacts the Hypertension Score.

The availability of primary care in Clifford itself is a crucial factor. Are there readily accessible primary care practices within the town or its immediate vicinity? Are these practices accepting new patients? The presence of multiple practices, especially those with diverse specialties or affiliations, generally contributes positively to the Hypertension Score. Single-practice towns, or those reliant on practices located some distance away, may present access challenges, particularly for elderly or mobility-impaired individuals.

Beyond the raw number of physicians, the quality of care provided by existing practices is paramount. Identifying "standout practices" involves evaluating factors such as patient reviews, the adoption of evidence-based hypertension management protocols, and the integration of technology. Practices employing electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate data tracking and medication management are generally more effective. The presence of certified diabetes educators or registered dietitians within a practice can be a significant asset, as these professionals play a vital role in lifestyle modifications, a cornerstone of hypertension control. Practices actively participating in quality improvement initiatives, such as those focused on blood pressure control, also receive a higher score.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical element. Telemedicine offers a powerful tool to overcome geographical barriers, especially in rural settings. Practices offering virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and medication refills via telehealth platforms can significantly improve patient access to care and enhance adherence to treatment plans. The availability of telemedicine services directly impacts the Hypertension Score, particularly for patients with transportation limitations or those residing far from medical facilities.

Mental health resources also play a crucial role in hypertension management. Stress and anxiety are known contributors to elevated blood pressure. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, within the community or readily accessible through referrals is essential. Practices that integrate mental health screening and referral processes into their hypertension management protocols demonstrate a more holistic approach, positively influencing the Hypertension Score. Coordination between primary care physicians and mental health providers is a key indicator of effective patient care.

Furthermore, the availability of community resources, such as support groups for individuals with hypertension, educational programs on healthy eating and exercise, and access to affordable medications, contributes significantly to a higher Hypertension Score. These resources empower patients to take an active role in managing their condition. Public health initiatives promoting awareness of hypertension, early detection, and lifestyle modifications also play a vital role.

The overall assessment of the Hypertension Score for ZIP code 18413 considers these factors holistically. A high score reflects a robust healthcare environment with readily accessible primary care, high-quality practices, telemedicine adoption, strong mental health support, and ample community resources. Conversely, a low score indicates potential challenges in accessing care, limited resources, and a need for improvement.

The analysis must also consider the demographics of the population. The prevalence of hypertension increases with age, so understanding the age distribution within the ZIP code is essential. Furthermore, socioeconomic factors, such as income levels and access to health insurance, can significantly impact a patient's ability to access care and adhere to treatment plans. These factors are incorporated into the final score, as they directly influence the challenges patients face.

In conclusion, the Hypertension Score for Clifford, PA (ZIP code 18413) is a complex metric reflecting the interplay of various factors. It provides a valuable assessment of the healthcare landscape, highlighting strengths and weaknesses in hypertension management. Analyzing the physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the accessibility of community support are all critical to determining the final score.

This detailed analysis, offering a comprehensive view of the healthcare ecosystem within Clifford, PA, and its impact on hypertension management, is just the beginning. To gain a deeper understanding of the spatial distribution of healthcare resources, physician locations, and patient demographics, and to visualize the data in an interactive and insightful manner, consider exploring the power of CartoChrome maps. They offer the ability to analyze the data, identify patterns, and make informed decisions to improve the health outcomes for the community.