18414, Dalton, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 18414, Dalton, Pennsylvania is 92 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.21 percent of the residents in 18414 has some form of health insurance. 33.53 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 83.20 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 18414 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,149 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18414. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,224 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,619 health care providers accessible to residents in 18414, Dalton, Pennsylvania.

**Hypertension Score Analysis: Dalton, PA (ZIP Code 18414)**

The assessment of hypertension management within Dalton, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18414) requires a multi-faceted approach, considering factors beyond just the presence of medical professionals. This analysis focuses on primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the identification of standout practices. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare landscape's capacity to effectively address hypertension, a critical public health concern.

The foundation of effective hypertension management lies in accessible primary care. In Dalton, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a crucial metric. Determining the exact number of practicing PCPs within the ZIP code is the first step. This data point, however, needs context. The geographic distribution of these physicians, their acceptance of new patients, and their insurance affiliations all influence accessibility. A high concentration of PCPs in a specific area of Dalton might benefit residents there, while those in more remote sections might face greater challenges.

Physician-to-patient ratios offer another critical perspective. This ratio, calculated by dividing the population of Dalton by the number of practicing PCPs, provides a general indication of the potential patient load each physician carries. A higher ratio suggests a greater burden on each physician, potentially impacting appointment availability, time spent with each patient, and overall quality of care. It is crucial to note that this is a broad indicator and does not account for factors such as physician specialization, patient demographics, or the severity of illness within the population.

Identifying standout practices within Dalton is essential. These practices are those demonstrating a commitment to evidence-based hypertension management. This involves looking for practices that consistently adhere to clinical guidelines, utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively, and actively engage patients in their care. Key indicators include the use of standardized protocols for blood pressure measurement, the implementation of medication management strategies, and the provision of patient education materials. Furthermore, practices that proactively monitor patient outcomes, such as blood pressure control rates, demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement.

Telemedicine adoption represents a significant factor in modern healthcare. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and medication management support can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in geographically isolated areas. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption among PCPs in Dalton involves evaluating their use of virtual platforms for appointments, their utilization of remote monitoring devices, and their ability to provide patients with access to online educational resources. Practices embracing telemedicine can potentially improve patient outcomes and enhance the overall quality of care.

The integration of mental health resources is increasingly recognized as a crucial component of comprehensive hypertension management. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure control. Therefore, practices that integrate mental health services into their care models are better positioned to address the holistic needs of their patients. This involves assessing whether PCPs in Dalton have established referral pathways to mental health professionals, offer on-site mental health services, or collaborate with mental health providers to provide integrated care.

A thorough analysis of hypertension management in Dalton must also consider the availability of ancillary services. Access to registered dietitians, certified diabetes educators, and other healthcare professionals who can provide specialized support is critical for effective hypertension control. The presence of these resources within the community or through referral networks can significantly enhance the ability of PCPs to provide comprehensive care.

The analysis should also consider the impact of socioeconomic factors on hypertension management. Poverty, lack of access to healthy food options, and limited health literacy can all pose significant challenges to patients seeking to manage their blood pressure. Understanding the prevalence of these factors within Dalton is crucial for developing targeted interventions and ensuring equitable access to care.

The evaluation of data on physician-to-patient ratios needs to be carefully considered. While a lower ratio is generally preferable, it does not automatically guarantee superior care. Factors such as physician experience, specialization, and practice efficiency also play a significant role. Furthermore, the demographics of the patient population, including age, ethnicity, and pre-existing health conditions, can influence the complexity of care required.

The adoption of EHRs is another important factor to assess. EHRs can improve care coordination, facilitate data sharing, and enhance the ability of physicians to monitor patient outcomes. Practices that utilize EHRs effectively can track blood pressure readings, medication adherence, and other key metrics, enabling them to provide more personalized and proactive care.

The analysis should also consider the availability of patient education materials. Providing patients with clear, concise, and culturally appropriate information about hypertension, its management, and lifestyle modifications is essential for promoting self-management and improving patient outcomes. Practices that offer educational materials in multiple languages and formats are better equipped to serve a diverse patient population.

Assessing the availability of community resources is also vital. The presence of support groups, exercise programs, and other community-based initiatives can provide patients with additional support and resources to manage their hypertension. Practices that actively partner with community organizations can enhance their ability to provide comprehensive care.

In conclusion, assessing hypertension management in Dalton requires a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare landscape. This includes evaluating primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the identification of standout practices. By considering these factors, a more accurate assessment of the community's capacity to effectively address hypertension can be achieved.

For a more detailed, interactive map of healthcare resources in Dalton, Pennsylvania, including physician locations, practice details, and community resources, explore the power of CartoChrome maps.