18430, Herrick Center, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 18430, Herrick Center, Pennsylvania is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 18430 has some form of health insurance. 42.67 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 18430 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18430. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 25 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 971 health care providers accessible to residents in 18430, Herrick Center, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: 18430 & Herrick Center Primary Care

This analysis delves into the landscape of hypertension management within ZIP Code 18430, focusing specifically on the availability and quality of primary care services in relation to hypertension control. We will evaluate the existing infrastructure, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components of a comprehensive approach to hypertension management. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the resources available to residents and identify potential areas for improvement.

Herrick Center, located within ZIP Code 18430, serves as a central point for accessing primary care services. The availability of quality primary care is paramount in the effective management of hypertension. Regular check-ups, medication management, lifestyle counseling, and early intervention are all vital in preventing and controlling this widespread condition. The ability of residents to easily access these services directly impacts their health outcomes.

One critical aspect of evaluating primary care availability is the physician-to-patient ratio. This metric provides a rough estimate of the workload carried by each physician and can indicate potential challenges in accessing timely appointments and receiving adequate attention. A higher ratio, meaning more patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times, reduced appointment durations, and potentially, a less personalized approach to care. Researching the exact physician-to-patient ratios within 18430 is crucial for a comprehensive assessment. Publicly available data from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or state medical boards can provide this information.

Identifying standout practices is also essential. These are the clinics and individual practitioners demonstrating excellence in hypertension management. Factors to consider include the implementation of evidence-based guidelines, patient education programs, robust medication management protocols, and a commitment to patient-centered care. Practices that actively monitor patient blood pressure, provide regular follow-up appointments, and offer support for lifestyle modifications, such as diet and exercise, are likely to achieve superior outcomes. Patient reviews and testimonials, if available, can offer valuable insights into the patient experience and the quality of care provided.

The adoption of telemedicine represents another crucial area for evaluation. Telemedicine, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, can significantly enhance access to care, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas. Practices that embrace telemedicine can offer more frequent check-ins, provide timely medication adjustments, and facilitate patient education, all of which contribute to improved hypertension control. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services within 18430, including the types of services offered and the ease of access, is vital.

Mental health is inextricably linked to hypertension management. Stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure levels and adherence to treatment plans. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through referrals is a critical factor. Practices that screen for mental health conditions, offer counseling services, or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals are better equipped to provide holistic care. Evaluating the integration of mental health services within primary care practices in 18430 is an essential component of this analysis.

Furthermore, the infrastructure supporting hypertension management should be assessed. This includes the availability of diagnostic tools, such as blood pressure monitors and ambulatory blood pressure monitoring devices, within primary care practices. The presence of trained staff, such as nurses and medical assistants, who can assist with patient education and medication management, is also important. The availability of resources, such as patient education materials and support groups, can empower patients to actively participate in their own care.

The quality of care within 18430 is also influenced by the availability of specialists. While primary care physicians are at the forefront of hypertension management, access to specialists, such as cardiologists and nephrologists, is crucial for patients with complex cases or those who are not responding to initial treatments. Evaluating the proximity of specialists, the ease of referral processes, and the coordination of care between primary care physicians and specialists is essential.

The role of the local hospital system is also important. The hospital can provide resources for hypertension management, such as educational programs and support groups. The hospital can also offer access to specialists and advanced diagnostic tools. The hospital's commitment to community health initiatives, including hypertension awareness campaigns and screenings, can also improve outcomes.

The economic factors within the region also play a role. The affordability of healthcare, including insurance coverage and medication costs, can significantly impact access to care and adherence to treatment plans. The availability of financial assistance programs and the acceptance of various insurance plans by primary care practices should be considered.

In conclusion, assessing the hypertension management landscape within ZIP Code 18430, particularly in relation to primary care availability in Herrick Center, requires a multifaceted approach. Analyzing physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, evaluating telemedicine adoption, and assessing the availability of mental health resources are all crucial components. A comprehensive understanding of the existing infrastructure, the availability of specialists, and the economic factors influencing access to care is also essential. This holistic approach will reveal the strengths and weaknesses of the current system and provide a roadmap for improving hypertension management within the community.

For a visual representation of the primary care landscape in 18430, including physician locations, clinic locations, and access to resources, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide valuable insights into the geographic distribution of healthcare resources and help identify areas with limited access to care.