18431, Honesdale, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 18431, Honesdale, Pennsylvania is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.37 percent of the residents in 18431 has some form of health insurance. 46.45 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.42 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 18431 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,389 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18431. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,004 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 998 health care providers accessible to residents in 18431, Honesdale, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 18431 & Primary Care Availability in Honesdale

Analyzing the landscape of hypertension management within ZIP Code 18431 (Honesdale, Pennsylvania) requires a multi-faceted approach. We must examine the available medical resources, focusing specifically on primary care physicians, their capacity to manage hypertension, and the supporting infrastructure that enhances patient care. This analysis will culminate in a 'Hypertension Score' assessment, considering various factors to provide a comprehensive overview.

The foundation of effective hypertension management lies in accessible primary care. Honesdale, as a rural community, faces unique challenges in this regard. Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can strain resources, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced time spent with each patient. Data from reliable sources, such as the Pennsylvania Department of Health and publicly available physician directories, should be consulted to determine the current physician-to-patient ratio within the ZIP Code. This ratio will significantly influence the 'Hypertension Score.'

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality and breadth of services offered by primary care practices are paramount. Practices that actively integrate hypertension management protocols, such as regular blood pressure screenings, medication management, and patient education, will score higher. Assessing the presence of certified hypertension specialists within the primary care network is also crucial. These specialists possess advanced training and expertise in managing complex cases, improving patient outcomes.

Standout practices within the community deserve special recognition. Identifying practices that demonstrate exceptional commitment to hypertension management, perhaps through innovative programs or superior patient outcomes, is vital. This might involve practices that have implemented robust electronic health record (EHR) systems to track patient progress, automated reminders for medication refills, or offer personalized dietary and exercise counseling. Publicly available patient reviews and testimonials can offer valuable insights into patient satisfaction and the quality of care provided.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor influencing the 'Hypertension Score.' Telemedicine offers a powerful tool for expanding access to care, particularly in rural areas. Practices that utilize telemedicine for remote blood pressure monitoring, virtual consultations, and medication management can significantly improve patient adherence and outcomes. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services within the primary care network is essential. This includes evaluating the types of telemedicine platforms used, the services offered, and the ease of access for patients.

The link between mental health and hypertension is well-established. Chronic stress and anxiety can contribute to elevated blood pressure, making it crucial to address mental health needs alongside physical health. The availability of mental health resources within the community directly impacts the 'Hypertension Score.' This includes assessing the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed therapists who can provide counseling and medication management for patients struggling with stress, anxiety, or depression. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health professionals is essential for holistic patient care.

Furthermore, the availability of ancillary services can enhance the 'Hypertension Score.' This includes access to registered dietitians who can provide nutritional counseling, certified diabetes educators who can help manage related conditions, and cardiac rehabilitation programs for patients with cardiovascular complications. The presence of these supporting services demonstrates a commitment to comprehensive patient care.

Patient education plays a pivotal role in hypertension management. Practices that provide patients with clear, concise information about their condition, medications, and lifestyle modifications will score higher. This might involve offering educational materials, group classes, or individual counseling sessions. Assessing the availability and quality of patient education resources is a critical component of the 'Hypertension Score.'

The 'Hypertension Score' will be a composite metric, reflecting the weighted average of the factors discussed above. The physician-to-patient ratio will carry a significant weight, reflecting the fundamental importance of access to care. The presence of hypertension specialists, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and ancillary services will also contribute substantially to the score. The quality of patient education and the presence of standout practices will further refine the assessment.

Data collection and analysis will be meticulous, drawing upon publicly available information, physician directories, and potentially, patient surveys. The score will be presented as a numerical value, along with a descriptive narrative explaining the strengths and weaknesses of hypertension management within ZIP Code 18431.

Ultimately, the 'Hypertension Score' aims to provide a clear and actionable assessment of the healthcare landscape. It will highlight areas where resources are strong and identify opportunities for improvement. This information can be used by healthcare providers, community leaders, and patients to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

To visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, practice locations, and other relevant data points, enhancing the analysis and facilitating informed decision-making. Explore the power of CartoChrome maps to unlock a more comprehensive view of the healthcare landscape in Honesdale and beyond.