18455, Preston Park, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 18455, Preston Park, Pennsylvania is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 18455 has some form of health insurance. 100.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.02 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 18455 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 16 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18455. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 90 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 95 health care providers accessible to residents in 18455, Preston Park, Pennsylvania.

The task is to analyze the hypertensive care landscape within ZIP code 18455, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care, particularly concerning hypertension management. This analysis will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, highlight exemplary practices, examine telemedicine adoption, and assess the integration of mental health resources, all crucial elements in effective hypertension control. The area of focus will be Preston Park, PA, within the 18455 ZIP code.

Preston Park, a rural community in northeastern Pennsylvania, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. The geographic isolation and demographic profile of the area necessitate a nuanced approach to evaluating hypertension care. The prevalence of hypertension, often linked to lifestyle factors and aging populations, requires accessible and comprehensive primary care services. Understanding the availability and quality of these services is paramount to public health.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator of access to care. In rural areas, the shortage of physicians is a well-documented problem. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) within the 18455 ZIP code, specifically in and around Preston Park, must be assessed. This involves identifying the number of practicing PCPs and the estimated patient population they serve. A low physician-to-patient ratio suggests potential difficulties in securing timely appointments, leading to delayed diagnosis and treatment of hypertension. Conversely, a higher ratio, while potentially indicating better access, does not guarantee quality of care. The distribution of PCPs across the area also plays a role. Are they clustered in one location, or are they dispersed, allowing for easier access for residents in Preston Park and surrounding areas?

Standout practices within the 18455 ZIP code are those that demonstrate a commitment to evidence-based hypertension management. This includes the consistent use of guidelines, such as those provided by the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology, in diagnosis and treatment. These practices should actively monitor patients’ blood pressure, implement lifestyle interventions (dietary recommendations, exercise guidance), and prescribe appropriate medications. Furthermore, these practices should employ strategies to improve patient adherence to treatment plans. This might involve patient education, regular follow-up appointments, and the use of medication reminders. Identifying these high-performing practices is vital to understand the best practices within the community.

Telemedicine adoption has the potential to significantly improve hypertension care in rural areas like Preston Park. Telemedicine allows patients to access healthcare services remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving convenience. This is especially beneficial for patients with mobility limitations or those living far from a physician's office. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption involves determining which practices offer virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and online patient portals. The availability of reliable internet access in the area is also a key factor, as it is essential for successful telemedicine implementation. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their hypertension management programs should be highlighted as models for others to emulate.

The integration of mental health resources is increasingly recognized as a crucial component of comprehensive hypertension care. Chronic stress and mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression, can contribute to elevated blood pressure and hinder adherence to treatment plans. Practices that offer or have readily accessible mental health services, either in-house or through referral networks, are better equipped to provide holistic care. This includes access to therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups. Evaluating the availability of these resources within the 18455 ZIP code is essential to understand the overall quality of care.

Analyzing the availability of mental health resources involves examining the presence of mental health professionals in the area, the referral pathways between primary care practices and mental health providers, and the availability of mental health support groups or programs. Practices that proactively address the mental health needs of their hypertensive patients are likely to achieve better outcomes.

The overall quality of hypertension care in the 18455 ZIP code is a complex interplay of various factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of evidence-based practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources all contribute to the effectiveness of care. A comprehensive assessment should consider all these elements to provide a complete picture of the current state of hypertension management in Preston Park and the surrounding areas.

The analysis would ideally include a detailed examination of the practices, including their patient demographics, the types of services they offer, and their performance metrics. This could involve data on blood pressure control rates, medication adherence, and patient satisfaction. Furthermore, it would be beneficial to identify any barriers to care, such as transportation challenges, insurance coverage issues, and language barriers.

By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the existing healthcare infrastructure, it is possible to identify areas for improvement. This could include expanding the number of PCPs, promoting the adoption of telemedicine, increasing access to mental health services, and implementing patient education programs. The goal is to create a healthcare system that effectively addresses the needs of hypertensive patients in Preston Park and the surrounding areas, improving their health outcomes and quality of life.

The analysis should also consider the potential impact of community-based interventions. This could involve partnering with local organizations to promote healthy lifestyles, providing education on hypertension prevention and management, and increasing access to healthy foods. A collaborative approach, involving healthcare providers, community leaders, and residents, is essential to creating a sustainable and effective healthcare system.

To visualize the healthcare landscape of Preston Park and the surrounding areas, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides powerful mapping and data visualization tools that can help you to identify areas with limited access to care, visualize physician distribution, and identify the locations of practices that offer specific services, such as telemedicine or mental health support. Use CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment in the 18455 ZIP code and make informed decisions about improving hypertension care in your community.