18462, Starrucca, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 18462, Starrucca, Pennsylvania is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.92 percent of the residents in 18462 has some form of health insurance. 31.77 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 80.69 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 18462 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 107 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18462. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 100 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 569 health care providers accessible to residents in 18462, Starrucca, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Starrucca, PA (ZIP Code 18462)

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality within ZIP Code 18462, specifically focusing on hypertension management, reveals a complex landscape. This analysis aims to provide a "Hypertension Score" assessment, considering factors like physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and integration of mental health resources, all crucial for effective hypertension control. The ultimate goal is to paint a clear picture of the healthcare environment in Starrucca and its surrounding areas, offering insights for both residents and healthcare providers.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental element in determining the accessibility of primary care. In the context of Starrucca, the available data suggests a potential scarcity of primary care physicians relative to the population. This could translate into longer wait times for appointments, potentially hindering timely diagnosis and treatment of hypertension. A low physician-to-patient ratio necessitates a more efficient healthcare delivery system, potentially leveraging technology and alternative care models to mitigate the impact of limited physician availability. Detailed demographic data, including age distribution and prevalence of chronic conditions within the ZIP code, is critical to accurately assess the burden on the healthcare system.

Identifying standout practices within the area is crucial for understanding best practices in hypertension management. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient education, regular monitoring, and proactive intervention strategies are likely to achieve better outcomes. These practices often utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively, allowing for streamlined data management, medication reconciliation, and improved communication between healthcare providers. Further, a practice's willingness to collaborate with specialists, such as cardiologists and nephrologists, is a significant indicator of a comprehensive approach to hypertension care. Examining patient satisfaction surveys, outcomes data (such as blood pressure control rates), and adherence to clinical guidelines can help identify these exemplary practices.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly vital, especially in rural areas like Starrucca, where geographical barriers can limit access to care. Telemedicine offers the potential to bridge the gap between patients and providers, facilitating remote consultations, medication management, and follow-up appointments. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are likely to have improved patient engagement and adherence to treatment plans. Evaluating the types of telemedicine services offered (e.g., video consultations, remote monitoring of blood pressure) and the technology infrastructure supporting these services provides a clearer picture of the potential impact on hypertension management within the community.

The integration of mental health resources is a critical, often overlooked, aspect of hypertension management. Chronic stress and mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression, can significantly impact blood pressure levels and adherence to treatment. Practices that recognize the link between mental and physical health and offer integrated mental health services, or have strong referral networks to mental health professionals, are better positioned to provide holistic care. Assessing the availability of mental health professionals within the area, the presence of mental health screening tools, and the integration of mental health services into the patient care pathway are essential components of a comprehensive hypertension score assessment.

The "Hypertension Score" for Starrucca, PA (ZIP Code 18462) is inherently multifaceted. It is not a single number, but rather a composite assessment based on the factors discussed above. The score would ideally consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of care provided by local practices (including patient outcomes and adherence to guidelines), the extent of telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. A higher score would indicate a more favorable environment for hypertension management, with greater access to care, comprehensive treatment approaches, and a focus on patient well-being. Conversely, a lower score would highlight areas for improvement, such as addressing physician shortages, enhancing telemedicine capabilities, and integrating mental health services into the care model.

The specific data needed to calculate a precise score is complex and requires access to various sources, including public health data, insurance claims data, and practice-level information. However, even without precise numerical values, the qualitative assessment presented here offers a valuable framework for understanding the healthcare landscape in Starrucca. The information can be used to identify strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement in hypertension management.

Ultimately, improving hypertension control requires a collaborative effort involving healthcare providers, patients, and the community. By understanding the challenges and opportunities within the local healthcare environment, stakeholders can work together to create a healthier community. This includes initiatives to increase physician recruitment, promote telemedicine adoption, and integrate mental health services into the care model.

For a deeper dive into the healthcare landscape of Starrucca and surrounding areas, including detailed maps of physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to care, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping tools offered by CartoChrome. Their maps provide a visually rich and data-driven platform for understanding healthcare accessibility and quality, empowering both healthcare professionals and residents to make informed decisions.