18465, Thompson, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 18465, Thompson, Pennsylvania is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.89 percent of the residents in 18465 has some form of health insurance. 43.45 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 64.68 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 18465 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 191 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18465. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 280 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 262 health care providers accessible to residents in 18465, Thompson, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 18465 & Primary Care in Thompson

This analysis delves into the landscape of hypertension management within ZIP code 18465, encompassing the town of Thompson, Pennsylvania, with a particular focus on primary care accessibility and quality. We aim to provide a nuanced "Hypertension Score" assessment, considering factors like physician-to-patient ratios, practice strengths, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial for effective hypertension control.

The cornerstone of effective hypertension management lies in consistent primary care. Within 18465, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical determinant of the "Hypertension Score." Physician-to-patient ratios are a key metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent per patient, and potentially, compromised patient follow-up. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater accessibility, allowing for more frequent check-ups, medication adjustments, and patient education – all vital for hypertension control. Data on the exact physician-to-patient ratio within 18465 requires specific local health data, but this metric is fundamental to any "Hypertension Score" calculation.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care practices significantly impacts the "Hypertension Score." Standout practices are those that demonstrate a commitment to evidence-based hypertension management. This includes consistent blood pressure monitoring, adherence to current guidelines for medication selection and dosage, and robust patient education programs. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively, allowing for easy tracking of patient data and the generation of reminders for appointments and medication refills, are also highly valued. Practices that actively engage patients in their care, fostering a collaborative approach to managing their condition, are also likely to achieve better outcomes. Identifying these standout practices requires a detailed review of patient satisfaction surveys, clinical outcomes data (if available), and practice profiles.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical element in assessing the "Hypertension Score." Telemedicine offers several advantages in hypertension management. It can improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas. Remote blood pressure monitoring, using devices that transmit readings directly to the physician, allows for more frequent and convenient monitoring, enabling quicker identification of changes and adjustments to treatment. Telemedicine also facilitates virtual consultations, providing patients with convenient access to their physicians for medication refills, lifestyle counseling, and general health advice. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring options, will receive a higher score.

The link between mental health and hypertension is well-established. Chronic stress and anxiety can contribute to elevated blood pressure, and managing these conditions is often crucial for successful hypertension control. The availability of mental health resources within the community is therefore a significant factor in the "Hypertension Score." This includes access to therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups. Practices that actively screen patients for mental health issues and offer integrated mental health services or referral pathways will be viewed favorably. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health professionals is essential for providing comprehensive care.

The town of Thompson, within ZIP code 18465, presents a unique context. Its rural setting may present challenges to healthcare access, particularly in terms of transportation and the availability of specialized services. The "Hypertension Score" for Thompson must therefore consider these factors. The presence of community resources, such as senior centers and community health programs, can also play a vital role in supporting hypertension management. These resources can offer educational programs, support groups, and access to healthy food options, all of which contribute to improved patient outcomes.

Furthermore, the "Hypertension Score" should consider the demographics of the population within 18465. Factors such as age, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status can influence the prevalence of hypertension and the challenges patients face in managing their condition. Practices that are culturally sensitive and provide services tailored to the specific needs of their patient population will be better positioned to achieve positive outcomes. This might include offering multilingual services, providing culturally appropriate educational materials, and addressing social determinants of health, such as food insecurity and housing instability.

In conclusion, the "Hypertension Score" for doctors in ZIP code 18465 and primary care availability in Thompson is a multi-faceted assessment. It requires a comprehensive evaluation of physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of primary care practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. It must also consider the specific context of the community, including its rural setting, demographics, and the presence of supporting resources. A high "Hypertension Score" indicates a healthcare environment that is well-equipped to provide effective hypertension management, leading to better patient outcomes and improved community health.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in 18465, including physician locations, access to care, and demographic data, explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. These maps can help you gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment and identify areas for improvement.