18503, Scranton, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 18503, Scranton, Pennsylvania is 91 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 72.52 percent of the residents in 18503 has some form of health insurance. 26.67 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 51.14 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 18503 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 61 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18503. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 211 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,026 health care providers accessible to residents in 18503, Scranton, Pennsylvania.

**Hypertension Score Analysis: Scranton, PA (ZIP Code 18503)**

The city of Scranton, Pennsylvania, nestled within the confines of ZIP code 18503, presents a unique landscape for healthcare delivery, particularly concerning the management of hypertension. This analysis delves into the availability of primary care physicians, the quality of care provided, and the integration of innovative approaches like telemedicine, all within the context of managing a condition as prevalent as high blood pressure. The goal is to offer a nuanced "Hypertension Score" assessment, providing insights for both patients seeking care and healthcare providers aiming to improve their services.

The foundation of effective hypertension management lies in accessible and competent primary care. Scranton, like many urban areas, faces the challenge of physician distribution. While precise physician-to-patient ratios fluctuate, the availability of primary care physicians in 18503 is a crucial factor. A higher ratio, indicating more patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially less individualized care. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater access, allowing for more frequent check-ups, proactive monitoring, and tailored treatment plans. The overall score will be influenced by this critical metric.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This includes the expertise of the physicians, the comprehensiveness of their services, and their commitment to patient education. The "Hypertension Score" will assess these aspects by evaluating the practices’ adherence to national guidelines for hypertension management. This includes regular blood pressure screenings, lifestyle counseling (diet, exercise, smoking cessation), and the appropriate prescription and monitoring of antihypertensive medications. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, such as those recognized by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), will be viewed favorably.

Within Scranton, several primary care practices stand out in their approach to hypertension management. These practices have demonstrated a commitment to patient-centered care, utilizing electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient progress and proactively manage chronic conditions. They may also employ dedicated nurses or medical assistants to provide patient education and support. These practices often foster a strong physician-patient relationship, which is crucial for long-term adherence to treatment plans. They are likely to achieve better blood pressure control rates and fewer complications associated with hypertension.

The adoption of telemedicine is another key factor in the "Hypertension Score" calculation. Telemedicine offers a valuable tool for remote monitoring, medication management, and patient education, particularly for individuals with chronic conditions like hypertension. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can offer more convenient follow-up appointments, improve medication adherence, and provide timely interventions. This is especially relevant in a region where transportation challenges might limit access to traditional in-person appointments. The score will reflect the extent to which practices in 18503 have integrated telemedicine into their workflows.

The interplay between physical and mental health is increasingly recognized. Hypertension is often linked to stress, anxiety, and depression. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through readily accessible referrals is a significant component of the "Hypertension Score." Practices that offer on-site mental health services or have established strong referral networks with mental health professionals will be rated more favorably. This integrated approach acknowledges the holistic nature of patient well-being and contributes to improved outcomes.

The "Hypertension Score" considers the availability of resources beyond the physician's office. This includes access to pharmacies, specialized clinics, and community-based programs that support hypertension management. The presence of pharmacies that offer medication adherence programs, for example, can significantly impact patient outcomes. Similarly, access to specialized clinics for cardiology or nephrology can provide more in-depth evaluation and treatment when needed. The score will reflect the availability of these complementary resources.

Furthermore, the "Hypertension Score" will incorporate data on patient outcomes, such as blood pressure control rates and the incidence of hypertension-related complications. This data is often collected through quality reporting programs and public health initiatives. Practices that demonstrate better outcomes will receive higher scores. This data-driven approach provides a tangible measure of the effectiveness of care.

The assessment of primary care availability in Scranton will also consider the demographic characteristics of the population. The prevalence of hypertension can vary across different age groups, ethnicities, and socioeconomic strata. The "Hypertension Score" will account for these factors, recognizing that practices serving populations with higher risk profiles may face greater challenges in managing hypertension.

The overall "Hypertension Score" for primary care in ZIP code 18503 will be a composite measure, weighing the factors discussed above. This score will serve as a valuable tool for patients seeking care, providing them with information to make informed decisions. It will also offer valuable feedback to healthcare providers, helping them identify areas for improvement and optimize their services. The goal is to promote better hypertension management and improve the overall health of the Scranton community.

The "Hypertension Score" will be continuously updated to reflect changes in healthcare delivery and patient outcomes. This ongoing process ensures that the score remains a relevant and reliable resource for both patients and providers. The assessment will be transparent, with the methodology and data sources clearly documented. This transparency builds trust and fosters collaboration among stakeholders.

The ultimate aim of this analysis is to empower patients and support healthcare providers in their shared mission of improving hypertension management. By highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of the current system, we can work towards a future where hypertension is effectively controlled, and the residents of Scranton can enjoy healthier lives.

For a visual representation of primary care locations, resource availability, and patient demographics within ZIP code 18503, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome. Their platform can provide a comprehensive, data-driven perspective on the healthcare landscape in Scranton.