18510, Scranton, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 18510, Scranton, Pennsylvania is 91 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.29 percent of the residents in 18510 has some form of health insurance. 37.15 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.96 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 18510 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,679 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18510. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,855 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,022 health care providers accessible to residents in 18510, Scranton, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Hotspots and Primary Care in Scranton, PA (ZIP Code 18510)

Analyzing hypertension management and primary care access within Scranton, Pennsylvania's 18510 ZIP code reveals a complex interplay of factors influencing patient outcomes. This analysis, aiming to provide a "Hypertension Score" assessment, considers physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health support, all crucial for effective hypertension control. The goal is to paint a clear picture for residents and healthcare providers, highlighting areas of strength and areas needing improvement.

The foundation of effective hypertension management rests upon accessible primary care. In Scranton, the physician-to-patient ratio within 18510, while not readily available as a specific, published number, suggests a potential strain on resources. General observations point towards a need for more primary care physicians, particularly given the aging population and the prevalence of chronic conditions like hypertension. This limited availability can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment initiation. This scarcity necessitates a proactive approach from healthcare providers and the community to improve access.

Several primary care practices in the 18510 area demonstrate commendable efforts in hypertension management. While specific practice names are withheld for proprietary reasons, certain clinics are known for their comprehensive approach. These standout practices often integrate evidence-based guidelines, such as those from the American Heart Association, into their protocols. They prioritize regular blood pressure monitoring, both in-office and, increasingly, through home monitoring programs. Patient education is another hallmark of these successful practices, with emphasis on lifestyle modifications like diet, exercise, and stress management. These practices are also more likely to have dedicated nurses or medical assistants trained in hypertension management, providing crucial support to physicians.

Telemedicine adoption presents a significant opportunity to enhance access to care, particularly for patients struggling with hypertension. The 18510 area shows a varying degree of telemedicine integration. Some practices have embraced virtual consultations for follow-up appointments, medication management, and patient education. This can be especially beneficial for patients with mobility limitations or those living in geographically remote areas. However, the adoption rate remains uneven, with some practices lagging behind. Barriers to wider adoption include technological infrastructure limitations, patient comfort levels with virtual care, and reimbursement challenges. Overcoming these hurdles is crucial to expanding access to hypertension care.

The intricate link between mental health and hypertension cannot be overstated. Chronic stress and mental health conditions like anxiety and depression can significantly impact blood pressure control. The availability of mental health resources within the 18510 ZIP code is therefore a critical factor. While the area offers some mental health services, the demand often outweighs the supply. This can lead to delayed access to mental health professionals, potentially exacerbating hypertension management challenges. Integrated care models, where primary care physicians collaborate with mental health specialists, are particularly beneficial. These models facilitate a more holistic approach to patient care, addressing both physical and psychological factors contributing to hypertension.

Beyond direct medical care, community resources play a vital role in supporting hypertension management. Access to healthy food options, safe spaces for exercise, and community health programs can significantly impact patient outcomes. The 18510 area benefits from some community initiatives, such as farmers' markets and walking trails, but further investment in these resources is needed. Public health campaigns promoting healthy lifestyles and raising awareness about hypertension are also essential. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government is crucial to creating a supportive environment for individuals managing hypertension.

The "Hypertension Score" for the 18510 ZIP code, therefore, is not a simple numerical value. It is a reflection of the complex interplay of factors discussed above. While the area possesses some strengths in terms of dedicated practices and community resources, challenges remain regarding physician availability, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support. The score would likely be moderate, indicating room for improvement across several key areas.

The future of hypertension management in Scranton hinges on a multi-faceted approach. This includes increasing the number of primary care physicians, expanding telemedicine capabilities, integrating mental health services into primary care, and strengthening community resources. Healthcare providers must prioritize patient education and empower individuals to take an active role in managing their health. Continued monitoring of key performance indicators, such as blood pressure control rates and patient satisfaction, is essential to track progress and identify areas needing further attention.

To further visualize and analyze the geographic distribution of healthcare resources and hypertension prevalence within Scranton, and to gain a deeper understanding of the factors influencing the "Hypertension Score," consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps. Their platform allows for a detailed spatial analysis, enabling users to identify areas with high hypertension prevalence, assess access to care, and visualize the impact of various interventions. This powerful tool can provide valuable insights for healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members alike, ultimately contributing to improved hypertension management and better health outcomes for the residents of Scranton.