18518, Old Forge, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 18518, Old Forge, Pennsylvania is 90 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.82 percent of the residents in 18518 has some form of health insurance. 39.59 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.53 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 18518 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,765 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18518. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,806 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,982 health care providers accessible to residents in 18518, Old Forge, Pennsylvania.

The analysis focuses on assessing the hypertension management landscape for primary care physicians within ZIP code 18518, encompassing Old Forge, Pennsylvania, and evaluating the availability of primary care resources in the same area. This evaluation will incorporate factors influencing hypertension control, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of exemplary practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial for comprehensive patient care.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Old Forge, ZIP code 18518, is a fundamental indicator of access to care. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can potentially lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and ultimately, less effective hypertension management. Determining this ratio requires accessing publicly available data, such as the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) data, or utilizing specialized healthcare databases. This initial step sets the stage for understanding the overall capacity of the primary care system to address the needs of the population.

Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code is critical. These practices often demonstrate superior hypertension management outcomes, possibly through employing evidence-based guidelines, utilizing innovative technologies, or fostering strong patient-physician relationships. Researching patient reviews, examining publicly available quality metrics (if any), and consulting with local healthcare organizations can help pinpoint these exemplary practices. Examining the specific approaches these practices employ, such as structured follow-up programs, patient education initiatives, and the use of medication management protocols, can provide valuable insights into best practices for hypertension control.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly vital in healthcare, especially in rural areas like Old Forge. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, providing convenient access to care, particularly for patients with chronic conditions like hypertension. The extent of telemedicine adoption among primary care physicians in the area needs to be assessed. This involves determining the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and the use of digital health tools. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can potentially offer more frequent check-ins, facilitate medication adjustments, and provide educational resources, all of which can contribute to better hypertension control.

The integration of mental health resources is another crucial factor. Hypertension is often linked to stress, anxiety, and depression. Therefore, the availability of mental health services, either within primary care practices or through referrals, is essential for comprehensive patient care. Assessing the integration of mental health services involves determining the presence of on-site therapists or counselors, the existence of referral pathways to mental health specialists, and the availability of resources for managing stress and emotional well-being. This integrated approach can address the holistic needs of patients and improve their ability to manage their hypertension effectively.

The assessment of hypertension management within the ZIP code should also consider the availability of ancillary services. This includes access to diagnostic testing, such as ambulatory blood pressure monitoring, and access to specialized care, such as cardiology services. Efficient access to these services can facilitate timely diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of hypertension. The proximity of these services, the efficiency of referral processes, and the coordination of care between primary care physicians and specialists are all important factors to consider.

Evaluating the use of patient education materials and programs is another important aspect. Effective patient education empowers individuals to actively participate in their own care. This includes providing patients with information about lifestyle modifications, medication adherence, and the importance of regular blood pressure monitoring. Primary care practices that prioritize patient education often achieve better outcomes in hypertension control.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the socioeconomic factors that can impact hypertension management. These factors include income levels, access to healthy food options, and the availability of safe environments for physical activity. Understanding these factors can help identify potential barriers to care and inform the development of targeted interventions.

The evaluation of hypertension management in Old Forge, ZIP code 18518, requires a multifaceted approach. It involves assessing physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, evaluating telemedicine adoption, examining mental health resources, and considering the availability of ancillary services, patient education programs, and socioeconomic factors. This comprehensive assessment provides a detailed picture of the resources available and the challenges faced in managing hypertension within the community.

By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the current healthcare landscape, healthcare providers, policymakers, and community organizations can work together to improve hypertension management in Old Forge. This may involve increasing access to primary care, promoting the adoption of best practices, expanding telemedicine capabilities, integrating mental health services, and addressing socioeconomic disparities.

The ultimate goal is to create a healthcare system that effectively supports patients in managing their hypertension, leading to improved health outcomes and a higher quality of life. This requires a continuous cycle of assessment, improvement, and innovation, ensuring that the community has access to the resources and support they need to thrive.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Old Forge, including the location of primary care physicians, the availability of services, and the demographics of the population, explore the power of data visualization with CartoChrome maps. Gain insights into the spatial distribution of resources and identify areas where improvements are needed.