18617, Glen Lyon, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 18617, Glen Lyon, Pennsylvania is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.53 percent of the residents in 18617 has some form of health insurance. 45.93 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.55 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 18617 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 206 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18617. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 229 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,926 health care providers accessible to residents in 18617, Glen Lyon, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Glen Lyon, PA (ZIP Code 18617)

Glen Lyon, Pennsylvania, a small community nestled in the heart of Luzerne County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to managing hypertension. This analysis delves into the landscape of primary care physicians (PCPs) within the 18617 ZIP code, evaluating their capacity to address hypertension, considering factors like physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telehealth, and the availability of integrated mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide a nuanced 'Hypertension Score' assessment, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and potential areas for improvement in local healthcare delivery.

The foundation of effective hypertension management lies in accessible and readily available primary care. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A high ratio, indicating fewer doctors serving a larger population, can strain resources and limit the time each patient receives, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses and suboptimal treatment. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests a greater availability of care, allowing for more frequent check-ups, proactive monitoring, and personalized management strategies. The precise physician-to-patient ratio within the 18617 ZIP code requires meticulous data analysis, considering both the number of practicing PCPs and the total population served. This data should be sourced from reliable databases, such as the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the American Medical Association, to ensure accuracy.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is crucial. Several practices within the 18617 area may stand out in their approach to hypertension management. These 'standout practices' would likely demonstrate several key characteristics. They might employ a multidisciplinary team, including nurses, dietitians, and pharmacists, to provide comprehensive patient care. They could actively participate in patient education programs, empowering individuals to understand their condition and make informed lifestyle choices. These practices could also implement robust systems for tracking patient progress, ensuring timely interventions and adjustments to treatment plans. Identifying these standout practices requires a deep dive into practice profiles, patient reviews, and potentially, direct observation or interviews.

Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, offers a powerful tool in managing chronic conditions like hypertension. Its adoption within the 18617 area is a critical factor in our 'Hypertension Score' assessment. Telemedicine can facilitate remote blood pressure monitoring, virtual consultations, and medication management, especially beneficial for patients with mobility issues or those living in geographically isolated areas. The extent to which local PCPs embrace telemedicine, including the types of services offered and the platforms used, significantly impacts the accessibility and convenience of care. Assessing telemedicine adoption requires examining practice websites, interviewing physicians, and analyzing patient surveys to gauge the level of utilization and patient satisfaction.

The intricate link between mental health and hypertension is well-established. Stress, anxiety, and depression can exacerbate high blood pressure and hinder treatment adherence. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the 18617 area is a vital component of a comprehensive hypertension management strategy. This includes the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors, as well as the integration of mental health services within primary care practices. Practices that offer integrated behavioral health services, or have strong referral networks with mental health professionals, are better positioned to address the holistic needs of patients with hypertension. Evaluating the availability of mental health resources requires examining local directories, interviewing healthcare providers, and assessing the presence of collaborative care models.

Another key aspect of the 'Hypertension Score' involves the availability of resources beyond the doctor's office. This includes access to pharmacies for medication refills, local support groups for patients, and educational materials on healthy lifestyle choices. The presence of community programs focused on promoting healthy eating, regular exercise, and stress reduction can significantly contribute to improved hypertension management. Assessing these community resources requires examining local health initiatives, surveying community organizations, and reviewing the availability of educational materials in the area.

The 'Hypertension Score' itself would be a composite metric, incorporating all the factors discussed above. It would not be a simple average, but a weighted score, reflecting the relative importance of each factor. For example, physician-to-patient ratio might be given a higher weight than the availability of a single support group. The score could be presented on a scale, such as a percentage or a letter grade, providing a clear and concise overview of the healthcare landscape in the 18617 area.

The analysis should also consider the socioeconomic factors that can influence hypertension management. Poverty, lack of access to healthy food, and limited transportation options can all present barriers to care. The 'Hypertension Score' should acknowledge these challenges and, if possible, incorporate data on socioeconomic indicators to provide a more complete picture. This could involve analyzing census data, examining local poverty rates, and assessing the availability of social services.

Furthermore, the analysis should be dynamic, recognizing that the healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. The 'Hypertension Score' should be updated regularly, reflecting changes in physician availability, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. This would ensure that the assessment remains relevant and useful over time.

Finally, the analysis should offer specific recommendations for improvement. This could include suggestions for increasing the number of PCPs in the area, promoting telemedicine adoption, expanding mental health services, and supporting community-based health initiatives. These recommendations should be actionable and tailored to the specific needs of the 18617 community.

In conclusion, understanding the intricacies of hypertension management within Glen Lyon, PA (18617) requires a multi-faceted approach. The 'Hypertension Score' is more than just a number; it's a reflection of the community's ability to provide accessible, comprehensive, and patient-centered care. It's about understanding the specific challenges and opportunities within this unique area, and identifying ways to improve the health and well-being of its residents.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Glen Lyon, PA, and to explore the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, we encourage you to explore the powerful mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. Their interactive maps can provide valuable insights into physician locations, patient demographics, and access to care. Visit CartoChrome to visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment in your area.