18618, Harveys Lake, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 18618, Harveys Lake, Pennsylvania is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.78 percent of the residents in 18618 has some form of health insurance. 35.02 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.93 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 18618 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 609 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18618. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 875 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,134 health care providers accessible to residents in 18618, Harveys Lake, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: 18618 Harveys Lake, PA

Analyzing the landscape of hypertension care within ZIP code 18618, encompassing Harveys Lake, PA, necessitates a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians, assess physician-to-patient ratios, explore the adoption of telemedicine, examine the integration of mental health resources, and identify any standout practices. Ultimately, the goal is to provide a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" assessment, offering insights into the quality and accessibility of care for individuals managing or at risk of this prevalent condition.

The foundation of effective hypertension management rests on accessible primary care. Within the Harveys Lake area, understanding the density of primary care physicians is crucial. This involves identifying the number of actively practicing family medicine, internal medicine, and general practitioners within the 18618 ZIP code and its immediate surrounding areas. Data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health, insurance provider directories, and online physician databases must be cross-referenced to ensure accuracy. A low physician-to-patient ratio, indicating a higher concentration of doctors relative to the population, generally suggests better access to care. Conversely, a high ratio could signal potential challenges in securing timely appointments and consistent follow-up care, both critical for successful hypertension management.

Beyond simple physician counts, evaluating the quality of care is paramount. This requires examining the practices’ adherence to evidence-based guidelines for hypertension management. This includes assessing their protocols for blood pressure monitoring, medication management, lifestyle counseling (diet, exercise, smoking cessation), and the frequency of patient follow-up. Are practices utilizing electronic health records (EHRs) effectively to track patient data, facilitate communication, and coordinate care? Are they actively participating in quality improvement initiatives focused on hypertension control? The presence of certified diabetes educators, registered dietitians, or other specialized staff within a practice can also contribute positively to the overall "Hypertension Score."

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and medication management via telehealth platforms can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations, transportation challenges, or those residing in geographically isolated areas. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are likely to score higher in this analysis. This involves assessing the availability of virtual appointment options, the use of remote monitoring devices, and the integration of telehealth into the overall care workflow.

The intricate link between mental health and hypertension cannot be overlooked. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure control. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within primary care practices or through readily accessible referrals is essential. Practices that screen patients for mental health conditions, offer on-site counseling services, or have established partnerships with mental health professionals will receive a higher score. This integration of behavioral health into primary care is a hallmark of a patient-centered approach and is critical for holistic hypertension management.

Identifying "standout practices" involves recognizing those that excel in multiple areas. These practices might demonstrate exemplary adherence to clinical guidelines, offer comprehensive patient education programs, actively utilize telemedicine, and seamlessly integrate mental health services. They may also have a strong track record of patient satisfaction and positive health outcomes. This aspect of the analysis requires gathering patient feedback, reviewing practice websites and marketing materials, and potentially conducting interviews with healthcare professionals to gain a deeper understanding of their approach to hypertension care.

The data gathered from these various sources will be synthesized to create a composite "Hypertension Score" for the 18618 ZIP code. This score will reflect the overall quality and accessibility of hypertension care in the area. The score will be a relative measure, allowing for comparison with other geographic areas and highlighting areas for improvement. It will also provide valuable information for residents seeking primary care physicians and for healthcare providers aiming to enhance their services.

For example, a practice scoring highly might demonstrate a low physician-to-patient ratio, consistent use of EHRs, active telemedicine adoption, and robust mental health integration. Conversely, a practice scoring lower might struggle with appointment availability, lack telemedicine options, and have limited mental health resources. The analysis will identify these strengths and weaknesses, providing a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare landscape.

The analysis will also consider the availability of specialty care, such as cardiology and nephrology, which are often involved in the management of complex hypertension cases. The proximity and accessibility of these specialists are crucial for patients requiring advanced diagnostic testing or specialized treatment. The analysis will assess referral patterns and the ease with which patients can access these essential services.

Furthermore, the analysis will factor in the demographics of the population within the 18618 ZIP code. Understanding the prevalence of hypertension, the age distribution, and the presence of any specific risk factors within the population will inform the overall assessment. This demographic data will help to contextualize the findings and tailor recommendations for improving hypertension care in the area.

In conclusion, this "Hypertension Score" analysis for 18618, Harveys Lake, PA, provides a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape related to hypertension. By examining physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, mental health integration, and the presence of standout practices, this analysis offers valuable insights into the quality and accessibility of care. This detailed assessment is designed to empower residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers to improve hypertension management and promote better health outcomes within the community.

To visualize the geographic distribution of physicians, analyze patient demographics, and identify areas with the greatest need for improved hypertension care, we encourage you to explore the power of location-based data. **Visit CartoChrome maps today to unlock the potential of interactive mapping and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Harveys Lake and beyond.**