18619, Hillsgrove, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 18619, Hillsgrove, Pennsylvania is 84 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.51 percent of the residents in 18619 has some form of health insurance. 53.28 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.15 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 18619 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 15 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18619. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 42 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 185 health care providers accessible to residents in 18619, Hillsgrove, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 18619 & Primary Care in Hillsgrove

Analyzing the landscape of healthcare within ZIP code 18619, encompassing the community of Hillsgrove, Pennsylvania, reveals a complex interplay of factors impacting hypertension management. This analysis provides a "Hypertension Score" assessment, considering physician availability, practice characteristics, technological adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial elements in effective hypertension care.

The foundation of any successful hypertension management program lies in accessible primary care. Hillsgrove's primary care availability is a critical determinant of the overall score. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio within the ZIP code is paramount. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of primary care physicians, would negatively impact the score. This scarcity could lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced opportunities for preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnoses and treatment initiation for individuals with hypertension. Conversely, a higher ratio, reflecting a more robust supply of primary care physicians, would contribute positively to the score.

Beyond sheer numbers, the distribution of primary care providers matters. Are the practices geographically dispersed, ensuring access for all residents, or are they concentrated in specific areas, potentially creating healthcare deserts for some? The proximity of practices to patients’ homes, workplaces, and public transportation routes significantly impacts accessibility and adherence to treatment plans.

The quality of care provided by these primary care physicians is equally important. This includes the experience and specialization of the physicians, the availability of support staff like nurses and medical assistants, and the implementation of evidence-based guidelines for hypertension management. The adoption of standardized protocols for blood pressure monitoring, medication management, and patient education is crucial. Practices that actively engage in these best practices would receive higher scores.

Standout practices within the 18619 ZIP code would be those demonstrating exceptional commitment to hypertension care. These might include practices that actively monitor patient outcomes, implement patient-centered care models, and offer comprehensive education programs. The presence of certified hypertension specialists or physicians with a demonstrated interest in cardiovascular health would also be a positive factor. Practices actively participating in quality improvement initiatives, such as those supported by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), would also be recognized for their commitment to excellence.

The integration of technology plays an increasingly vital role in hypertension management. Telemedicine adoption is a key indicator. Practices offering virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and online patient portals would receive higher scores. Telemedicine expands access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. It also facilitates more frequent monitoring of blood pressure readings and allows for timely adjustments to medication regimens. The ability to access and share patient data electronically between providers, including specialists and pharmacies, is also a critical factor.

Mental health is inextricably linked to hypertension. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure and adherence to treatment plans. The availability of mental health resources within primary care practices or through referral networks is therefore essential. Practices that screen patients for mental health conditions, offer counseling services, or have established partnerships with mental health professionals would receive higher scores. The integration of behavioral health interventions, such as stress management techniques and cognitive behavioral therapy, can significantly improve patient outcomes.

Furthermore, the availability of resources that support patient education and self-management is crucial. This includes access to educational materials on hypertension, healthy lifestyle choices, and medication adherence. Practices that offer group education sessions, provide individualized counseling, and utilize patient-friendly educational tools would be viewed favorably. The availability of bilingual resources is also a critical factor in serving the diverse population within the 18619 ZIP code.

The overall "Hypertension Score" for physicians in ZIP code 18619 would be a composite score, reflecting the weighting of these various factors. A high score would indicate a healthcare environment that is well-equipped to provide comprehensive and effective hypertension care. This includes a sufficient supply of primary care physicians, a commitment to evidence-based practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and a focus on patient education and self-management.

Conversely, a low score would suggest areas for improvement. This could include a shortage of primary care physicians, limited access to telemedicine, a lack of mental health support, or a deficiency in patient education resources. Identifying these areas for improvement is crucial for developing targeted interventions to enhance hypertension care within the community.

The analysis of these factors provides a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape in Hillsgrove. It highlights the strengths and weaknesses of the existing system and identifies opportunities for improvement. This type of data-driven assessment is essential for healthcare providers, policymakers, and community organizations to work collaboratively to improve the health and well-being of residents.

To gain a visual understanding of the geographical distribution of primary care providers, their access to telemedicine, and the availability of resources in the 18619 ZIP code, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome's interactive mapping platform allows you to visualize this data, providing a powerful tool for understanding the healthcare landscape and identifying areas of need.