18629, Mehoopany, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 18629, Mehoopany, Pennsylvania is 17 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.46 percent of the residents in 18629 has some form of health insurance. 44.90 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.01 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 18629 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 344 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18629. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 500 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 661 health care providers accessible to residents in 18629, Mehoopany, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in 18629 & Primary Care in Mehoopany

Evaluating the landscape of hypertension management in Mehoopany, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18629) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis delves into the availability of primary care physicians, their capacity to manage hypertension, and supporting resources. It considers factors like physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health services, ultimately providing a "Hypertension Score" assessment.

The cornerstone of effective hypertension management lies in accessible primary care. Mehoopany, a small community, likely faces challenges common to rural areas: a potentially limited number of primary care physicians. Determining the precise physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. Publicly available data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, the US Census Bureau, and potentially local hospital systems must be consulted. This data will reveal the number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the 18629 ZIP code and compare it to the population size. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of physicians, would significantly impact the Hypertension Score, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses and treatment.

Beyond the raw numbers, understanding the quality and accessibility of existing primary care practices is vital. Are there any practices within the 18629 ZIP code that stand out in their approach to hypertension management? This requires research into patient reviews, the practices' use of evidence-based guidelines (like those from the American Heart Association or the American College of Cardiology), and their commitment to patient education. Do these practices offer extended hours, weekend appointments, or same-day appointments to improve accessibility? Practices demonstrating a proactive approach to hypertension screening, diagnosis, and treatment, including the use of medication management protocols and lifestyle counseling, would contribute positively to the Hypertension Score.

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool, particularly in rural areas, to bridge the gap in healthcare access. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in Mehoopany is a critical factor. Does the practice offer virtual consultations for follow-up appointments, medication refills, and patient education related to hypertension? Telemedicine can expand access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living far from the practice. Practices embracing telemedicine would receive a higher score, reflecting their commitment to improving patient access and convenience.

Hypertension is often intertwined with mental health. Stress, anxiety, and depression can exacerbate hypertension and hinder treatment adherence. The availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through readily accessible referrals is crucial. Does the primary care practice in Mehoopany have a psychiatrist or psychologist on staff? Do they have established referral pathways to mental health professionals in the area? The integration of mental health services, either directly or through strong referral networks, is a key component of comprehensive hypertension management and would significantly enhance the Hypertension Score.

The overall Hypertension Score is a composite of these factors. A high score would indicate a robust primary care infrastructure, sufficient physician-to-patient ratios, proactive practices with a strong focus on hypertension management, the adoption of telemedicine, and the seamless integration of mental health services. Conversely, a low score would suggest a limited availability of primary care, potential barriers to access, and a lack of comprehensive support for patients with hypertension.

Specific examples of practices and their approaches are difficult to identify without specific data. However, if a practice like "Mehoopany Family Practice" (hypothetical name) demonstrated a physician-to-patient ratio exceeding the county average, actively utilized electronic health records with integrated hypertension management tools, offered telemedicine appointments, and had a strong referral network to mental health professionals, it would receive a high score. Conversely, a practice with a high patient load, limited resources, and no integration of telemedicine or mental health services would likely receive a lower score.

The analysis process requires careful consideration of various data points, including population demographics, physician availability, practice characteristics, and the integration of supporting services. It is a dynamic process, as the healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. The Hypertension Score is not a static number but rather a reflection of the current state of hypertension management within the community.

The evaluation process also needs to consider the socioeconomic factors impacting the community. The prevalence of hypertension can be influenced by factors like income, education levels, and access to healthy food options. These factors, while not directly related to the primary care infrastructure, can significantly impact the effectiveness of hypertension management efforts.

Ultimately, the goal is to provide a comprehensive assessment of the resources available to patients with hypertension in Mehoopany. This assessment can then inform strategies to improve care, address any identified gaps, and ultimately improve patient outcomes. This analysis is a starting point, and further investigation and data collection are crucial for a complete understanding of the situation.

For a visual representation of the primary care landscape in Mehoopany and surrounding areas, including the location of practices, physician density, and other relevant data points, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide valuable insights into the geographical distribution of healthcare resources and can help to identify areas with limited access to care.