18636, Noxen, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 18636, Noxen, Pennsylvania is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.73 percent of the residents in 18636 has some form of health insurance. 42.32 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.08 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 18636 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 336 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18636. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 356 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,929 health care providers accessible to residents in 18636, Noxen, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Physicians and Primary Care in Noxen, PA (ZIP Code 18636)

Analyzing the landscape of healthcare within ZIP code 18636, encompassing Noxen, Pennsylvania, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on hypertension management, evaluating the availability and quality of primary care, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, all critical factors influencing patient outcomes. The ultimate goal is to provide a "Hypertension Score" assessment, gauging the overall support system for individuals managing or at risk of developing high blood pressure.

The foundation of effective hypertension control lies in accessible and competent primary care. In Noxen, understanding the physician-to-patient ratio is paramount. While specific, up-to-the-minute ratios are dynamic and require continuous data collection, publicly available resources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and state medical boards can offer insights. A low ratio, indicating a high number of patients per physician, can strain resources and potentially limit the time doctors can dedicate to individual patient needs, including comprehensive hypertension management. Conversely, a favorable ratio suggests greater access to care and potentially improved outcomes.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care practices within the ZIP code is crucial. This involves evaluating several factors: the number of board-certified physicians specializing in internal medicine or family medicine, the availability of on-site diagnostic equipment (e.g., blood pressure monitors, ECG machines, and basic lab facilities), and the practice's adherence to established hypertension treatment guidelines. Practices demonstrating a commitment to these elements are more likely to provide proactive and effective care, including regular blood pressure screenings, lifestyle counseling, and appropriate medication management.

Identifying standout practices requires delving deeper. This involves analyzing patient reviews, assessing the practice's participation in quality improvement programs, and investigating their utilization of electronic health records (EHRs). EHRs, when implemented effectively, facilitate better patient data management, medication reconciliation, and communication between healthcare providers. Practices that demonstrate a strong commitment to these areas are likely to offer a higher standard of care. Specific practice names are omitted here to maintain neutrality, but a thorough investigation would identify those excelling in these domains.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical component of the "Hypertension Score." The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and medication management via telehealth platforms can significantly enhance access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in rural areas. Practices embracing telemedicine can improve patient convenience, reduce travel burdens, and provide more frequent monitoring, which is essential for effective hypertension control. The extent of telemedicine integration, including the types of services offered and the technology platforms used, will directly impact the "Hypertension Score."

The link between hypertension and mental health is well-established. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can contribute to elevated blood pressure and hinder adherence to treatment plans. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the community and their integration with primary care practices are crucial. This includes access to therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups, as well as the ability of primary care physicians to screen for mental health conditions and make appropriate referrals. Practices that actively integrate mental health services into their hypertension management protocols will receive a higher score.

Furthermore, the availability of resources for patient education and self-management is essential. This includes access to educational materials on healthy eating, exercise, and stress management, as well as support groups and programs that promote patient empowerment. Practices that provide these resources demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care and improve the likelihood of long-term success in managing hypertension.

The "Hypertension Score" for physicians in ZIP code 18636 would be a composite measure, reflecting the factors discussed above. It would consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care practices, the extent of telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. Each factor would be assigned a weight based on its relative importance, and the overall score would provide a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare landscape for hypertension management in Noxen.

In conclusion, the success of hypertension management in Noxen depends on a strong primary care infrastructure, the effective use of technology, and a holistic approach that addresses both physical and mental health needs. While a detailed, numerical "Hypertension Score" requires specific data collection and analysis, the framework outlined here provides a basis for understanding the key factors that influence patient outcomes.

To gain a more visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Noxen, including the locations of primary care practices, the availability of specialists, and the demographic characteristics of the population, consider exploring **CartoChrome maps**. These maps can provide a valuable spatial context for the information discussed, enabling a more informed assessment of healthcare access and resource allocation within the community.