18704, Kingston, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 18704, Kingston, Pennsylvania is 92 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.50 percent of the residents in 18704 has some form of health insurance. 44.15 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.22 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 18704 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,311 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18704. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,714 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,982 health care providers accessible to residents in 18704, Kingston, Pennsylvania.

**Hypertension Score Analysis: Kingston, PA (ZIP Code 18704)**

This analysis evaluates the quality of hypertension management and primary care accessibility within Kingston, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18704). It considers factors crucial for effective patient care, including physician availability, adoption of modern technologies, and integration of mental health resources. The aim is to provide a comprehensive overview, offering insights into strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of access. Analyzing the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) actively practicing within 18704, compared to the estimated population, reveals potential challenges. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced patient follow-up, and potentially, delayed diagnosis and treatment for conditions like hypertension. Data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the American Medical Association are necessary to determine an accurate ratio. The availability of specialists, particularly cardiologists, is also critical. Easy access to cardiology expertise facilitates accurate diagnosis and management of hypertension complications.

Standout practices within the area demonstrate best practices in hypertension management. Identifying these practices involves evaluating several key metrics. First, the percentage of patients with controlled blood pressure levels is crucial. Practices with a high rate of controlled hypertension often employ effective strategies. Second, the utilization of evidence-based guidelines, such as those from the American Heart Association (AHA) and the American College of Cardiology (ACC), is essential. Third, the implementation of patient education programs, empowering patients to understand their condition and adhere to treatment plans, is a significant factor. Finally, the use of electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient data, manage medication adherence, and facilitate communication is vital.

Telemedicine adoption is rapidly transforming healthcare delivery, particularly in managing chronic conditions like hypertension. Practices that embrace telemedicine offer patients greater convenience and accessibility. This includes virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and medication management via telehealth platforms. Telemedicine can reduce the need for frequent in-person visits, especially for routine check-ups and medication adjustments. Evaluating the extent of telemedicine adoption within Kingston requires assessing the availability of telehealth services offered by local practices, the types of services provided, and patient satisfaction with these virtual interactions.

The integration of mental health resources is increasingly recognized as crucial in managing hypertension. Stress and anxiety can significantly elevate blood pressure, impacting treatment outcomes. Practices that incorporate mental health services, either through in-house providers or referrals to external specialists, demonstrate a more holistic approach to patient care. This includes screening for mental health conditions, providing counseling services, and collaborating with psychiatrists and psychologists. Evaluating the presence of mental health integration involves assessing the availability of mental health providers within the practice or through referral networks, and the implementation of screening protocols for mental health issues.

Beyond direct clinical care, the broader healthcare ecosystem plays a significant role. The availability of affordable medications, access to healthy food options, and community-based wellness programs all contribute to effective hypertension management. Assessing the availability of these resources requires examining local pharmacies, grocery stores, and community health initiatives. Collaboration between healthcare providers and community organizations is vital to address social determinants of health, creating a supportive environment for patients with hypertension.

The analysis would further delve into specific practices within the 18704 ZIP code. The ‘Kingston Family Practice’, for instance, might be evaluated based on its patient reviews, reported hypertension control rates, and adoption of telemedicine. Similarly, ‘Riverview Medical Associates’ would be examined, looking at its patient education programs, integration of mental health services, and physician-to-patient ratio. The assessment would also consider any affiliations these practices have with larger healthcare systems, such as Geisinger or Commonwealth Health, as these affiliations often impact resource availability and quality of care.

The evaluation of primary care availability in Kingston extends beyond the number of physicians. It also considers factors such as appointment wait times, insurance acceptance, and the availability of after-hours care. Practices with shorter wait times, a broader acceptance of insurance plans, and readily available after-hours care demonstrate greater accessibility. This information can be gathered through patient surveys, online reviews, and direct inquiries to the practices.

The quality of care also hinges on the patient experience. Patient satisfaction surveys, online reviews, and feedback from patient advocacy groups provide valuable insights into the patient-provider relationship, communication effectiveness, and overall satisfaction with care. Practices that prioritize patient communication, provide clear and concise information, and actively involve patients in their treatment plans often achieve better outcomes.

In summary, a comprehensive ‘Hypertension Score’ analysis for Kingston, PA (ZIP code 18704) requires a multi-faceted approach. It involves assessing physician-to-patient ratios, evaluating the adoption of telemedicine and mental health resources, examining the performance of individual practices, and considering the broader healthcare ecosystem. This analysis would identify areas of strength and weakness, providing valuable information for patients seeking care and for healthcare providers striving to improve the quality of hypertension management in the community.

To gain a visual representation of the data and explore the healthcare landscape of Kingston, PA, and other regions, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. They offer an interactive and informative platform to analyze healthcare data and visualize the key factors discussed in this analysis.