18707, Mountain Top, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 18707, Mountain Top, Pennsylvania is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.35 percent of the residents in 18707 has some form of health insurance. 28.10 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 83.05 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 18707 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,746 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18707. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,577 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,480 health care providers accessible to residents in 18707, Mountain Top, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 18707 and Primary Care Availability in Mountain Top

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality within a specific geographic area like ZIP code 18707 (which includes Mountain Top, Pennsylvania) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis focuses on key indicators relevant to hypertension management, including physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health resources. The goal is to provide an informed "Hypertension Score" assessment, though it’s important to acknowledge that a precise numerical score is beyond the scope of this assessment and would require access to proprietary data. Instead, we will provide a qualitative analysis.

The cornerstone of effective hypertension management is access to a primary care physician (PCP). In Mountain Top, the availability of PCPs directly impacts the ability of residents to receive regular checkups, blood pressure monitoring, and medication management. A critical metric is the physician-to-patient ratio. While precise figures fluctuate and are often difficult to obtain publicly, a low ratio (fewer physicians per capita) suggests potential challenges in securing timely appointments and comprehensive care. Areas with a higher ratio generally indicate better access. Researching the local healthcare landscape, including the number of practicing PCPs in 18707, the size of the patient population, and appointment wait times, provides valuable insights into this ratio.

Beyond the raw numbers, the characteristics of local primary care practices are crucial. The presence of board-certified physicians, particularly in internal medicine or family medicine, is a positive indicator. Practices that emphasize preventive care, including proactive screening for hypertension and cardiovascular risk factors, contribute significantly to improved patient outcomes. Furthermore, practices that offer comprehensive services, such as on-site blood pressure monitoring, medication management support, and patient education materials, demonstrate a commitment to hypertension control. Analyzing the patient reviews and testimonials can also offer valuable insights into the patient experience and the quality of care provided.

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool for managing chronic conditions like hypertension, especially in areas with limited access to in-person care. Its adoption rate within 18707 is a key factor in the Hypertension Score. Practices that offer telehealth consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and virtual medication refills can significantly improve patient convenience and adherence to treatment plans. Assessing the availability of these services, the types of telehealth platforms used, and the extent of patient engagement with these technologies is vital. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care and can potentially mitigate the impact of geographical barriers.

The interconnectedness of physical and mental health is undeniable, particularly in the context of hypertension. Stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure levels and treatment adherence. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the community is a critical component of the Hypertension Score. Assessing the presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed therapists, within the 18707 area is crucial. Furthermore, the integration of mental health services within primary care practices, such as on-site counseling or referrals to mental health specialists, is highly beneficial. The ability of patients to access mental health support is a significant factor in overall well-being and hypertension management.

Identifying "standout practices" within 18707 requires a deeper dive into practice-specific data. These practices may excel in several areas, including patient satisfaction, clinical outcomes related to hypertension control, and the utilization of innovative technologies. A practice that consistently achieves optimal blood pressure control rates among its hypertensive patients, demonstrates a commitment to patient education, and actively utilizes telemedicine for follow-up appointments would likely be considered a standout. Furthermore, practices that participate in quality improvement initiatives and are recognized for their achievements by professional organizations are also strong contenders.

The geographical distribution of healthcare resources within 18707 and the surrounding areas is also important. The proximity of patients to primary care practices, pharmacies, and specialists can significantly impact their ability to access and adhere to treatment plans. Analyzing the location of these resources and identifying any geographic disparities in access can provide valuable insights. Areas with limited access to healthcare facilities may require targeted interventions, such as mobile health clinics or community-based health programs, to improve hypertension management.

Another critical aspect of the Hypertension Score is the integration of health information technology (HIT). Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient data, generate automated reminders for appointments and medication refills, and facilitate communication between healthcare providers demonstrate a commitment to efficiency and patient safety. The interoperability of EHR systems, allowing for the seamless exchange of patient information between different healthcare providers, is also highly beneficial. Practices that embrace HIT are better equipped to manage chronic conditions like hypertension effectively.

The overall "Hypertension Score" for doctors in ZIP code 18707 and primary care availability in Mountain Top is a complex evaluation. It depends on the interplay of these factors: physician-to-patient ratio, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resource availability, standout practices, geographical distribution of resources, and the integration of health information technology. A high score would indicate a well-resourced healthcare environment with good access to primary care, comprehensive services, innovative technologies, and integrated mental health support. Conversely, a lower score would suggest potential challenges in accessing and managing hypertension effectively.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in 18707, including the locations of primary care practices, pharmacies, and other healthcare resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. These maps can help visualize the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, identify potential areas of need, and support informed decision-making.