18708, Shavertown, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 18708, Shavertown, Pennsylvania is 95 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.57 percent of the residents in 18708 has some form of health insurance. 31.68 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 85.17 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 18708 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,540 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18708. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,925 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,701 health care providers accessible to residents in 18708, Shavertown, Pennsylvania.

**Hypertension Score Analysis: Shavertown, PA (ZIP Code 18708)**

Analyzing hypertension management within Shavertown, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18708) requires a multifaceted approach, evaluating both the availability of primary care physicians and the quality of care they provide, specifically focusing on hypertension management. This analysis will consider factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, ultimately aiming to provide a "Hypertension Score" assessment.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Primary Care Availability**

The foundation of effective hypertension management lies in accessible primary care. A low physician-to-patient ratio, indicating a greater availability of doctors, is crucial. Publicly available data, such as that from the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the US Census Bureau, can be used to estimate this ratio within the 18708 ZIP code. This data will need to be combined with information on the number of practicing primary care physicians (PCPs) in the area. A higher ratio, meaning more patients per doctor, could indicate potential challenges in timely appointments and comprehensive care.

The availability of primary care also hinges on the types of practices present. Are there solo practitioners, large group practices, or hospital-affiliated clinics? Group practices often offer greater resources and the potential for specialized care, including dedicated hypertension management programs. The presence of urgent care clinics, while not a substitute for primary care, can provide immediate attention for acute issues, potentially relieving some pressure on PCPs.

**Standout Practices and Hypertension Management Protocols**

Identifying "standout practices" requires evaluating specific criteria related to hypertension care. This includes examining the use of evidence-based guidelines, the frequency of patient monitoring, and the implementation of patient education programs. Practices that consistently demonstrate excellent outcomes, such as achieving target blood pressure levels in a high percentage of their hypertensive patients, would be considered exemplary.

Key indicators of a practice's effectiveness include the implementation of standardized protocols for hypertension screening, diagnosis, and treatment. This involves regular blood pressure checks, the use of appropriate diagnostic tests, and the prescription of evidence-based medications. The practice's commitment to patient education is also crucial. Providing patients with the knowledge and tools they need to manage their condition, including lifestyle modifications, medication adherence, and self-monitoring techniques, can significantly improve outcomes.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact**

Telemedicine has the potential to significantly enhance hypertension management, particularly in areas with limited access to care. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in 18708 is a key factor to assess. This includes the availability of virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and the use of digital health tools to track patient progress.

Telemedicine can overcome geographical barriers, allowing patients to connect with their physicians remotely. This can be particularly beneficial for patients with mobility issues or those living in rural areas. Remote blood pressure monitoring allows physicians to track patient blood pressure readings over time, providing valuable insights into treatment effectiveness and identifying potential issues early on. The use of digital health tools, such as mobile apps, can empower patients to actively participate in their care and improve medication adherence.

**Mental Health Resources and Integrated Care**

The link between mental health and hypertension is well-established. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can contribute to elevated blood pressure. Therefore, the integration of mental health resources into primary care practices is a crucial aspect of comprehensive hypertension management.

Assessing the availability of mental health services within primary care practices in 18708 is essential. This includes the presence of on-site mental health professionals, such as psychologists or therapists, or partnerships with external mental health providers. The ability to screen patients for mental health conditions and provide appropriate referrals is also critical. Integrated care, where mental health and primary care services are coordinated, can lead to better outcomes for patients with both hypertension and mental health issues.

**Specific Considerations for Shavertown**

Shavertown, as a suburban community, likely has a mix of residents, including both older adults and younger families. This demographic diversity requires a tailored approach to hypertension management. Practices should consider the specific needs of their patient population, including cultural sensitivity, language barriers, and access to transportation.

The availability of pharmacies within the ZIP code is also a factor. Easy access to pharmacies is essential for patients to fill their prescriptions and receive medication counseling. The presence of community resources, such as support groups and educational programs, can further enhance patient engagement and improve outcomes.

**Hypertension Score Assessment**

Based on the above analysis, a "Hypertension Score" can be assigned. This score would reflect the overall quality of hypertension management in Shavertown. The score would consider factors such as:

* **Physician-to-Patient Ratio:** A higher ratio would negatively impact the score.
* **Availability of Primary Care:** Limited access would negatively impact the score.
* **Presence of Standout Practices:** The number and quality of standout practices would positively impact the score.
* **Telemedicine Adoption:** Higher adoption would positively impact the score.
* **Integration of Mental Health Resources:** The presence of integrated mental health services would positively impact the score.

The score could be presented on a scale (e.g., 1-10, with 10 being the best) and accompanied by a detailed explanation of the factors contributing to the score. This allows for a comprehensive understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of hypertension management within the community.

**Conclusion**

Understanding the landscape of hypertension management in Shavertown, PA (ZIP Code 18708) requires a detailed assessment of primary care availability, physician practices, telemedicine integration, and mental health resources. This analysis, culminating in a "Hypertension Score," provides a valuable tool for patients, healthcare providers, and community stakeholders.

**Take Action:**

To visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Shavertown and beyond, explore the power of location intelligence. **Visit CartoChrome maps** to unlock insights and make informed decisions based on geographic data.