18843, South Montrose, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 18843, South Montrose, Pennsylvania is 15 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 18843 has some form of health insurance. 34.50 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.66 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 18843 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 55 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18843. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 51 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 162 health care providers accessible to residents in 18843, South Montrose, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: South Montrose, PA (ZIP Code 18843)

This analysis assesses the landscape of hypertension care within ZIP code 18843 (South Montrose, PA) and its surrounding areas, focusing on primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" evaluation, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement in managing this prevalent health concern.

The foundation of effective hypertension management lies in accessible primary care. Within the 18843 ZIP code, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a crucial factor. To evaluate this, we need to consider the physician-to-patient ratio. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per patient, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially compromised care quality. Assessing the patient population within 18843, considering age demographics, and prevalence of chronic conditions like hypertension is essential. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) can provide insights into physician supply and demand within the area. Further, the analysis would delve into the number of active PCPs practicing within the specified ZIP code and the surrounding areas that residents commonly access. This includes family medicine physicians, internal medicine specialists, and any other practitioners who provide primary care services.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality and accessibility of primary care are paramount. Are practices accepting new patients? What are the average wait times for appointments, both for routine checkups and for urgent care needs? The analysis would investigate the appointment scheduling processes, including the availability of same-day or next-day appointments for acute issues. We also need to consider the geographic distribution of practices. Are they easily accessible to all residents, including those in more rural or underserved areas? Transportation challenges can significantly impact access to care, and the presence of public transportation options or the availability of transportation assistance programs would be factored in.

Identifying standout practices within the area is crucial. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive hypertension management often have dedicated programs, such as regular blood pressure screenings, patient education initiatives, and medication management support. They may also utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient data, identify at-risk individuals, and facilitate communication between providers. The analysis would investigate the use of evidence-based guidelines for hypertension treatment, such as those published by the American Heart Association (AHA) and the American College of Cardiology (ACC).

Telemedicine adoption is a critical component of modern healthcare, especially in rural areas where access to specialists and timely care can be challenging. The analysis would assess the extent to which local practices offer telemedicine services for hypertension management. This includes virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and medication refills. Telemedicine can improve patient convenience, reduce travel time, and facilitate more frequent contact between patients and their healthcare providers. It can also be used to provide education and support, empowering patients to better manage their condition. The adoption of remote patient monitoring (RPM) technologies, where patients can track their blood pressure at home and share the data with their physician, is another factor that would be considered.

The interconnectedness of physical and mental health is well-established, and the integration of mental health resources into hypertension management is increasingly recognized as essential. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure levels and treatment adherence. The analysis would examine the availability of mental health services within the primary care practices and the broader community. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists. Does the practice have integrated behavioral health services, where a mental health professional is embedded within the primary care team? Are there referral pathways to mental health specialists in the area? The availability of support groups and educational resources for managing stress and anxiety would also be considered.

The "Hypertension Score" would incorporate these factors, assigning weights based on their relative importance. The final score would reflect the overall effectiveness of the healthcare system in managing hypertension within the 18843 ZIP code. This score would not only assess the current state of affairs but also identify areas for improvement. This includes the need for increased physician recruitment, the expansion of telemedicine services, and the integration of mental health resources.

The analysis would also consider the impact of socioeconomic factors on hypertension management. Income, education, and access to healthy food options can all influence blood pressure control. The availability of community resources, such as food banks, nutrition education programs, and exercise facilities, would be factored into the evaluation. The analysis would also look at the availability of health insurance coverage and the affordability of medications.

Finally, the analysis would consider the overall health literacy of the population. Are patients well-informed about hypertension, its risks, and its management? The availability of patient education materials, both in print and online, would be assessed. The analysis would also evaluate the communication skills of healthcare providers and their ability to effectively communicate complex medical information to patients.

In conclusion, the "Hypertension Score" analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare landscape in South Montrose, PA, and its surrounding areas, with a focus on hypertension management. The assessment considers factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide a valuable resource for healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement in managing this important health concern.

To visualize and further explore the healthcare landscape in 18843, including physician locations, practice details, and community resources, visit CartoChrome maps.