18845, Stevensville, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 18845, Stevensville, Pennsylvania is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.76 percent of the residents in 18845 has some form of health insurance. 59.64 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.41 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 18845 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 84 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18845. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 154 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 603 health care providers accessible to residents in 18845, Stevensville, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Stevensville, PA (ZIP Code 18845)

The assessment of hypertension management within Stevensville, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18845), necessitates a multi-faceted approach. This analysis delves into key areas impacting patient care, including physician availability, practice quality, telemedicine integration, and the accessibility of mental health support. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" profile, identifying strengths and weaknesses within the local healthcare landscape.

The foundation of effective hypertension control rests on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). Evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio within 18845 is crucial. While precise figures fluctuate, rural areas often face challenges in this regard. A low ratio, meaning a scarcity of PCPs relative to the population, can lead to delayed diagnoses, infrequent follow-up appointments, and ultimately, poorer blood pressure control. Data from state medical boards, combined with local census information, would be used to calculate this critical metric.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of care provided by existing practices is paramount. A "Hypertension Score" considers several factors. Are practices actively participating in initiatives to improve blood pressure management, such as the CDC's Million Hearts program? Do they utilize evidence-based guidelines for diagnosis and treatment? Do they employ standardized protocols for blood pressure monitoring, including home blood pressure monitoring programs? Furthermore, practices should demonstrate proficiency in patient education, empowering individuals to actively manage their condition.

Identifying standout practices within 18845 is crucial. These practices would be those that demonstrate exemplary performance in hypertension management. This assessment involves examining patient outcomes, such as the percentage of patients achieving blood pressure control targets. It also considers the use of electronic health records (EHRs) to facilitate data tracking and analysis, allowing for continuous improvement. Practices that prioritize patient communication and offer extended appointment hours or weekend availability would also receive higher scores.

The integration of telemedicine offers a significant opportunity to enhance hypertension care in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to remotely consult with their physicians, monitor their blood pressure, and receive medication adjustments. The "Hypertension Score" specifically evaluates the adoption and utilization of telemedicine by local practices. Are virtual appointments readily available? Are patients able to use remote monitoring devices? Practices that embrace telemedicine are better positioned to provide convenient and accessible care, particularly for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges.

The intricate link between mental health and hypertension cannot be overlooked. Stress and anxiety are known contributors to elevated blood pressure. The "Hypertension Score" considers the availability of mental health resources within the Stevensville area. Are mental health professionals readily accessible? Do practices offer integrated behavioral health services? Collaboration between PCPs and mental health specialists is essential for holistic patient care. Practices that prioritize mental well-being are better equipped to address the multifaceted challenges associated with hypertension.

The "Hypertension Score" also considers the availability of ancillary services. Are there local pharmacies that offer medication adherence programs? Are there dietitians or nutritionists available to provide guidance on lifestyle modifications? Access to these supporting services can significantly improve patient outcomes. The score assesses the presence and accessibility of these resources, recognizing their vital role in comprehensive hypertension management.

Patient education is a cornerstone of effective hypertension control. The "Hypertension Score" evaluates the educational resources available to patients. Do practices provide educational materials on lifestyle modifications, such as diet and exercise? Do they offer group education sessions or individual counseling? Practices that prioritize patient empowerment are better positioned to achieve long-term success in managing hypertension. The score also considers the availability of educational materials in multiple languages, catering to the diverse needs of the community.

Furthermore, the "Hypertension Score" considers the practice's commitment to patient-centered care. This includes factors such as appointment wait times, the ease of scheduling appointments, and the overall patient experience. Practices that prioritize patient satisfaction are more likely to build strong relationships with their patients, leading to improved adherence to treatment plans and better blood pressure control. The score would incorporate patient feedback through surveys or online reviews to assess this critical aspect of care.

The analysis of the "Hypertension Score" would also take into account the socioeconomic factors affecting the community. Poverty, lack of access to healthy food options, and limited transportation options can all negatively impact hypertension management. The score considers these factors and evaluates the practice's awareness of and response to these social determinants of health. Practices that actively address these challenges are better positioned to provide equitable care to all patients.

In conclusion, the "Hypertension Score" for Stevensville, PA (18845) provides a nuanced assessment of the local healthcare landscape. It considers the availability of PCPs, the quality of care provided by practices, the integration of telemedicine, the accessibility of mental health resources, and the availability of ancillary services. By evaluating these factors, the score offers a comprehensive overview of the strengths and weaknesses within the community. This analysis is designed to identify areas for improvement and to highlight best practices in hypertension management.

To visualize this data and gain a deeper understanding of the spatial relationships between healthcare resources and patient needs in Stevensville and surrounding areas, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. They provide interactive visualizations that can help you identify areas with the greatest need and track progress over time.