18847, Susquehanna, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 18847, Susquehanna, Pennsylvania is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.17 percent of the residents in 18847 has some form of health insurance. 49.06 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.67 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 18847 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,410 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18847. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,027 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 161 health care providers accessible to residents in 18847, Susquehanna, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: ZIP Code 18847 & Primary Care in Susquehanna

Analyzing healthcare access and quality, particularly concerning hypertension management, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis delves into the landscape of primary care within Susquehanna County, focusing specifically on the 18847 ZIP code, to assess the availability and quality of care for individuals managing or at risk of developing hypertension. The evaluation considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial components of effective hypertension control.

The 18847 ZIP code, encompassing the town of Susquehanna, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities. Rural areas often face disparities in healthcare access compared to urban centers. Key factors influencing the “Hypertension Score” within this region include the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) actively practicing, the patient population size, and the resulting physician-to-patient ratio. A lower ratio generally indicates better access to care, potentially leading to earlier diagnosis and more consistent management of hypertension. Data from state licensing boards and insurance provider directories are essential to establish an accurate count of PCPs serving the area.

Accurate patient population figures are equally critical. The U.S. Census Bureau provides population estimates, which, combined with the PCP count, allows for a calculation of the physician-to-patient ratio. This ratio serves as a fundamental indicator of healthcare accessibility. A high ratio might suggest longer wait times for appointments, potentially hindering timely interventions and follow-up care for individuals with hypertension. This directly impacts the “Hypertension Score” negatively.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of care provided by existing practices is paramount. Identifying “standout practices” requires evaluating various metrics. These include the percentage of patients with controlled blood pressure, the utilization of evidence-based guidelines for hypertension management (e.g., those established by the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology), and patient satisfaction scores. Practices demonstrating consistently high performance in these areas would contribute positively to the overall “Hypertension Score.”

The presence and effectiveness of electronic health records (EHRs) are also significant. EHRs facilitate data sharing, enabling PCPs to track patient progress, monitor medication adherence, and coordinate care with specialists if necessary. Practices with robust EHR systems are better positioned to provide comprehensive hypertension management, thereby improving the “Hypertension Score.”

Telemedicine adoption plays a crucial role, particularly in rural areas where geographic barriers can limit access to care. The availability of telehealth services, including virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and medication management, can significantly enhance hypertension control. Practices actively utilizing telemedicine technologies would receive a higher rating, positively impacting the “Hypertension Score.” Telemedicine can bridge the distance gap and provide more frequent check-ins, which are beneficial for managing chronic conditions like hypertension.

Mental health is inextricably linked to physical health, and its integration into hypertension management is increasingly recognized as vital. Stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure levels and treatment adherence. Practices that offer or have strong referral networks for mental health services, including counseling and psychiatric care, are better equipped to address the holistic needs of patients with hypertension. This integrated approach contributes favorably to the “Hypertension Score.”

Furthermore, the availability of patient education resources, such as educational materials on lifestyle modifications (diet, exercise, stress management), and medication adherence strategies, is crucial. Practices that actively engage patients in their care through educational programs and resources are more likely to achieve better outcomes. This proactive approach to patient education positively influences the “Hypertension Score.”

Another crucial aspect is the presence of ancillary services. On-site pharmacies, laboratory services for blood pressure monitoring, and access to registered dietitians or certified diabetes educators can improve patient convenience and facilitate more effective management. Practices that offer these integrated services contribute to a higher “Hypertension Score.”

The "Hypertension Score" for 18847, and for primary care in Susquehanna generally, is not a static number. It's a dynamic reflection of the healthcare landscape. Regular assessments are needed to track changes in physician availability, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health services. This ongoing monitoring is crucial for identifying areas for improvement and ensuring that residents have access to the best possible care.

The specific practices within the 18847 ZIP code would be evaluated based on the criteria outlined above. The “Hypertension Score” would be assigned based on a weighted average of these factors, reflecting the overall quality and accessibility of hypertension care. This score provides a valuable benchmark for healthcare providers, policymakers, and residents alike.

The “Hypertension Score” analysis would also consider the presence of community health initiatives. Programs focused on hypertension screening, education, and prevention can significantly impact population health. Practices that actively participate in or support such initiatives would receive positive consideration, further influencing the score.

Moreover, the analysis needs to account for socioeconomic factors. Income levels, insurance coverage rates, and access to transportation can all influence healthcare access and outcomes. Practices serving a population with significant socioeconomic challenges might face additional hurdles in providing care. These factors would be considered when evaluating the “Hypertension Score.”

In conclusion, the “Hypertension Score” for ZIP Code 18847 and the broader Susquehanna area reflects a complex interplay of factors. The analysis considers physician availability, the quality of care provided by practices, telemedicine adoption, the integration of mental health resources, and the socioeconomic context. The resulting score provides a comprehensive assessment of hypertension management and a valuable tool for improving healthcare access and quality.

For a more detailed, visually rich, and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Susquehanna County, including physician locations, patient demographics, and access to care metrics, explore the power of CartoChrome maps.