18925, Furlong, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 18925, Furlong, Pennsylvania is 94 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.87 percent of the residents in 18925 has some form of health insurance. 15.59 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 89.86 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 18925 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,000 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18925. An estimate of 6 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 893 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 8,736 health care providers accessible to residents in 18925, Furlong, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in 18925 & Primary Care Availability in Furlong

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality, particularly regarding hypertension management, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis focuses on the availability and characteristics of primary care physicians (PCPs) within ZIP code 18925, encompassing Furlong, Pennsylvania, to assess the resources available for hypertension care. We will explore factors influencing a hypothetical "Hypertension Score," considering physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial components of effective hypertension management.

Physician-to-patient ratios serve as a foundational metric. A higher ratio, indicating more patients per PCP, can potentially lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially compromised care quality. Ideally, 18925 should exhibit a favorable PCP-to-patient ratio, reflecting sufficient primary care resources to meet the needs of the population. Data from credible sources, such as the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the American Medical Association, would be necessary to determine the actual ratio within this specific ZIP code. A concerningly high ratio would negatively impact the Hypertension Score, signaling potential challenges in accessing timely and comprehensive care.

Standout practices, those demonstrating excellence in hypertension management, can significantly elevate the overall Hypertension Score. These practices often implement evidence-based guidelines, such as those from the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology. They may employ strategies like regular blood pressure monitoring, medication adherence support programs, patient education initiatives focused on lifestyle modifications (diet, exercise, stress management), and collaborative care models involving nurses, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement programs, track patient outcomes, and demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement would receive higher marks in this analysis.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. Telemedicine, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and patient portals, can enhance access to care, especially for individuals with mobility limitations, transportation challenges, or those residing in geographically remote areas. Practices embracing telemedicine can improve patient convenience, facilitate more frequent monitoring of blood pressure, and provide timely interventions. The Hypertension Score benefits significantly from practices offering telemedicine options, particularly if these services are readily accessible and integrated into the overall care plan.

The integration of mental health resources is often overlooked but is crucial for effective hypertension management. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure levels and adherence to treatment plans. Practices that recognize this connection and provide access to mental health services, either through in-house therapists or referrals to external providers, demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care. This integration can include screening for mental health conditions, providing counseling or therapy, and coordinating care between primary care physicians and mental health professionals. Practices prioritizing this aspect of care would receive a higher Hypertension Score.

Specific practices within 18925 would need to be evaluated individually to determine their contributions to the overall score. For example, a practice that boasts a low physician-to-patient ratio, actively uses telemedicine for blood pressure monitoring, and has integrated mental health services would likely receive a high score. Conversely, a practice with a high ratio, limited telemedicine options, and no mental health integration would likely receive a lower score. Publicly available information, such as practice websites, patient reviews, and data from health insurance providers, could be used to assess these factors.

Primary care availability in Furlong, within 18925, is directly related to the overall Hypertension Score. If Furlong has a limited number of PCPs, residents may face challenges in accessing timely care. This could lead to delayed diagnosis, inadequate treatment, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes. Conversely, a robust primary care network, with readily available appointments and a diverse range of providers, would positively influence the score. The geographical distribution of practices within Furlong is also important. Are practices easily accessible by public transportation? Are there enough practices to serve all the residents?

Furthermore, the availability of specialists, such as cardiologists and nephrologists, is indirectly relevant. While primary care physicians are the cornerstone of hypertension management, access to specialists is crucial for patients with complex cases or those who require advanced interventions. The presence of nearby specialist networks enhances the overall healthcare ecosystem and contributes to a higher Hypertension Score.

Assessing the quality of care provided by each practice also requires analyzing patient outcomes. This includes tracking blood pressure control rates, medication adherence, and the incidence of hypertension-related complications, such as heart attacks, strokes, and kidney disease. While this type of data can be difficult to obtain, it is essential for a comprehensive evaluation of hypertension management effectiveness. Practices that demonstrate positive patient outcomes would receive higher scores.

In conclusion, the Hypertension Score for doctors in 18925, specifically considering primary care availability in Furlong, is a complex metric influenced by physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. A high score reflects a healthcare environment that prioritizes access to care, utilizes evidence-based practices, and provides comprehensive support for patients with hypertension. To gain a visual understanding of the distribution of these factors, the locations of practices, and other relevant geographical data, consider exploring CartoChrome maps.