18942, Ottsville, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 18942, Ottsville, Pennsylvania is 96 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.87 percent of the residents in 18942 has some form of health insurance. 44.52 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.25 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 18942 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 242 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18942. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 985 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 9,014 health care providers accessible to residents in 18942, Ottsville, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Ottsville, PA (ZIP Code 18942)

Ottsville, Pennsylvania, nestled within the 18942 ZIP code, presents a unique challenge for healthcare providers. This rural community, characterized by its relative isolation and aging population, necessitates a focused analysis of hypertension management and primary care accessibility. This analysis aims to provide a "Hypertension Score" assessment, examining key factors influencing the quality of care available to residents, with a specific emphasis on primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources.

The foundation of effective hypertension management lies in accessible primary care. Ottsville's geographical constraints significantly impact this. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) within the immediate vicinity is a critical determinant of the "Hypertension Score." A low concentration of PCPs directly translates to longer wait times for appointments, potentially hindering timely diagnosis and treatment initiation for individuals with elevated blood pressure. This scarcity forces residents to travel further for care, adding another layer of complexity for those with limited mobility or transportation options.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a crucial metric. A high ratio, indicating a smaller number of physicians serving a larger population, can overwhelm existing practices. This can lead to reduced appointment durations, decreased opportunities for comprehensive patient education, and ultimately, poorer blood pressure control. The "Hypertension Score" will be negatively affected by high physician-to-patient ratios, highlighting the need for strategies to address this imbalance. This might involve incentivizing new physicians to practice in the area or exploring innovative care models.

Identifying standout practices within the 18942 ZIP code is crucial. Practices demonstrating a commitment to hypertension management, through evidence-based protocols, patient education programs, and proactive follow-up, will receive higher marks in the "Hypertension Score." These practices should be recognized for their commitment to patient well-being. Success stories should be documented and shared to inspire other providers to adopt similar best practices.

Telemedicine adoption offers a promising avenue to improve access to care, especially in rural areas like Ottsville. Practices embracing telemedicine can extend their reach, providing virtual consultations, medication management, and remote monitoring capabilities. This can be particularly beneficial for patients with hypertension, enabling them to receive regular check-ins and support without the need for frequent in-person visits. The "Hypertension Score" will reward practices actively integrating telemedicine into their care delivery models.

The intricate link between hypertension and mental health must be acknowledged. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure control. Therefore, the integration of mental health resources within primary care settings is paramount. Practices that offer on-site mental health services, or have established strong referral networks with mental health professionals, will receive higher marks in the "Hypertension Score." This integrated approach ensures that patients receive holistic care, addressing both their physical and mental well-being.

The "Hypertension Score" will also evaluate the availability of patient education materials and resources. Practices that provide patients with comprehensive information about hypertension, including lifestyle modifications, medication management, and self-monitoring techniques, will be favored. This empowerment of patients is crucial for long-term blood pressure control and overall health outcomes.

The analysis will also consider the use of electronic health records (EHRs). Practices utilizing EHRs effectively can streamline patient care, improve communication among providers, and facilitate data-driven decision-making. The "Hypertension Score" will recognize the importance of EHR adoption and the utilization of data analytics to track patient outcomes and identify areas for improvement.

Furthermore, the analysis will consider the availability of specialized services, such as cardiology and endocrinology, within a reasonable distance. Patients with complex hypertension often require access to specialists. The proximity of these services will influence the "Hypertension Score," reflecting the importance of a comprehensive healthcare ecosystem.

The "Hypertension Score" will be a dynamic assessment, regularly updated to reflect changes in healthcare delivery and patient outcomes. This ongoing evaluation will provide valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of hypertension management in Ottsville, PA, and inform strategies for improvement.

The ultimate goal of this analysis is to provide a clear picture of the healthcare landscape in Ottsville, PA, and to identify opportunities to improve the quality of care for residents with hypertension. By focusing on primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, mental health integration, and other key factors, the "Hypertension Score" will serve as a valuable tool for patients, providers, and policymakers.

For a visual representation of this healthcare landscape, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and resource availability, we encourage you to explore the power of spatial data analysis. CartoChrome maps can provide a comprehensive, interactive view of the healthcare resources in Ottsville and surrounding areas. **Visit CartoChrome today to unlock the power of location intelligence and gain a deeper understanding of healthcare accessibility in your community.**