19021, Croydon, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 19021, Croydon, Pennsylvania is 99 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.34 percent of the residents in 19021 has some form of health insurance. 37.25 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.02 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 19021 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,315 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19021. An estimate of 33 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,203 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 23,999 health care providers accessible to residents in 19021, Croydon, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Croydon, PA (ZIP Code 19021)

Analyzing the landscape of hypertension management within Croydon, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 19021) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians, assess physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, explore the adoption of telemedicine, and evaluate the integration of mental health resources. The goal is to create a "Hypertension Score" reflecting the overall quality and accessibility of care for individuals managing or at risk of developing hypertension in this specific area.

The foundation of effective hypertension management lies in accessible primary care. Croydon, like many suburban communities, likely faces challenges in physician availability. While precise numbers fluctuate, a general assessment indicates a potential shortage of primary care physicians relative to the population. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced opportunities for preventative care, and ultimately, poorer control of hypertension. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. Ideally, a lower ratio (fewer patients per physician) indicates better access. However, factors such as physician specialization (e.g., internal medicine vs. family practice), practice size, and insurance acceptance significantly impact this ratio's practical implications.

Standout practices in the area will be those that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive hypertension management. This includes not only accurate diagnosis and medication management but also proactive patient education, lifestyle counseling, and regular follow-up appointments. Practices that actively engage in patient outreach, such as offering reminders for medication refills and blood pressure checks, will likely achieve better patient outcomes. Additionally, practices that embrace a team-based approach, involving nurses, medical assistants, and possibly pharmacists, can provide more holistic and efficient care. These practices often have established protocols for hypertension management, adhering to the latest clinical guidelines and using data to track patient progress.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important in hypertension care. Remote blood pressure monitoring, virtual consultations, and digital patient education tools can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations, transportation challenges, or busy schedules. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their workflows can offer more frequent monitoring, enabling quicker adjustments to medication and lifestyle interventions. The ability to remotely transmit blood pressure readings allows physicians to monitor patient progress and intervene as needed, potentially preventing complications.

The crucial link between hypertension and mental health cannot be ignored. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure control. Practices that recognize this connection and offer or connect patients with mental health resources demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive care. This might involve on-site therapists, partnerships with mental health providers, or integrated screening for mental health conditions. Addressing the psychological factors that contribute to hypertension can improve patient adherence to treatment plans and ultimately lead to better health outcomes.

A "Hypertension Score" for Croydon (19021) would be derived from several factors. These include the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the extent of telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. Each factor would be assigned a weight based on its relative importance. For example, the physician-to-patient ratio and the presence of standout practices might be weighted more heavily than the adoption of telemedicine, although all are essential. The final score would reflect the overall quality and accessibility of hypertension care in the area, providing a valuable tool for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers.

Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio requires data from various sources, including the Pennsylvania Department of Health, the American Medical Association, and insurance provider databases. Analyzing the practices' commitment to hypertension management necessitates reviewing their websites, patient reviews, and possibly conducting site visits or surveys. Evaluating telemedicine adoption involves examining practice websites, interviewing physicians, and reviewing patient records. Assessing mental health integration requires understanding the availability of mental health providers in the area and identifying practices that actively connect patients with these resources.

The analysis should also consider socioeconomic factors that can impact hypertension management. These include the prevalence of health insurance, the availability of affordable medications, and the access to healthy food options. Areas with higher rates of poverty and food insecurity often face greater challenges in managing hypertension. Addressing these social determinants of health is crucial for improving overall health outcomes.

In conclusion, Croydon (19021) presents a complex landscape for hypertension management. While specific challenges exist, the presence of dedicated healthcare providers and the potential for telemedicine adoption offer opportunities for improvement. A comprehensive analysis, incorporating physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine integration, and mental health resources, is essential for developing a meaningful "Hypertension Score" and guiding efforts to improve the health of the community.

For a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Croydon and surrounding areas, including the location of primary care physicians, pharmacies, and other relevant resources, consider exploring CartoChrome maps.