19026, Drexel Hill, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 19026, Drexel Hill, Pennsylvania is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.35 percent of the residents in 19026 has some form of health insurance. 28.36 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.68 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 19026 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,889 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19026. An estimate of 31 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,629 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 33,993 health care providers accessible to residents in 19026, Drexel Hill, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Drexel Hill, PA (ZIP Code 19026)

Drexel Hill, Pennsylvania, nestled in Delaware County, presents a unique landscape for assessing hypertension management and primary care accessibility. This analysis, focused on ZIP code 19026, aims to provide a "Hypertension Score" assessment, considering factors like physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources. The ultimate goal is to paint a comprehensive picture of the resources available to patients in managing this pervasive health concern.

The foundation of any hypertension management strategy lies in access to primary care physicians. Analyzing the physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. In 19026, the availability of primary care physicians, including internal medicine doctors and family practitioners, dictates the accessibility of initial screenings, ongoing monitoring, and medication management. A higher ratio, indicating more patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced time spent per patient, affecting the quality of care. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests better access and potentially more individualized attention. Data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and publicly available databases of physician listings, combined with population estimates for the zip code, are essential for calculating this ratio. It’s vital to note that the actual number of available physicians can fluctuate, influenced by factors like retirement, relocation, and the influx of new practitioners.

Beyond the raw numbers, the operational characteristics of primary care practices are critical. Some practices may stand out due to their commitment to hypertension management. These "standout practices" often implement evidence-based protocols, such as the use of automated blood pressure monitoring systems, standardized medication guidelines, and patient education programs. They might also have dedicated staff, like nurses or medical assistants, specifically trained in hypertension management. These practices are often characterized by their focus on patient education, providing resources on lifestyle modifications like diet and exercise, and emphasizing the importance of medication adherence. Furthermore, they may actively track patient outcomes, using data to refine their approach and improve patient outcomes. Identifying these standout practices requires a detailed analysis of practice websites, patient reviews, and potentially, direct outreach to healthcare providers in the area.

The integration of telemedicine has significantly reshaped healthcare delivery, especially concerning chronic conditions like hypertension. Telemedicine offers the potential for remote blood pressure monitoring, virtual consultations, and medication management, particularly beneficial for patients with mobility limitations or those living in areas with limited access to in-person care. Assessing telemedicine adoption in 19026 involves examining the availability of virtual appointments, the use of remote monitoring devices, and the integration of telehealth platforms into existing practice workflows. Practices that embrace telemedicine can potentially improve patient adherence to treatment plans and reduce the frequency of in-person visits, thereby improving patient outcomes and reducing the burden on the healthcare system. The success of telemedicine, however, depends on factors like patient access to technology, digital literacy, and the availability of reliable internet connectivity.

The connection between mental health and hypertension is increasingly recognized. Chronic stress and anxiety can contribute to elevated blood pressure, while the diagnosis and treatment of hypertension can also impact mental well-being. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources in 19026 is a crucial component of the "Hypertension Score." This involves assessing the availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors within the community. Furthermore, the integration of mental health services into primary care practices is a key factor. Practices that offer on-site mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals are better equipped to address the holistic needs of patients with hypertension. Assessing the integration of mental health services requires evaluating practice websites, reviewing patient feedback, and potentially conducting interviews with healthcare providers.

Evaluating the availability of ancillary services is also important. This includes access to registered dietitians, certified diabetes educators, and exercise specialists. These professionals can provide patients with the support and education needed to make lifestyle modifications that can help manage hypertension. The presence of pharmacies within the community is also important, as it ensures that patients have easy access to their medications.

The “Hypertension Score” for 19026 would be a composite measure, reflecting the combined impact of all these factors. It’s not just about the number of doctors, but also about the quality of care, the integration of technology, the availability of mental health resources, and the support provided for lifestyle modifications. A higher score would indicate a more favorable environment for managing hypertension, while a lower score would highlight areas for improvement. The score could be presented on a scale, with specific criteria weighted according to their impact on patient outcomes.

The overall assessment would also consider the demographics of the population in 19026. Factors like age, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status can influence the prevalence of hypertension and the ability of patients to access care. Understanding the demographic profile of the community is essential for tailoring interventions and ensuring that resources are allocated effectively.

Ultimately, the goal of this analysis is to provide a comprehensive assessment of the resources available for managing hypertension in Drexel Hill. By considering the physician-to-patient ratio, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and other relevant factors, this analysis offers a valuable insight into the healthcare landscape.

To further explore the healthcare landscape in Drexel Hill, PA (ZIP Code 19026), and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, including the locations of primary care physicians, pharmacies, and mental health providers, we recommend using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful platform for visualizing geographic data, enabling you to gain a deeper understanding of the accessibility and distribution of healthcare services in your community.