19027, Elkins Park, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 19027, Elkins Park, Pennsylvania is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.34 percent of the residents in 19027 has some form of health insurance. 30.86 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.72 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 19027 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,176 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19027. An estimate of 33 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,588 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 37,440 health care providers accessible to residents in 19027, Elkins Park, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Elkins Park (ZIP Code 19027)

Analyzing the landscape of hypertension care in Elkins Park, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 19027) necessitates a multifaceted approach. This analysis, a "Hypertension Score" assessment, considers various factors impacting the quality and accessibility of care, specifically focusing on primary care availability and the resources available to manage hypertension effectively. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement within the local healthcare ecosystem. This analysis is not a definitive ranking, but rather an informed assessment based on publicly available data and industry best practices.

The foundation of effective hypertension management lies in accessible primary care. Elkins Park, a suburb of Philadelphia, benefits from its proximity to a major metropolitan area, which generally translates to a higher concentration of healthcare providers compared to more rural regions. However, simply having a higher number of physicians doesn't guarantee optimal care. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. While precise figures require granular data, we can infer from regional averages that the ratio likely falls within an acceptable range, meaning there are enough physicians to serve the population. However, this is a broad generalization. Specific practices may experience higher patient volumes, potentially impacting appointment availability and the time physicians can dedicate to individual patients.

Standout practices are those that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive hypertension management. These practices often incorporate evidence-based guidelines, such as those provided by the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology. They utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively to track patient progress, monitor blood pressure readings, and ensure timely medication adjustments. They also prioritize patient education, empowering individuals to actively participate in their care through lifestyle modifications, such as diet and exercise. Furthermore, these practices often have dedicated staff, like registered nurses or certified medical assistants, who play a crucial role in patient education and follow-up. Identifying these standout practices requires in-depth research, including reviewing patient testimonials, assessing practice websites for details on their approach to hypertension care, and potentially contacting local health organizations for recommendations.

Telemedicine adoption represents a significant opportunity to enhance hypertension management. Telemedicine allows patients to remotely monitor their blood pressure, communicate with their physicians, and receive virtual consultations. This is particularly beneficial for patients with mobility limitations, those living in areas with limited access to care, or those seeking convenient follow-up appointments. The level of telemedicine adoption in Elkins Park practices varies. Some practices may have fully integrated telemedicine platforms, offering a wide range of virtual services. Others may be in the early stages of adoption, offering limited services or relying on phone calls for communication. The availability of telemedicine services is a crucial factor in the Hypertension Score assessment. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and proactive care.

The interconnectedness of physical and mental health is increasingly recognized. Hypertension is often exacerbated by stress, anxiety, and depression. Therefore, access to mental health resources is a crucial component of comprehensive hypertension care. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through in-house providers or referrals to external specialists, are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients. The availability of mental health resources in Elkins Park is a key consideration. This includes the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and support groups. The ease with which patients can access these resources, including insurance coverage and wait times, significantly impacts the overall Hypertension Score. Practices that actively address the mental health needs of their patients are better positioned to achieve positive outcomes.

Assessing the availability of resources beyond direct medical care is also important. This includes access to pharmacies for medication refills, educational materials on healthy eating and exercise, and community support programs. Pharmacies in Elkins Park are readily accessible, providing patients with convenient access to their medications. The availability of local fitness centers, walking trails, and community gardens can support lifestyle modifications. Furthermore, access to patient education materials in multiple languages is crucial to ensure effective communication with a diverse patient population.

The overall Hypertension Score for Elkins Park reflects a complex interplay of these factors. While the area benefits from its proximity to Philadelphia and a generally favorable physician-to-patient ratio, the specific performance of individual practices varies. Telemedicine adoption, the integration of mental health resources, and a commitment to patient education are key differentiators. The practices that prioritize these aspects will likely achieve better patient outcomes and earn a higher Hypertension Score.

To gain a more granular understanding of the healthcare landscape in Elkins Park and to identify specific practices that excel in hypertension management, consider exploring the CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive visualizations of healthcare data, allowing users to analyze physician locations, practice characteristics, and other relevant information. By utilizing CartoChrome, you can gain a more detailed and data-driven understanding of the resources available to manage hypertension in Elkins Park.