19034, Fort Washington, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 19034, Fort Washington, Pennsylvania is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.63 percent of the residents in 19034 has some form of health insurance. 24.25 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.32 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 19034 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,702 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19034. An estimate of 42 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,229 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 38,778 health care providers accessible to residents in 19034, Fort Washington, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Fort Washington, PA (ZIP Code 19034)

This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of hypertension care within ZIP Code 19034 (Fort Washington, PA), focusing on primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and integration of mental health resources. The ultimate goal is to assess the quality of care provided to residents managing or at risk of hypertension, culminating in a call to action to utilize CartoChrome maps for further exploration.

Fort Washington, a suburban community in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, presents a unique healthcare landscape. The area benefits from its proximity to major medical centers in Philadelphia while also maintaining a network of local primary care providers. Understanding the nuances of this environment is crucial for evaluating the accessibility and quality of hypertension management.

**Primary Care Availability:**

The foundation of effective hypertension care rests upon accessible primary care. Analyzing the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) in 19034 involves examining the number of practicing PCPs relative to the population. Data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and professional medical directories must be cross-referenced to determine the physician-to-patient ratio. A lower ratio indicates a greater availability of PCPs, potentially leading to more frequent check-ups, proactive screening, and improved patient management. This analysis considers the types of PCPs available, including family medicine, internal medicine, and geriatric specialists, as each may cater to different patient needs and age groups.

Furthermore, the analysis assesses the geographic distribution of primary care practices within the ZIP code. Are practices clustered in certain areas, leaving others underserved? This spatial analysis helps identify potential gaps in access, particularly for residents with limited transportation options or those residing in more remote sections of Fort Washington.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios:**

Beyond the simple count of PCPs, the physician-to-patient ratio provides a more granular understanding of access. Calculating this ratio requires accurate population data for 19034, combined with the number of actively practicing PCPs. A desirable ratio allows physicians to dedicate sufficient time to each patient, fostering a more thorough assessment of risk factors, lifestyle counseling, medication management, and regular monitoring of blood pressure.

A high physician-to-patient ratio might indicate that physicians are overburdened, potentially leading to shorter appointment times, reduced opportunities for patient education, and a higher likelihood of missed diagnoses or delayed interventions. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater availability and potentially better outcomes. This analysis will compare the physician-to-patient ratio in 19034 with regional and national averages to benchmark the local healthcare environment.

**Standout Practices:**

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several key indicators of quality hypertension care. This includes assessing the practice's adherence to evidence-based guidelines for hypertension management, such as those established by the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology. Key metrics to analyze are the percentage of patients with controlled blood pressure, the frequency of blood pressure monitoring, the use of appropriate medication protocols, and the provision of patient education materials.

Practices that excel in these areas often demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, utilizing electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient progress and facilitate communication. They may also offer extended hours, weekend appointments, or same-day appointments to enhance accessibility. Furthermore, practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives and demonstrate a track record of positive patient outcomes are considered exemplary.

**Telemedicine Adoption:**

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for managing chronic conditions like hypertension, particularly in areas with potential access challenges. This analysis examines the extent of telemedicine adoption among primary care practices in 19034. This involves evaluating whether practices offer virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and online patient portals.

Telemedicine can facilitate more frequent check-ins, improve medication adherence, and provide timely interventions, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in areas with limited access to in-person care. The analysis will assess the types of telemedicine platforms used, the availability of technical support for patients, and the integration of telemedicine into the overall care plan. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their hypertension management programs are considered to be at the forefront of patient care.

**Mental Health Resources:**

The link between mental health and hypertension is well-established. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can contribute to elevated blood pressure and hinder effective management. This analysis investigates the availability of mental health resources for patients with hypertension in 19034.

This includes assessing whether primary care practices offer on-site mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals. The analysis will also examine the availability of mental health support groups, educational programs, and resources for managing stress and anxiety. Practices that recognize the importance of mental health in hypertension management and provide integrated care are considered to be providing a more holistic approach to patient well-being.

**Conclusion:**

This comprehensive analysis provides a snapshot of hypertension care within ZIP Code 19034. By evaluating primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, this analysis offers a valuable assessment of the healthcare landscape. The findings will inform residents and healthcare providers alike, highlighting areas of strength and identifying opportunities for improvement.

To further explore the data and gain a more detailed understanding of the healthcare environment in Fort Washington, we encourage you to utilize CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps provide a powerful visualization tool, allowing you to analyze geographic patterns, identify healthcare resources, and gain a deeper understanding of the factors impacting hypertension care in your community.