19036, Glenolden, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 19036, Glenolden, Pennsylvania is 99 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.20 percent of the residents in 19036 has some form of health insurance. 37.37 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.72 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 19036 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,837 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19036. An estimate of 40 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,075 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 35,117 health care providers accessible to residents in 19036, Glenolden, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Glenolden, PA (ZIP Code 19036)

Analyzing the landscape of hypertension management in Glenolden, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 19036) requires a multi-faceted approach, considering physician availability, practice methodologies, and the integration of supportive resources. This analysis aims to provide a "Hypertension Score" assessment, evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem in addressing this prevalent health concern.

The foundation of effective hypertension management lies in accessible primary care. Glenolden, being a relatively small community, presents both opportunities and challenges in this regard. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment initiation. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater access to care. While precise, up-to-the-minute physician-to-patient ratios are often dynamic and require constant monitoring, publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) or local health departments can offer valuable insights. These sources can reveal the number of active primary care physicians (PCPs) practicing within the 19036 ZIP code and the estimated population served.

Beyond raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs is crucial. Are they clustered in a single practice, or are they spread across multiple locations, ensuring geographic accessibility for residents? Analyzing the proximity of practices to residential areas, public transportation, and senior living facilities can provide a more nuanced understanding of access. Furthermore, the availability of same-day or next-day appointments is a key indicator of a practice's responsiveness to patient needs, particularly for those experiencing acute hypertension symptoms or requiring urgent medication adjustments.

Several practices in Glenolden may stand out in their approach to hypertension management. Identifying these "standout practices" requires a deeper dive. Factors to consider include the use of electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient data management and patient monitoring. EHR systems facilitate the tracking of blood pressure readings, medication adherence, and lifestyle modifications, enabling physicians to make data-driven decisions. The presence of registered nurses (RNs) or certified medical assistants (CMAs) dedicated to hypertension management can also be a positive indicator. These healthcare professionals can provide patient education, monitor blood pressure, and offer support for lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. Telehealth services, including virtual consultations and remote blood pressure monitoring, can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Practices that offer telemedicine options can provide more frequent monitoring, medication adjustments, and patient education, leading to better blood pressure control. Examining the availability of virtual appointments, remote blood pressure monitoring devices, and online patient portals can provide insights into the level of telemedicine integration within local practices.

The link between hypertension and mental health is well-established. Chronic stress and anxiety can contribute to elevated blood pressure, and effective hypertension management often requires addressing underlying mental health issues. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the community is a crucial component of the "Hypertension Score." This includes access to mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists. The presence of integrated behavioral health services within primary care practices, where mental health professionals work alongside PCPs, is particularly beneficial. This integrated approach facilitates early identification of mental health concerns and allows for seamless referrals and coordinated care. Additionally, the availability of support groups, stress management programs, and mental health resources within the community can contribute to a more holistic approach to hypertension management.

The quality of patient education materials is also essential. Practices that provide clear, concise, and culturally sensitive educational materials on hypertension, including information on medication, lifestyle modifications, and self-monitoring techniques, are more likely to empower patients to actively participate in their care. The use of multilingual materials is particularly important in a diverse community like Glenolden. Practices that offer educational resources in multiple languages can ensure that all patients have access to the information they need to manage their condition effectively.

Another element to consider is the practice's approach to patient-centered care. Does the practice prioritize shared decision-making, where patients are actively involved in developing their treatment plans? Does the practice offer extended appointment times for patients who need more time to discuss their concerns? Practices that prioritize patient-centered care are more likely to build strong relationships with their patients, leading to improved adherence to treatment plans and better health outcomes.

The availability of specialized services, such as cardiology consultations and access to diagnostic testing (e.g., echocardiograms, stress tests), is also relevant. While primary care physicians are the cornerstone of hypertension management, access to specialists is essential for patients with complex cases or those who require further evaluation. Analyzing the proximity of cardiology practices and diagnostic facilities to Glenolden residents can provide insights into the availability of these services.

Finally, the "Hypertension Score" should consider the practice's commitment to continuous quality improvement. Does the practice regularly monitor its performance in hypertension management, tracking metrics such as blood pressure control rates and medication adherence? Does the practice participate in quality improvement initiatives, such as those offered by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) or the American Medical Association (AMA)? Practices that are committed to continuous improvement are more likely to provide high-quality care and achieve better health outcomes.

In conclusion, assessing the "Hypertension Score" for Glenolden (19036) requires a comprehensive evaluation of physician availability, practice methodologies, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and patient education initiatives. While a definitive score necessitates detailed data analysis, understanding these key factors provides a valuable framework for evaluating the local healthcare ecosystem's capacity to effectively manage hypertension.

To visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, physician locations, and access points within Glenolden and surrounding areas, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome can provide an interactive and data-rich visualization of the healthcare landscape, allowing you to identify areas of strength and potential gaps in care.