19139, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 19139, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.94 percent of the residents in 19139 has some form of health insurance. 55.79 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 47.99 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 19139 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 11,761 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 512 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19139. An estimate of 90 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,436 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 96,031 health care providers accessible to residents in 19139, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Philadelphia Primary Care (ZIP Code 19139)

This analysis delves into the landscape of primary care within Philadelphia, specifically focusing on ZIP code 19139, and assesses its capacity to effectively manage hypertension. The evaluation considers physician-to-patient ratios, identifies standout practices, examines telemedicine adoption, and explores the availability of mental health resources, all critical components in providing comprehensive hypertension care. The goal is to offer an informed perspective on the resources available to residents in this area for managing this prevalent condition.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a fundamental indicator of access to care. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially, less effective management of chronic conditions like hypertension. In ZIP code 19139, the physician-to-patient ratio likely fluctuates, influenced by factors like the presence of large hospital systems, community health centers, and private practices. Publicly available data from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or the Pennsylvania Department of Health would be essential to determine the exact figures for this specific area. A concerning ratio could signal a need for increased recruitment of primary care physicians or the expansion of existing practices.

Identifying standout practices is crucial. These are the clinics and individual physicians that consistently demonstrate excellence in hypertension management. This involves several factors: proactive screening protocols, patient education programs, medication adherence support, and a commitment to evidence-based guidelines. Evaluating practices would require a review of patient outcomes, patient satisfaction surveys, and adherence to established clinical pathways. Practices utilizing electronic health records (EHRs) effectively to track patient data, monitor blood pressure readings, and provide timely reminders for medication refills and follow-up appointments are likely to perform better. Practices that integrate a team-based approach, involving nurses, medical assistants, and potentially pharmacists, can also enhance care delivery.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly relevant, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Telemedicine offers the potential to improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in underserved areas. For hypertension management, telemedicine can facilitate remote blood pressure monitoring, virtual consultations, medication adjustments, and patient education. The extent of telemedicine adoption among primary care providers in 19139 is a key factor. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring capabilities, are likely to provide more accessible and convenient care. This adoption rate is influenced by factors such as internet access availability in the community, physician training, and reimbursement policies from insurance providers.

The integration of mental health resources is another critical aspect of comprehensive hypertension care. The link between mental health and cardiovascular health is well-established. Stress, anxiety, and depression can contribute to elevated blood pressure and negatively impact treatment adherence. Primary care practices that offer or have readily available access to mental health services, such as counseling, therapy, or psychiatric consultations, are better equipped to address the holistic needs of patients with hypertension. This may involve on-site mental health professionals, partnerships with local mental health providers, or the use of telehealth platforms to connect patients with mental health specialists.

Primary care availability in Philadelphia is a broader concern. While ZIP code 19139 is the specific focus, the overall healthcare infrastructure of the city influences access to care within this area. The presence of major hospital systems, such as the University of Pennsylvania Health System, Temple Health, and Jefferson Health, plays a significant role. These systems often operate primary care practices and can provide specialized support for patients with complex medical needs. The distribution of these resources throughout the city, however, is not always equitable. Areas with a higher concentration of underserved populations may face greater challenges in accessing primary care.

Community health centers are particularly important in underserved areas. These centers often provide affordable and accessible care to low-income individuals and families. They typically offer a range of services, including primary care, preventive care, and chronic disease management. The presence and capacity of community health centers in 19139 and their ability to effectively manage hypertension are essential factors in assessing the overall quality of care. Their success often depends on adequate funding, staffing, and the implementation of evidence-based practices.

Addressing the challenges of hypertension management requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes improving access to primary care, promoting patient education, encouraging healthy lifestyle choices, and ensuring that patients have access to the medications and resources they need. Public health initiatives, such as community-based screening programs and awareness campaigns, can also play a vital role. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and government agencies is crucial to create a supportive environment for patients with hypertension.

The evaluation of hypertension management in 19139 must consider the social determinants of health. Factors such as socioeconomic status, access to healthy food, safe housing, and environmental conditions can significantly impact blood pressure control. Primary care providers need to be aware of these factors and address them as part of their patient care. This may involve connecting patients with social services, providing referrals for food assistance, and advocating for policies that promote health equity.

This analysis provides a framework for understanding the complexities of hypertension management in 19139 and Philadelphia. Further investigation, including data collection and analysis, is necessary to provide a more detailed assessment. This would involve gathering information on physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, evaluating telemedicine adoption rates, and assessing the availability of mental health resources.

Ready to visualize the healthcare landscape in 19139 and beyond? Explore the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, analyze physician density, and identify areas with unmet needs using interactive maps. **Click here to explore CartoChrome maps** and gain valuable insights into the accessibility and availability of primary care in Philadelphia.