35010, Alexander City, Alabama Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 35010, Alexander City, Alabama is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.72 percent of the residents in 35010 has some form of health insurance. 42.21 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.53 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 35010 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,809 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35010. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,844 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 384 health care providers accessible to residents in 35010, Alexander City, Alabama.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Alexander City (ZIP Code 35010)

This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of hypertension management resources and primary care accessibility within Alexander City, Alabama (ZIP Code 35010). It aims to generate a "Hypertension Score" reflecting the community's capacity to effectively address this prevalent health concern. The score will be derived from an evaluation of factors including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in managing hypertension.

The foundation of effective hypertension management rests on readily available primary care. In Alexander City, assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is paramount. Data from sources like the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners and the US Census Bureau will be cross-referenced to determine the number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the ZIP code. This figure will then be compared to the estimated population of 35010. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally translates to better access to care. However, simply knowing the ratio isn't enough.

The quality of care offered by these physicians is equally important. We will identify standout practices within Alexander City. This assessment will consider factors like patient reviews, the use of evidence-based guidelines for hypertension treatment (e.g., guidelines from the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology), and the availability of ancillary services such as on-site blood pressure monitoring, dietary counseling, and pharmacy services. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient education, proactive screening, and aggressive blood pressure control will be recognized. This includes evaluating the use of electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient progress and facilitate communication.

Telemedicine adoption is a critical component of modern healthcare, particularly in rural areas like Alexander City. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, improving access to care, especially for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. The analysis will determine the extent to which primary care physicians in 35010 utilize telemedicine for hypertension management. This includes assessing the availability of virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring programs, and the use of telehealth platforms for patient education and medication management. Practices embracing telemedicine will receive a higher score, recognizing their commitment to improving patient access.

The relationship between hypertension and mental health is well-established. Chronic stress and anxiety can significantly impact blood pressure control. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within Alexander City is a crucial factor in the overall Hypertension Score. This analysis will assess the presence of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed counselors, who are accessible to patients within the ZIP code. We will also evaluate the integration of mental health services into primary care practices, such as the availability of on-site therapists or referral programs. Practices that recognize the importance of mental health and provide access to these services will be viewed favorably.

Another aspect of the analysis will be the availability of resources for patient education. Effective hypertension management requires patients to be active participants in their care. The analysis will assess the availability of educational materials, such as brochures, online resources, and group classes, that empower patients to understand their condition, monitor their blood pressure, and make lifestyle modifications. Practices that prioritize patient education and provide resources to support self-management will be considered to be doing a good job.

The analysis will also consider the presence of community resources that support hypertension management. This includes the availability of affordable medications, access to healthy food options, and opportunities for physical activity. Partnerships between healthcare providers and community organizations, such as local YMCA branches or food banks, will be viewed as positive indicators of a comprehensive approach to hypertension care.

The final Hypertension Score will be a composite metric, reflecting the weighted average of the factors discussed above. Each factor will be assigned a specific weight based on its relative importance in hypertension management. For example, physician-to-patient ratio and the use of evidence-based guidelines might carry a higher weight than the availability of online educational materials. The resulting score will provide a quantifiable assessment of the community's capacity to effectively address hypertension.

It's important to acknowledge that this analysis is a snapshot in time. Healthcare landscapes are constantly evolving. The information gathered will be based on the most current data available. The analysis will be updated periodically to reflect changes in physician availability, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources.

The goal is to provide a valuable tool for residents of Alexander City, healthcare providers, and policymakers. The Hypertension Score can be used to identify areas of strength and weakness in the community's approach to hypertension management. This information can then be used to inform strategic planning, resource allocation, and the development of targeted interventions to improve patient outcomes.

Furthermore, the analysis will provide insights into the challenges and opportunities facing primary care providers in Alexander City. By highlighting best practices and identifying areas for improvement, the analysis can contribute to a more effective and patient-centered healthcare system.

In conclusion, this comprehensive analysis will provide a detailed assessment of the hypertension management resources available in Alexander City, AL (35010). The resulting Hypertension Score will serve as a valuable tool for understanding the community's capacity to address this critical health concern.

To visualize the distribution of physicians, access to care, and other relevant data points related to hypertension management in Alexander City, AL, consider exploring the dynamic mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can help you visualize the data, identify areas of need, and make informed decisions about healthcare resource allocation.