35072, Goodwater, Alabama Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 35072, Goodwater, Alabama is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.53 percent of the residents in 35072 has some form of health insurance. 45.44 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.03 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 35072 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,225 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35072. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,086 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 45 health care providers accessible to residents in 35072, Goodwater, Alabama.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Goodwater, Alabama (ZIP Code 35072)

Analyzing the healthcare landscape within Goodwater, Alabama (ZIP Code 35072) requires a multi-faceted approach, particularly when assessing the accessibility and quality of care for individuals managing hypertension. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians, evaluate the physician-to-patient ratio, highlight standout practices, explore the adoption of telemedicine, and assess the integration of mental health resources – all crucial components for effective hypertension management.

Goodwater, a rural community, likely faces challenges common to such areas, including physician shortages and limited access to specialized care. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced preventative care, and potentially poorer outcomes for patients with chronic conditions like hypertension. Determining the precise ratio requires accessing data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and the Alabama Department of Public Health. This data would reveal the number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the ZIP code and the estimated population served. A higher ratio necessitates strategies to improve access, such as recruiting new physicians or expanding the scope of practice for existing healthcare providers.

Identifying standout practices in Goodwater is essential. These practices might demonstrate superior patient outcomes, employ innovative approaches to care, or offer comprehensive services tailored to hypertension management. Factors to consider include the availability of on-site diagnostic tools (e.g., blood pressure monitors, ECG machines), adherence to evidence-based guidelines for hypertension treatment, and patient education programs. Practices that actively monitor patient adherence to medication regimens, provide lifestyle counseling (diet, exercise), and offer regular follow-up appointments are more likely to achieve positive results. Reviews from patients, available through online platforms or local surveys, can also provide valuable insights into patient satisfaction and the quality of care.

Telemedicine adoption is particularly relevant in rural communities. Telemedicine offers a means to overcome geographical barriers and improve access to care. For hypertension management, telemedicine can facilitate remote blood pressure monitoring, virtual consultations with physicians, and medication management. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are likely to experience improved patient engagement, reduced hospital readmissions, and better control of blood pressure levels. Assessing the level of telemedicine integration requires examining the availability of virtual appointment options, the use of remote monitoring devices, and the integration of telemedicine platforms into the practice's workflow.

The integration of mental health resources is another crucial factor. Hypertension and mental health are often interconnected. Stress, anxiety, and depression can exacerbate hypertension, while the diagnosis and management of hypertension can also contribute to mental health challenges. Practices that offer on-site mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals are better equipped to provide holistic care. This can involve screening patients for mental health conditions, providing counseling services, or collaborating with psychiatrists to manage complex cases.

To effectively assess primary care availability, it's necessary to investigate the types of primary care providers available. Are there family medicine physicians, internal medicine specialists, or nurse practitioners providing care? The presence of a diverse range of providers can improve access and cater to the varying needs of the community. The availability of after-hours care or urgent care services is also important. Patients with uncontrolled hypertension may require immediate medical attention, and access to timely care can prevent serious complications.

Furthermore, evaluating the availability of specialists, such as cardiologists and nephrologists, is essential. While primary care physicians are the first point of contact for hypertension management, patients with complex cases or those who are not responding to initial treatment may require referral to a specialist. The proximity of specialists and the ease of referral pathways are critical factors in ensuring patients receive the appropriate level of care.

Analyzing the demographics of the population in Goodwater is also relevant. Understanding the age distribution, socioeconomic status, and prevalence of comorbidities can help tailor healthcare services to the specific needs of the community. For example, a community with a large elderly population may require more resources for geriatric care and medication management.

In conclusion, a comprehensive 'Hypertension Score' analysis for Goodwater (35072) requires a thorough examination of physician-to-patient ratios, the identification of standout practices, the assessment of telemedicine adoption, and the evaluation of mental health resource integration. This analysis should also consider the availability of specialists, the types of primary care providers, and the demographics of the population. This information is crucial for understanding the current state of hypertension care and identifying areas for improvement.

For a detailed, visually driven map of physician locations, practice details, and other relevant healthcare data within Goodwater and surrounding areas, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful tool for visualizing and analyzing healthcare data, enabling you to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape and make informed decisions.