35085, Jemison, Alabama Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 35085, Jemison, Alabama is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.49 percent of the residents in 35085 has some form of health insurance. 30.88 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.76 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 35085 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,174 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35085. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,067 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 425 health care providers accessible to residents in 35085, Jemison, Alabama.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 35085 and Primary Care in Jemison

This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of the availability and quality of primary care services, specifically focusing on hypertension management, within ZIP Code 35085 (Clanton, Alabama) and the town of Jemison, Alabama. The goal is to assess the landscape of healthcare resources, identify strengths and weaknesses, and provide insights into potential areas for improvement, with a specific focus on hypertension care.

Understanding the prevalence of hypertension within the target area is crucial. While specific data on 35085 is difficult to obtain, Chilton County, where Clanton and Jemison are located, likely reflects the national trends. Hypertension is a significant public health concern, and access to quality primary care is paramount for its effective management. This analysis considers factors contributing to hypertension control, including physician availability, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health services.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Access:**

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of access to care. A lower ratio (more physicians per capita) generally translates to better access. In rural areas like Jemison and the surrounding areas of 35085, this ratio is often a challenge. The limited number of primary care physicians can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potential difficulties in establishing a consistent patient-physician relationship, all of which can negatively impact hypertension management.

The presence of larger healthcare systems, such as hospitals or multi-specialty clinics, within or near 35085 can positively influence the physician-to-patient ratio. These systems often attract a larger pool of physicians, including specialists who can support primary care providers in managing complex cases of hypertension. However, even with larger systems, geographical barriers can still hinder access for residents of Jemison and other outlying areas.

**Standout Practices and Hypertension Management Strategies:**

Identifying standout practices within 35085 and the surrounding area is essential. These practices often demonstrate best practices in hypertension management, which can include regular blood pressure monitoring, medication management, lifestyle counseling, and patient education. Key indicators of a successful practice include:

* **Patient-centered care:** Practices that prioritize patient education, shared decision-making, and clear communication are more likely to achieve positive outcomes in hypertension control.
* **Evidence-based guidelines:** Practices that adhere to the latest guidelines from organizations like the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology are better equipped to provide effective care.
* **Team-based approach:** The involvement of nurses, medical assistants, and other healthcare professionals in hypertension management can improve efficiency and patient outcomes.
* **Technology integration:** The use of electronic health records (EHRs) and other technologies can streamline workflows, improve data collection, and facilitate communication between patients and providers.

Specific examples of practices that excel in these areas would be invaluable. This could involve identifying clinics with dedicated hypertension management programs, those that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, or those that have received recognition for their patient outcomes.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Impact:**

Telemedicine offers a promising avenue for improving access to care, especially in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in 35085 and Jemison can significantly impact hypertension management. Telemedicine can facilitate:

* **Remote blood pressure monitoring:** Patients can monitor their blood pressure at home and transmit the data to their physician, allowing for more frequent and proactive adjustments to medication or lifestyle recommendations.
* **Virtual consultations:** Patients can have virtual appointments with their physician, reducing the need for travel and improving convenience.
* **Medication management:** Telemedicine can be used to review medication adherence, address side effects, and make necessary adjustments to treatment plans.
* **Patient education:** Telemedicine platforms can be used to deliver educational materials and provide support for lifestyle modifications, such as diet and exercise.

The level of telemedicine adoption varies across practices. Some practices may offer only basic telehealth services, such as phone consultations, while others may have implemented more advanced platforms that include video conferencing, remote monitoring, and patient portals. The extent to which telemedicine is integrated into the overall care delivery model is also important. Practices that seamlessly integrate telemedicine into their workflows are more likely to realize its full potential.

**Mental Health Resources and Hypertension:**

The link between mental health and hypertension is well-established. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can contribute to elevated blood pressure and make it more difficult to manage hypertension. Therefore, the integration of mental health services into primary care is crucial for comprehensive hypertension management.

The availability of mental health resources in 35085 and Jemison is a significant factor. This includes:

* **Access to mental health professionals:** The presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors in the area is essential.
* **Integration of mental health services within primary care:** Practices that offer on-site mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health providers are better positioned to address the mental health needs of their patients with hypertension.
* **Education and awareness:** Primary care providers should be trained to recognize the signs and symptoms of mental health conditions and to educate their patients about the importance of mental health.

The absence of adequate mental health resources can hinder hypertension control. Patients with untreated mental health conditions may be less likely to adhere to their medication regimens, engage in healthy lifestyle behaviors, and attend follow-up appointments.

**Conclusion and Call to Action:**

The landscape of primary care within 35085 and Jemison presents both opportunities and challenges for hypertension management. While the specific physician-to-patient ratio and the availability of specialized services may be limited in a rural setting, the adoption of telemedicine and the integration of mental health resources can significantly improve access to care and patient outcomes. Identifying and supporting standout practices that prioritize patient-centered care, evidence-based guidelines, and team-based approaches is crucial.

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare resources available in 35085 and Jemison, including the location of primary care practices, the availability of telemedicine services, and the presence of mental health providers, consider using **CartoChrome maps**. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of healthcare resources, allowing for a more informed assessment of the landscape and identifying areas where improvements are needed.