35183, Weogufka, Alabama Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 35183, Weogufka, Alabama is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.84 percent of the residents in 35183 has some form of health insurance. 47.10 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 83.14 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 35183 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 39 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35183. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 358 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 218 health care providers accessible to residents in 35183, Weogufka, Alabama.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Weogufka, AL (ZIP Code 35183)

Analyzing hypertension management within the Weogufka, Alabama (ZIP code 35183) area requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis examines the availability and quality of primary care, focusing on factors that influence hypertension control, including physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a nuanced "Hypertension Score" assessment, highlighting areas of strength and opportunities for improvement.

The foundation of effective hypertension management rests on accessible and quality primary care. The physician-to-patient ratio in Weogufka is a critical starting point. A low ratio, indicating a limited number of physicians serving a larger population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and ultimately, less effective disease management. Conversely, a higher ratio allows for more personalized care, proactive interventions, and better patient outcomes. Publicly available data from sources like the U.S. Census Bureau and the Alabama Department of Public Health should be consulted to establish a baseline physician-to-patient ratio within the ZIP code. This ratio serves as a foundational element in the Hypertension Score, with a higher ratio contributing positively to the overall assessment.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care practices is paramount. Identifying "standout practices" involves evaluating several factors. These include the adoption of evidence-based guidelines for hypertension management, the use of electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient data tracking and analysis, and the implementation of patient-centered care models. Practices that actively monitor blood pressure, provide patient education, and offer medication management support are likely to achieve better hypertension control rates. Furthermore, practices that demonstrate a commitment to preventive care, such as regular check-ups and screenings, contribute significantly to the overall health of the community and positively impact the Hypertension Score. Examining patient satisfaction surveys and publicly available performance data, if available, provides valuable insights into the quality of care provided by individual practices.

Telemedicine adoption presents a significant opportunity to improve hypertension management, particularly in rural areas like Weogufka. Telemedicine allows patients to access care remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving adherence to treatment plans. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and medication refills via telehealth platforms demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and proactive disease management. The extent of telemedicine integration, including the types of services offered and the ease of access for patients, should be carefully considered in the Hypertension Score assessment. Practices with robust telemedicine programs receive a higher score.

The link between mental health and hypertension is well-established. Chronic stress and mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression, can significantly impact blood pressure control. Therefore, the integration of mental health resources within primary care practices is crucial. Practices that offer on-site mental health services, referrals to mental health specialists, or educational programs on stress management and coping mechanisms are better equipped to address the holistic needs of patients with hypertension. Assessing the availability and accessibility of these resources, including the presence of mental health professionals within the practice or readily available referral networks, is a critical component of the Hypertension Score. Practices with integrated mental health support receive a substantial boost to their score.

The Hypertension Score for doctors in ZIP code 35183 is not a static number but a complex evaluation that considers several factors. It incorporates the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of care provided by primary care practices, the extent of telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. Each factor is weighted based on its impact on hypertension control and patient outcomes. The final score reflects the overall effectiveness of the healthcare system in managing hypertension within the community. A higher score suggests a more favorable environment for hypertension management, while a lower score indicates areas needing improvement.

In the context of Weogufka, the analysis will likely reveal challenges common in rural areas. These challenges might include a lower physician-to-patient ratio, limited access to specialized care, and potential barriers to telemedicine adoption due to technological infrastructure or patient access. However, the analysis also seeks to identify opportunities for improvement, such as the potential for expanding telemedicine services, strengthening partnerships with mental health providers, and promoting patient education programs.

The final Hypertension Score for doctors in ZIP code 35183 should be interpreted as a starting point for further investigation and action. It provides a valuable framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in managing hypertension. It also identifies areas where targeted interventions can improve patient outcomes. This score is not a definitive judgment but a dynamic assessment that evolves as the healthcare landscape changes.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Weogufka and to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, including the location of primary care practices, pharmacies, and mental health providers, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps provide a powerful tool for visualizing data and identifying potential areas for improvement in hypertension management.