35213, Birmingham, Alabama Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 35213, Birmingham, Alabama is 90 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.27 percent of the residents in 35213 has some form of health insurance. 13.62 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 93.56 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 35213 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,850 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 115 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35213. An estimate of 103 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,027 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 30,025 health care providers accessible to residents in 35213, Birmingham, Alabama.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: ZIP Code 35213 & Birmingham Primary Care

This analysis delves into the landscape of hypertension management within ZIP Code 35213, a specific area within Birmingham, Alabama, and assesses the broader context of primary care availability across the city. We will evaluate factors contributing to effective hypertension control, including physician access, practice characteristics, technological integration, and mental health support, ultimately aiming to provide a nuanced understanding of the strengths and weaknesses in this critical area of healthcare.

The prevalence of hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a significant public health concern. Effective management is crucial to prevent serious complications like heart attack, stroke, and kidney disease. Access to quality primary care is the cornerstone of hypertension control, providing regular check-ups, medication management, and lifestyle counseling.

Within ZIP Code 35213, the physician-to-patient ratio serves as a fundamental indicator of access. Analyzing the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) practicing within the zip code relative to the population provides a preliminary assessment. A lower ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can signal potential challenges in securing timely appointments and consistent care. Further research into the specific types of PCPs (e.g., internal medicine, family practice) and their acceptance of new patients is essential.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality and characteristics of primary care practices in 35213 warrant close examination. Are practices accepting new patients? Are they equipped with modern diagnostic tools? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate patient schedules? The presence of certified diabetes educators and registered dietitians within practices is also a positive indicator, as lifestyle modifications are critical components of hypertension management.

Standout practices within the ZIP code should be identified. These are practices that demonstrate a commitment to excellence in hypertension care. This can be assessed through several criteria: a high proportion of patients with controlled blood pressure, patient satisfaction scores, and the implementation of evidence-based guidelines for hypertension treatment. Practices that actively engage patients in their care through patient education programs, reminders for medication refills, and regular follow-up appointments are likely to achieve better outcomes.

The adoption of telemedicine is a critical factor in modern healthcare delivery, especially in areas where access to care may be limited. Practices in 35213 that offer telehealth consultations for follow-up appointments, medication management, and patient education can significantly improve access and convenience for patients with hypertension. The ability to monitor blood pressure remotely, through connected devices, and share this data with the physician can further enhance care.

The link between mental health and hypertension is increasingly recognized. Chronic stress and anxiety can contribute to elevated blood pressure. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within or in close proximity to primary care practices is a significant advantage. Practices that offer on-site mental health services, or have established referral networks with mental health professionals, are better positioned to address the holistic needs of their patients.

Expanding the focus to primary care availability across Birmingham reveals a broader picture. Birmingham, like many cities, may experience disparities in access to care based on socioeconomic factors and geographic location. Understanding the distribution of primary care practices across the city, and identifying areas with limited access, is essential for targeted interventions.

Analyzing the availability of specialists, such as cardiologists and nephrologists, is also crucial. Patients with uncontrolled hypertension often require specialized care. The proximity of these specialists to primary care practices, and the efficiency of referral processes, can impact the overall quality of care.

Public health initiatives play a vital role in hypertension management. Community-based programs that promote healthy lifestyles, such as exercise classes and nutrition education, can complement the efforts of primary care physicians. Partnerships between healthcare providers and community organizations can enhance the reach and effectiveness of these programs.

The use of electronic health records (EHRs) is now standard practice, but the degree to which these systems are utilized to improve hypertension management varies. Practices that effectively use EHRs to track patient data, generate reminders for appointments and medication refills, and implement clinical decision support tools are likely to achieve better outcomes. The ability to share patient data securely with other healthcare providers is also important for coordinated care.

Patient education is a cornerstone of effective hypertension management. Practices that provide patients with clear and concise information about their condition, treatment options, and lifestyle modifications are more likely to see improved adherence to treatment plans. The use of patient portals, educational materials, and group classes can enhance patient engagement and knowledge.

The assessment of hypertension management in 35213 and Birmingham should also consider the affordability of care. The cost of medications, doctor visits, and diagnostic tests can be a barrier to access for some patients. Practices that offer affordable payment options, and participate in programs that provide financial assistance, can help to mitigate this challenge.

In conclusion, a comprehensive assessment of hypertension management requires a multi-faceted approach. Evaluating physician access, practice characteristics, technological integration, mental health support, and the affordability of care provides a more complete picture. While this analysis provides a starting point, a deeper dive into specific practice data, patient outcomes, and community resources is necessary to fully understand the strengths and weaknesses of hypertension care in ZIP Code 35213 and across Birmingham.

Would you like to visualize the primary care landscape in Birmingham and identify areas of need? **Explore the power of location-based data with CartoChrome maps to gain a visual understanding of physician distribution, access to care, and other critical factors influencing hypertension management.**