35214, Birmingham, Alabama Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 35214, Birmingham, Alabama is 90 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.22 percent of the residents in 35214 has some form of health insurance. 45.63 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.96 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 35214 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,646 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 115 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35214. An estimate of 109 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,799 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 29,469 health care providers accessible to residents in 35214, Birmingham, Alabama.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Birmingham, AL (ZIP Code 35214) & Primary Care Landscape

Analyzing hypertension management within Birmingham, Alabama, specifically focusing on the 35214 ZIP code and the broader primary care landscape, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will assess the availability of primary care physicians, their patient loads, the adoption of innovative technologies like telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial elements in controlling and treating hypertension. This granular assessment aims to provide a "Hypertension Score" perspective, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem.

The foundation of effective hypertension management lies in accessible primary care. Within the 35214 ZIP code, a critical factor is the physician-to-patient ratio. A high ratio, indicating a larger patient load per physician, can potentially impact the time available for comprehensive patient assessments, lifestyle counseling, and medication management – all vital components of hypertension care. Data from sources like the Alabama Department of Public Health, combined with information from professional organizations like the American Medical Association, are essential to determine these ratios. This data needs to be current and regularly updated to reflect changes in physician availability and population demographics. A lower physician-to-patient ratio, especially in areas with higher rates of hypertension, would be a positive indicator, contributing to a higher "Hypertension Score."

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care practices significantly impacts hypertension control. Evaluating practices requires looking at several factors. Firstly, the availability of on-site diagnostic tools, such as ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM), allows for more accurate and comprehensive blood pressure readings over time. Secondly, the presence of certified diabetes educators and registered dietitians within a practice can significantly improve patient outcomes through tailored lifestyle interventions. Thirdly, the implementation of electronic health records (EHRs) that allow for efficient data tracking, medication management, and patient communication is essential. Practices that proactively utilize EHRs to identify patients at risk, send reminders for appointments and medication refills, and provide patient portals for easy access to information would score favorably.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical element in the "Hypertension Score." The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and medication management via telehealth platforms can greatly improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility issues, transportation challenges, or those living in underserved areas. Practices that have fully integrated telemedicine into their hypertension management protocols, including secure video conferencing, remote monitoring devices, and patient education resources, would receive a higher score. The ease of access and the integration of telehealth with existing care pathways are key considerations.

The often-overlooked connection between mental health and hypertension control necessitates careful consideration. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly contribute to elevated blood pressure and hinder adherence to treatment plans. Practices that recognize this connection and offer or have readily accessible mental health resources, such as on-site therapists, partnerships with mental health professionals, or integrated screening tools, would demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. The integration of mental health services into the hypertension management plan, including referrals and coordinated care, would positively impact the "Hypertension Score."

Standout practices within the 35214 ZIP code and the broader Birmingham area can be identified through a combination of factors. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient education, offering group classes, individual counseling, and readily available educational materials, would be recognized. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, such as those promoted by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) or the American Medical Association (AMA), and demonstrate improved patient outcomes, would also be considered high-performing. Furthermore, practices that actively engage with their patients, seeking feedback and incorporating patient perspectives into their care plans, would be highly regarded.

The "Hypertension Score" for the 35214 ZIP code and the primary care landscape in Birmingham would be a composite of all the above factors. It's not just about the number of doctors; it's about the quality of care, the accessibility of services, the integration of technology, and the holistic approach to patient well-being. A higher score would indicate a robust and patient-centered approach to hypertension management, leading to better patient outcomes. Regular monitoring and evaluation of these factors are essential to identify areas for improvement and ensure that patients in the 35214 ZIP code and throughout Birmingham receive the best possible care.

This analysis, however, is a snapshot in time. Healthcare landscapes are constantly evolving. To stay informed about the dynamic changes in physician availability, practice characteristics, and access to care, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. CartoChrome provides a powerful platform to visualize and analyze healthcare data, allowing for detailed exploration of physician locations, patient demographics, and healthcare resource availability.