35224, Birmingham, Alabama Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 35224, Birmingham, Alabama is 92 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 81.64 percent of the residents in 35224 has some form of health insurance. 49.27 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 43.61 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 35224 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,579 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 115 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35224. An estimate of 103 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 588 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 29,539 health care providers accessible to residents in 35224, Birmingham, Alabama.

The analysis below provides a hypertension score assessment for primary care physicians within ZIP code 35224, a suburb of Birmingham, Alabama, considering factors relevant to effective hypertension management. This assessment also considers the broader context of primary care availability in Birmingham. This is not a definitive ranking, but rather a data-driven overview.

The cornerstone of hypertension management is accessible primary care. In 35224, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. While precise figures fluctuate, the availability of primary care physicians relative to the population size in this ZIP code is a crucial starting point. Areas with higher physician-to-patient ratios, indicating fewer physicians per capita, may present challenges in securing timely appointments and follow-up care, potentially hindering effective hypertension control. Conversely, a favorable ratio suggests greater access to care.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality and accessibility of care are paramount. Standout practices within 35224 are those that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive hypertension management. This includes readily available appointment scheduling, efficient office workflows, and a proactive approach to patient education. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively to track patient data, monitor blood pressure readings, and facilitate medication management are likely to achieve superior outcomes. The presence of certified hypertension specialists or physicians with a particular interest in cardiovascular health further enhances the quality of care.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and medication refills significantly improves patient convenience and adherence to treatment plans. Practices that have embraced telemedicine technologies can provide more frequent and accessible follow-up care, particularly beneficial for patients with hypertension who require regular monitoring and adjustments to their treatment regimens. This is especially important for patients with mobility issues or those living in areas with limited transportation options.

The link between mental health and hypertension is well-established. Stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure levels and treatment adherence. Practices that integrate mental health resources into their care models are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients. This might include on-site therapists, referrals to mental health specialists, or educational programs that address stress management techniques. The availability of these resources within the practice or through readily accessible referral networks is a significant advantage.

The assessment of primary care availability in Birmingham as a whole is also critical. The overall density of primary care physicians, the distribution of these physicians across different neighborhoods, and the availability of specialty care are all relevant factors. Areas with concentrated physician resources and a well-developed healthcare infrastructure tend to provide better access to care, which, in turn, can lead to improved health outcomes.

Specific practices within 35224 are considered based on publicly available information, including patient reviews, practice websites, and insurance provider directories. Practices that consistently receive positive feedback regarding patient satisfaction, appointment availability, and communication are likely to be considered favorably. Those that actively promote patient education, offer comprehensive care plans, and demonstrate a commitment to preventative medicine also score higher.

The availability of ancillary services, such as on-site pharmacies, diagnostic testing facilities, and cardiovascular specialists, further enhances the convenience and comprehensiveness of care. Practices that offer these services in-house or have established strong referral networks are better positioned to provide integrated care, which can improve patient outcomes.

The use of evidence-based guidelines in hypertension management is another important consideration. Practices that adhere to the latest recommendations from organizations like the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology are more likely to provide effective and up-to-date care. This includes the use of appropriate blood pressure targets, the selection of evidence-based medications, and the implementation of lifestyle modification recommendations.

The integration of technology to improve patient engagement is also a factor. Practices that utilize patient portals, mobile apps, and other digital tools to facilitate communication, provide educational resources, and track patient progress are better equipped to empower patients to take an active role in their own care. This can lead to improved adherence to treatment plans and better blood pressure control.

The cost of care is another important consideration. Practices that offer affordable services, accept a wide range of insurance plans, and are transparent about their pricing are more accessible to a broader patient population. The availability of financial assistance programs or payment plans can further improve access to care for patients with limited financial resources.

The overall goal of this assessment is to provide a comprehensive overview of the factors that contribute to effective hypertension management in 35224 and the broader Birmingham area. The analysis considers a range of factors, from physician-to-patient ratios and telemedicine adoption to mental health resources and the use of evidence-based guidelines.

This analysis is not exhaustive, and individual patient experiences may vary. However, by considering these factors, patients can make informed decisions about their healthcare and seek out practices that are best equipped to meet their needs.

Explore the landscape of healthcare availability and physician locations in 35224 and the surrounding areas with a visual and interactive map. Discover insights into the geographic distribution of healthcare resources. Visualize the data with CartoChrome maps.