35235, Birmingham, Alabama Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 35235, Birmingham, Alabama is 93 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.31 percent of the residents in 35235 has some form of health insurance. 41.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.44 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 35235 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,904 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 113 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35235. An estimate of 96 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,532 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 28,228 health care providers accessible to residents in 35235, Birmingham, Alabama.

The health landscape within ZIP Code 35235, encompassing a significant portion of Birmingham, Alabama, presents a complex picture when viewed through the lens of hypertension management and primary care access. A comprehensive ‘Hypertension Score’ analysis, considering various factors, reveals strengths and weaknesses within the local medical community. This analysis aims to provide an informed perspective on the availability and effectiveness of care for individuals managing or at risk of developing hypertension.

The foundation of any hypertension score rests on the availability of primary care physicians. Birmingham, as a major metropolitan area, generally enjoys a better physician-to-patient ratio than many rural regions. However, within 35235, the distribution of these resources becomes crucial. Areas with higher concentrations of elderly residents or underserved populations may experience greater strain on existing primary care practices. Analyzing the patient load per physician, the ability to accept new patients, and the proximity of practices to residential areas are essential components of the score.

Standout practices within 35235 are those that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive hypertension management. This includes proactive screening programs, patient education initiatives, and a focus on lifestyle modifications. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively to track patient data, monitor blood pressure readings, and facilitate medication management often achieve superior outcomes. Furthermore, practices that offer extended hours, weekend appointments, or same-day appointments significantly improve patient access and convenience, factors that positively influence the Hypertension Score.

Telemedicine adoption plays an increasingly vital role in hypertension management. Practices that embrace telehealth platforms, offering virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and medication refills, can significantly improve patient access, especially for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. The ability to remotely monitor blood pressure and provide timely interventions can also prevent complications and reduce the need for emergency room visits. The Hypertension Score should reflect the degree of telemedicine integration and the availability of virtual care options within each practice.

The link between mental health and hypertension is well-established. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can contribute to elevated blood pressure. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within a practice or through referral networks is a critical component of a robust hypertension management strategy. Practices that integrate mental health screening, offer counseling services, or have established partnerships with mental health professionals are better positioned to address the holistic needs of their patients. This integration directly impacts the overall Hypertension Score.

The analysis of available resources must also consider the demographics of the population within 35235. Areas with a higher prevalence of African American residents, for example, may require targeted interventions due to the increased risk of hypertension within this demographic. Practices that demonstrate cultural sensitivity, offer culturally competent care, and actively engage in community outreach programs to address health disparities will receive a higher score.

Evaluating the effectiveness of hypertension management requires examining patient outcomes. This includes tracking the percentage of patients whose blood pressure is controlled within target ranges, the rates of complications such as heart attack and stroke, and the utilization of preventative services. Practices that demonstrate improved patient outcomes through data-driven interventions and adherence to evidence-based guidelines will be recognized in the Hypertension Score.

Primary care availability in Birmingham, and specifically within 35235, is influenced by several factors. The overall number of primary care physicians, the location of their practices, the types of insurance accepted, and the ability to accommodate new patients all contribute to access. Areas with a shortage of primary care physicians may experience longer wait times for appointments, leading to delayed diagnosis and treatment of hypertension. The Hypertension Score must reflect the accessibility of primary care services within the community.

The quality of primary care also plays a critical role. Practices that are accredited by reputable organizations, such as the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), demonstrate a commitment to quality standards and patient safety. The Hypertension Score should incorporate assessments of practice quality, including the use of evidence-based guidelines, patient satisfaction surveys, and the implementation of quality improvement initiatives.

In conclusion, the ‘Hypertension Score’ analysis for doctors in ZIP Code 35235 and primary care availability in Birmingham requires a multifaceted approach. It involves evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices that prioritize comprehensive hypertension management, assessing the adoption of telemedicine, and considering the integration of mental health resources. Furthermore, the analysis must account for demographic factors, patient outcomes, and the overall accessibility and quality of primary care services. This comprehensive assessment provides a valuable tool for patients seeking quality care and for healthcare providers striving to improve their services.

To further explore the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, physician locations, and demographic data related to hypertension in Birmingham, we invite you to utilize the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. CartoChrome provides a dynamic and visual representation of the health landscape, allowing you to analyze data and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.