35244, Birmingham, Alabama Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 35244, Birmingham, Alabama is 91 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.52 percent of the residents in 35244 has some form of health insurance. 20.95 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 85.24 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 35244 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 9,152 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 124 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35244. An estimate of 110 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,283 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 29,344 health care providers accessible to residents in 35244, Birmingham, Alabama.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Birmingham (35244) Primary Care Landscape

Analyzing the primary care landscape in Birmingham, specifically focusing on the 35244 ZIP code, requires a multifaceted approach. This involves assessing the availability of primary care physicians, evaluating the quality of care offered, and examining the resources available to manage hypertension, a prevalent health concern. The analysis will consider factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, ultimately contributing to a "Hypertension Score" for the area.

The 35244 ZIP code, like many areas, likely faces challenges in primary care access. The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial indicator. A high ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially, poorer health outcomes. Data collection from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), state medical boards, and insurance provider networks is essential to determine the actual physician-to-patient ratio within this specific ZIP code. This ratio, along with the demographics of the population (age, socioeconomic status, prevalence of chronic conditions), forms the foundation of the Hypertension Score.

Identifying standout practices is vital. These practices often demonstrate excellence in patient care, particularly in managing chronic conditions like hypertension. Factors to consider include: the use of evidence-based guidelines for hypertension management (e.g., those from the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology), patient satisfaction scores (gathered through surveys and online reviews), the availability of on-site diagnostic services (e.g., blood pressure monitoring, laboratory testing), and the implementation of comprehensive care models. Practices that actively engage patients in their care, provide education about lifestyle modifications (diet, exercise, stress management), and offer robust follow-up protocols are likely to score higher.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical element. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring of blood pressure, and online patient portals can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues, transportation challenges, or those living in underserved areas. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, providing secure video conferencing, remote monitoring devices, and patient education materials online, contribute positively to the Hypertension Score. The ease of use, accessibility, and integration of telemedicine platforms into the overall care workflow are key considerations.

The integration of mental health resources is often overlooked but is crucial in hypertension management. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure control. Practices that recognize this connection and offer integrated mental health services, either through on-site therapists or referrals to mental health professionals, demonstrate a more holistic approach to patient care. This integration might include screening for mental health conditions, providing counseling services, or collaborating with psychiatrists to manage medication and support patient well-being. The availability of these resources contributes significantly to a higher Hypertension Score.

The Hypertension Score is not a static number but a dynamic assessment. It should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. This score should incorporate data points such as the percentage of patients with controlled blood pressure, the utilization of preventative services (e.g., screenings for cardiovascular risk factors), and the patient's experience with the healthcare system. The score should also consider the diversity of the healthcare workforce and the cultural competency of the practices in serving the diverse population of 35244.

Beyond the specific metrics, the overall environment of the healthcare system matters. The presence of community health initiatives, partnerships with local hospitals, and the availability of resources like support groups and educational programs all contribute to the Hypertension Score. The degree to which practices are engaged in community outreach and actively participate in efforts to improve public health will be a factor.

The analysis should also consider the availability of specialists. While this analysis focuses on primary care, access to cardiology, nephrology, and endocrinology specialists is crucial for patients with complex hypertension cases. The ability of primary care physicians to effectively refer patients to specialists and the efficiency of the referral process are important considerations.

The ultimate goal is to create a comprehensive picture of the primary care landscape in 35244, allowing for informed decisions. The Hypertension Score will help patients find the best care, healthcare providers identify areas for improvement, and policymakers allocate resources effectively. Regular monitoring, data analysis, and feedback from patients and providers are essential to refine the score and ensure its accuracy and relevance.

The information gathered can be used to create a detailed map of primary care resources in the area. This map could highlight practices with high Hypertension Scores, telemedicine capabilities, and integrated mental health services.