35443, Boligee, Alabama Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 35443, Boligee, Alabama is 9 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 75.21 percent of the residents in 35443 has some form of health insurance. 64.87 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 22.56 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 35443 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 237 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35443. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 234 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 30 health care providers accessible to residents in 35443, Boligee, Alabama.

The following analysis delves into the landscape of hypertension management within ZIP code 35443, focusing on physician availability, practice characteristics, and the integration of telehealth and mental health resources, all critical components of effective patient care. The analysis also considers the primary care landscape in Boligee, Alabama, a town within this ZIP code.

The cornerstone of hypertension management is access to qualified primary care physicians. In ZIP code 35443, this access is a crucial factor. The physician-to-patient ratio is a key indicator of healthcare accessibility. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnosis and treatment of hypertension. Accurately assessing this ratio requires up-to-date data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and local medical societies. This data is constantly evolving, so the most current information is paramount.

Beyond mere numbers, the distribution of physicians within the ZIP code is vital. Are primary care physicians clustered in one area, leaving other parts underserved? This geographic disparity can significantly impact patient access, particularly for those with limited transportation options or residing in rural areas.

Several practices within 35443 might stand out in their approach to hypertension management. Identifying these “standout” practices requires a deeper dive into their operational models. Do they employ certified hypertension specialists or have dedicated staff focused on hypertension care? Do they utilize evidence-based guidelines for diagnosis and treatment, such as those recommended by the American Heart Association or the American College of Cardiology? Do they have robust patient education programs, empowering patients to actively participate in their care through lifestyle modifications like diet and exercise?

The integration of telemedicine offers a promising avenue for improving hypertension management, particularly in rural areas like Boligee. Telemedicine allows physicians to remotely monitor patients’ blood pressure, adjust medications, and provide counseling, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. The level of telemedicine adoption among practices in 35443 is a crucial factor. Are practices utilizing secure video conferencing, remote patient monitoring devices, and patient portals for communication and data sharing? Those practices that embrace technology are likely to provide more accessible and efficient care.

Mental health is inextricably linked to hypertension management. Chronic stress and anxiety can elevate blood pressure, while depression can hinder adherence to treatment plans. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the community is a critical consideration. Are primary care practices integrated with mental health professionals, such as psychologists or psychiatrists? Do they offer on-site counseling services or have established referral pathways to mental health providers in the area? The presence of community mental health centers and support groups also contributes to a more comprehensive approach to patient care.

In Boligee, a town within ZIP code 35443, primary care availability is a particularly relevant concern. Rural communities often face challenges in recruiting and retaining physicians. The analysis must consider the specific availability of primary care physicians in Boligee, including the presence of any federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or rural health clinics (RHCs) that may serve the community. The distance patients must travel to access care is also a crucial factor, as longer travel times can create significant barriers to healthcare.

The quality of care is also a key factor. Practices should be assessed on their use of electronic health records (EHRs) and their ability to share patient data with other healthcare providers. EHRs facilitate better care coordination and allow physicians to track patient progress more effectively. The use of patient portals, where patients can access their medical records, communicate with their providers, and schedule appointments, also improves patient engagement and self-management.

Patient education plays a crucial role in hypertension management. Practices that provide educational materials, offer group classes, and engage patients in shared decision-making are likely to achieve better outcomes. The analysis should assess the availability of these resources within the practices in 35443.

The cost of care is another important consideration. The analysis should consider the acceptance of various insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, and the availability of financial assistance programs for patients who cannot afford their medications or other healthcare services.

The overall ranking of practices in 35443 should reflect a holistic assessment of these factors. Practices that demonstrate a strong commitment to patient access, quality of care, telemedicine adoption, mental health integration, and patient education will receive higher scores. This ranking should not only reflect the current state of affairs but also identify areas for improvement and highlight best practices that can be replicated by other practices.

Ultimately, the goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of hypertension management in 35443, empowering patients to make informed decisions about their healthcare and supporting healthcare providers in their efforts to deliver high-quality care. The analysis should serve as a roadmap for improving hypertension control and reducing the burden of cardiovascular disease in the community.

To gain a visual understanding of physician distribution, practice locations, and the geographic accessibility of care, consider exploring the power of spatial analysis. CartoChrome maps can provide an interactive and insightful view of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 35443.