35474, Moundville, Alabama Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 35474, Moundville, Alabama is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.58 percent of the residents in 35474 has some form of health insurance. 32.77 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.38 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 35474 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,724 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35474. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 907 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 603 health care providers accessible to residents in 35474, Moundville, Alabama.

The analysis below provides an in-depth assessment of hypertension management capabilities within ZIP code 35474, focusing on primary care availability in Moundville, Alabama. This evaluation aims to identify strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement in addressing this prevalent health concern. The analysis will use a 'Hypertension Score' framework, considering factors like physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health support.

The foundation of effective hypertension management lies in accessible primary care. Moundville, a small community within 35474, presents a unique challenge. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is crucial. A low PCP-to-population ratio can significantly hinder access to timely screenings, diagnoses, and ongoing management of hypertension. The specific ratio within Moundville needs to be determined to accurately assess the situation. A ratio below the national average, or even the state average, would indicate a potential access barrier. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes for residents.

Beyond sheer numbers, the characteristics of the primary care practices themselves are critical. Do the practices within Moundville and the broader 35474 ZIP code offer comprehensive hypertension management services? This includes regular blood pressure monitoring, lifestyle counseling (diet and exercise), medication management, and patient education. Practices that consistently adhere to evidence-based guidelines for hypertension treatment, such as those established by the American Heart Association or the American College of Cardiology, would receive a higher score. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) is another important factor. EHRs facilitate efficient data management, medication reconciliation, and communication between healthcare providers. Practices with robust EHR systems are better equipped to track patient progress and provide coordinated care.

Telemedicine, particularly in rural areas like Moundville, offers a promising avenue to improve access to care. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in 35474 can significantly impact the Hypertension Score. Practices that offer virtual consultations for medication refills, blood pressure monitoring, and follow-up appointments would be viewed favorably. Telemedicine can help overcome geographical barriers, allowing patients to receive care without traveling long distances. The availability of remote blood pressure monitoring devices, coupled with virtual consultations, can further enhance patient self-management and improve outcomes.

The connection between hypertension and mental health is increasingly recognized. Chronic stress and anxiety can contribute to elevated blood pressure, and individuals with hypertension are at increased risk for mental health conditions like depression. The presence of mental health resources within primary care practices, or readily available referrals to mental health professionals, is therefore a vital component of effective hypertension management. Practices that screen patients for depression and anxiety, and that offer or facilitate access to counseling and therapy, would receive a higher Hypertension Score. The integration of mental health services into primary care can lead to a more holistic approach to patient care, addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of the disease.

To identify standout practices within 35474, it's essential to look for those that demonstrate excellence in several key areas. Practices with a high percentage of patients under control, as measured by blood pressure readings within target ranges, would be considered top performers. Practices that actively engage patients in their care, providing education and support for lifestyle modifications, would also receive recognition. The use of patient portals, allowing patients to access their medical records and communicate with their providers, is another indicator of a patient-centered approach. Furthermore, practices that participate in quality improvement initiatives, such as those aimed at improving hypertension control rates, demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement.

The analysis of primary care availability in Moundville and the broader 35474 ZIP code requires a thorough assessment of the healthcare landscape. This includes gathering data on the number of PCPs, the services offered by local practices, the availability of telemedicine, and the presence of mental health resources. This data can be collected from various sources, including public health agencies, insurance providers, and healthcare directories. The information should be analyzed to calculate a Hypertension Score for each practice and for the ZIP code as a whole. This score can then be used to identify areas for improvement and to develop strategies to enhance hypertension management in the community.

In conclusion, improving hypertension management in Moundville and 35474 requires a multifaceted approach. Addressing the physician-to-patient ratio, promoting the adoption of telemedicine, integrating mental health services, and supporting patient education are all crucial steps. By focusing on these areas, the community can work toward better health outcomes for its residents.

To visualize the data and gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in 35474, consider exploring the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. These maps can provide valuable insights into physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to care, allowing you to identify areas of need and opportunities for improvement.