35570, Hamilton, Alabama Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 35570, Hamilton, Alabama is 9 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.01 percent of the residents in 35570 has some form of health insurance. 39.77 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.38 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 35570 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,061 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35570. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,347 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 362 health care providers accessible to residents in 35570, Hamilton, Alabama.

**Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 35570 and Primary Care Availability in Hamilton, Alabama**

Analyzing the landscape of healthcare accessibility and quality in Hamilton, Alabama, specifically within the 35570 ZIP code, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians, focusing on factors relevant to hypertension management, such as physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" assessment, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system concerning this prevalent condition.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a foundational metric. A lower ratio indicates a greater availability of physicians per capita, potentially leading to improved access to care, including regular check-ups and timely interventions for hypertension. Data from various sources, including the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners and publicly available health statistics, must be collated to determine this ratio accurately within the 35570 ZIP code. This ratio will be a critical component of the Hypertension Score.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of care is crucial. Identifying standout practices within the community is essential. This involves researching practices with a demonstrated commitment to hypertension management. Factors to consider include the availability of certified hypertension specialists, the implementation of evidence-based treatment protocols, and the utilization of patient-centered care models. Practices that proactively monitor patients' blood pressure, offer lifestyle counseling, and provide medication management support would score higher.

Telemedicine adoption plays an increasingly important role in healthcare accessibility, especially in rural areas like Hamilton. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with physicians remotely, receive medication refills, and monitor their blood pressure from home. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring capabilities, will receive a favorable assessment in the Hypertension Score. The availability of reliable internet connectivity within the community is also a factor, as it influences the effectiveness of telemedicine initiatives.

Hypertension is often intertwined with mental health. Stress, anxiety, and depression can exacerbate high blood pressure and hinder treatment adherence. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the community is a crucial aspect of the Hypertension Score. This includes access to psychiatrists, therapists, and support groups. Practices that integrate mental health screening and referral services into their hypertension management programs will be viewed favorably. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health professionals is a key indicator of a well-integrated healthcare system.

The overall Hypertension Score will be a composite of these factors. The physician-to-patient ratio will be weighted, reflecting its fundamental importance. The presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources will contribute to the score, reflecting the quality and comprehensiveness of care. The score will not only provide a snapshot of the current situation but also highlight areas for improvement.

The specific practices in the 35570 ZIP code will be individually assessed. This will involve a review of their websites, patient reviews, and publicly available information. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to hypertension management, as evidenced by their services, staff, and patient outcomes, will be recognized. This detailed analysis will allow for a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape.

The analysis will also consider the demographics of the community. Factors such as age, race, and socioeconomic status can influence hypertension prevalence and access to care. Understanding these demographic factors is crucial for tailoring healthcare interventions and ensuring equitable access to quality care.

The assessment will consider the availability of resources for patients. This includes educational materials, support groups, and access to affordable medications. Practices that proactively provide these resources will receive a higher score. Patient education is crucial for empowering individuals to manage their hypertension effectively.

The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) is another important consideration. EHRs facilitate the sharing of patient information between healthcare providers, improving care coordination and reducing the risk of medical errors. Practices with robust EHR systems will be viewed more favorably. The ability to track patient progress and monitor treatment effectiveness is greatly enhanced by the use of EHRs.

The analysis will also assess the presence of community-based health initiatives. These initiatives can include health fairs, screening programs, and educational campaigns. Practices that actively participate in these initiatives demonstrate a commitment to improving the health of the community.

The final Hypertension Score will be presented as a numerical value, along with a narrative summary. The summary will highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system and provide recommendations for improvement. This information can be used by healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members to improve the quality of hypertension management in Hamilton, Alabama.

The analysis will be conducted using publicly available data, supplemented by direct outreach to healthcare providers in the 35570 ZIP code. The goal is to provide an objective and comprehensive assessment of the healthcare landscape.

The ultimate goal is to empower individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare and to encourage healthcare providers to continuously improve the quality of care they provide. The Hypertension Score will serve as a valuable tool for achieving these goals.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Hamilton, Alabama, including the location of physicians, the availability of resources, and demographic data, consider exploring the power of CartoChrome maps. These maps provide a dynamic and interactive way to understand the complex interplay of factors influencing hypertension management.