35586, Sulligent, Alabama Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 35586, Sulligent, Alabama is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.57 percent of the residents in 35586 has some form of health insurance. 46.72 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.91 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 35586 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,045 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35586. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 786 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 251 health care providers accessible to residents in 35586, Sulligent, Alabama.

**Hypertension Score Analysis: Sulligent, Alabama (ZIP Code 35586)**

Analyzing hypertension management within Sulligent, Alabama (ZIP code 35586) requires a multifaceted approach, evaluating not only the availability of primary care physicians but also the broader healthcare ecosystem that supports hypertension control. This analysis will provide a "Hypertension Score" assessment, considering physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to paint a realistic picture of the challenges and opportunities in managing hypertension within this specific community.

The foundation of effective hypertension management lies in accessible primary care. Sulligent, a rural community, likely faces challenges common to such areas: physician shortages and limited access to specialists. While precise physician-to-patient ratios are difficult to ascertain without specific data, the general trend suggests a potential scarcity of primary care providers compared to more urban settings. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced frequency of check-ups, and ultimately, less proactive management of hypertension.

Standout practices are those that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive hypertension care. This includes not only the diagnosis and medication management but also patient education, lifestyle counseling, and regular monitoring. Identifying such practices requires a deeper dive into the specific services offered. Do they have dedicated hypertension clinics or programs? Do they employ certified diabetes educators or registered dietitians who can provide individualized guidance on diet and exercise? The presence of these resources significantly enhances the quality of care.

Telemedicine offers a promising solution to overcome geographical barriers and improve access to care, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption, however, varies greatly. Practices that embrace telemedicine can provide remote consultations, medication management, and remote monitoring of blood pressure. This can be especially beneficial for patients with mobility issues or those living far from a clinic. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption within the practices in Sulligent is crucial. Are virtual visits offered? Are remote blood pressure monitoring devices utilized?

The link between mental health and hypertension is well-established. Stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure control. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive hypertension management. This includes access to therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups. Are mental health services readily available in Sulligent? Are primary care practices integrated with mental health providers, allowing for seamless referrals and collaborative care? The answers to these questions directly impact the overall effectiveness of hypertension management.

The "Hypertension Score" for Sulligent would be a composite measure, reflecting the interplay of these factors. A high score would indicate a robust healthcare system with ample primary care access, standout practices, widespread telemedicine adoption, and readily available mental health resources. A low score would suggest significant challenges, including physician shortages, limited access to specialized services, and a lack of integrated care.

The analysis would consider the following aspects:

* **Primary Care Physician Density:** The number of primary care physicians per 1,000 residents in the ZIP code. This metric is essential for understanding the availability of initial care.
* **Specialist Access:** The proximity and availability of cardiologists, nephrologists, and endocrinologists, who are crucial for managing complex cases.
* **Practice Accreditation:** The presence of practices accredited by organizations that focus on hypertension care.
* **Telemedicine Capabilities:** The availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and digital tools for patient education.
* **Mental Health Integration:** The collaboration between primary care practices and mental health providers.
* **Patient Education Programs:** The availability of educational materials, support groups, and lifestyle counseling.
* **Medication Adherence Support:** Programs to assist patients in adhering to their prescribed medications.
* **Insurance Coverage:** The acceptance of various insurance plans and the affordability of healthcare services.

The assessment of these factors would allow for a more nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities in hypertension management in Sulligent. The "Hypertension Score" would serve as a benchmark for improvement, allowing for targeted interventions and resource allocation.

The specific practices in Sulligent would be individually assessed. This would involve reviewing their websites, contacting their offices, and gathering information from patient reviews. The goal is to identify those that are leading the way in hypertension care.

The integration of mental health services is a critical area for improvement. Primary care practices should strive to establish partnerships with local mental health providers. This can involve co-locating services, establishing referral pathways, and implementing collaborative care models.

Telemedicine adoption is another key area for development. Practices should explore the use of virtual consultations, remote monitoring devices, and digital patient education tools. This can improve access to care and enhance patient engagement.

The "Hypertension Score" analysis is more than just a number; it is a call to action. It highlights the need for collaborative efforts between healthcare providers, community organizations, and policymakers. The goal is to create a healthcare system that effectively addresses the needs of patients with hypertension.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Sulligent, including the locations of primary care practices, specialist offices, and pharmacies, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping solutions that can help visualize the distribution of healthcare resources and identify areas of need.