35611, Athens, Alabama Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 35611, Athens, Alabama is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.14 percent of the residents in 35611 has some form of health insurance. 37.19 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.09 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 35611 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,481 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35611. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,743 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,226 health care providers accessible to residents in 35611, Athens, Alabama.

**Hypertension Score Analysis: Athens, Alabama (ZIP Code 35611)**

The city of Athens, Alabama, nestled within ZIP code 35611, presents a unique landscape for healthcare, particularly concerning the management of hypertension. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the available resources, physician-to-patient ratios, and innovative approaches to hypertension care, culminating in a "Hypertension Score" ranking for the area. This score is not a single numerical value but rather a qualitative assessment based on various factors.

Primary care availability in Athens is a critical determinant of the Hypertension Score. The accessibility of primary care physicians (PCPs) directly impacts the ability of residents to receive regular screenings, diagnoses, and ongoing management of hypertension. A robust network of PCPs, including family medicine practitioners, internal medicine specialists, and geriatricians, is essential. The physician-to-patient ratio in 35611, while not readily available as a precise number, appears to be a point of concern. The availability of primary care physicians is somewhat limited, which could potentially lead to longer wait times for appointments and reduced access to preventative care. This scarcity directly impacts the early detection and effective management of hypertension.

Standout practices within Athens are crucial to the overall score. Identifying practices that prioritize hypertension management, implement evidence-based guidelines, and demonstrate patient-centered care is vital. These practices often incorporate innovative strategies such as comprehensive patient education programs, medication management support, and regular follow-up appointments. Such practices often employ certified diabetes educators and registered dietitians to provide patients with the tools and knowledge to manage their condition effectively. The presence of these resources contributes significantly to the Hypertension Score.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor. The integration of telemedicine services can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Telemedicine allows for virtual consultations, remote monitoring of blood pressure, and medication management, thereby enhancing patient convenience and compliance. The extent of telemedicine adoption among primary care practices in Athens will influence the Hypertension Score. Practices that embrace telemedicine can improve patient outcomes and enhance the overall quality of hypertension care.

Mental health resources also play a significant role in hypertension management. Chronic stress and mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression, can exacerbate hypertension. The availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is therefore critical. Integrated behavioral health services within primary care practices are particularly beneficial. These services can provide patients with access to mental health support and counseling, which can help them manage stress and improve their overall well-being. The integration of mental health services contributes positively to the Hypertension Score.

The overall "Hypertension Score" for Athens, Alabama (35611) is likely moderate. While the area may have some dedicated practices, the limited physician-to-patient ratio and the need for increased telemedicine adoption and mental health integration suggest there is room for improvement. The score reflects the need for increased investment in healthcare infrastructure, including the recruitment of more primary care physicians, the expansion of telemedicine services, and the integration of mental health resources.

Specifically, the practices in Athens should focus on the following to improve their Hypertension Score. They should prioritize patient education programs to empower patients to take control of their health. They must also implement medication management support to ensure patients adhere to their prescribed regimens. They should also establish regular follow-up appointments to monitor patient progress and make necessary adjustments to treatment plans.

The community needs to recognize the importance of early detection and preventative care. Public health initiatives that promote awareness about hypertension and encourage regular screenings are vital. These initiatives should target all segments of the population, with a particular focus on high-risk groups.

The expansion of telemedicine services is crucial. This will improve access to care for patients who live in rural areas or have mobility limitations. Telemedicine can also help to reduce wait times for appointments and improve patient convenience.

The integration of mental health resources into primary care practices is also essential. This will provide patients with access to mental health support and counseling, which can help them manage stress and improve their overall well-being.

The Hypertension Score is a dynamic metric, and its value is subject to change based on the ongoing developments in healthcare. The commitment of healthcare providers, community leaders, and the residents of Athens is essential to elevate the score. The collective effort will improve the quality of life for the community.

To gain a more visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Athens, including the distribution of healthcare providers and the availability of resources, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. These maps offer a valuable tool for visualizing the data and identifying areas where improvements are needed.