35614, Athens, Alabama Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 35614, Athens, Alabama is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.95 percent of the residents in 35614 has some form of health insurance. 43.17 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.71 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 35614 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,878 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35614. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,287 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,794 health care providers accessible to residents in 35614, Athens, Alabama.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Athens, AL (ZIP Code 35614)

Analyzing the landscape of hypertension care within Athens, Alabama (ZIP Code 35614) requires a multi-faceted approach, encompassing physician availability, practice characteristics, technological integration, and the presence of supporting mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide a "Hypertension Score" assessment, evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem in managing this prevalent condition.

The foundation of effective hypertension management rests on accessible primary care. In Athens, the physician-to-patient ratio for primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical indicator. While precise figures fluctuate, understanding the number of PCPs per 1,000 residents is crucial. A lower ratio, indicating fewer doctors for a larger population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial diagnosis and treatment initiation for individuals with or at risk of hypertension. This impacts the Hypertension Score negatively.

Beyond mere numbers, the distribution of PCPs within the ZIP code is important. Are practices concentrated in specific areas, leaving underserved pockets? Examining the geographic accessibility of care, considering factors like transportation and proximity to pharmacies, is essential. A fragmented system, with limited coordination between providers, can hinder continuity of care and negatively affect the Hypertension Score.

Standout practices within 35614 deserve recognition. These are the healthcare providers that are truly excelling in hypertension management. They are likely to have a multi-disciplinary approach, including registered dietitians and certified diabetes educators, offering comprehensive lifestyle interventions. They may have robust patient education programs, empowering individuals to actively participate in their care. These practices should also have a demonstrated commitment to evidence-based guidelines for hypertension treatment, regularly monitoring and adjusting medication regimens as needed. Their commitment to excellence would positively impact the Hypertension Score.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and medication management via telehealth can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations, those residing in rural areas, or those with busy schedules. Practices that embrace telemedicine can improve their Hypertension Score.

The integration of mental health resources is also critical. Hypertension and mental health are often intertwined. Stress, anxiety, and depression can exacerbate high blood pressure, while the diagnosis and management of hypertension can, in turn, impact mental well-being. Practices that integrate behavioral health services, either directly or through referrals, demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care, improving the Hypertension Score.

The availability of local resources like support groups, community health programs, and access to affordable medications also contribute to the overall Hypertension Score. These resources can provide valuable support and education to patients, empowering them to manage their condition effectively.

The presence of electronic health records (EHRs) is a crucial element. EHRs facilitate seamless information sharing between providers, improving care coordination and reducing the risk of medical errors. Practices with robust EHR systems, capable of generating automated reminders for appointments and medication refills, are better positioned to provide proactive and preventative care, positively influencing the Hypertension Score.

Furthermore, the use of data analytics to track patient outcomes and identify areas for improvement is a sign of a proactive approach. Practices that analyze their patient data to assess the effectiveness of their hypertension management strategies can continuously refine their approach, ultimately leading to better patient outcomes and a higher Hypertension Score.

The quality of communication between physicians and patients is also a key factor. Clear, concise, and empathetic communication is essential for building trust and ensuring that patients understand their condition and treatment plan. Practices that prioritize patient communication, using plain language and providing ample opportunities for questions and concerns, are more likely to achieve positive patient outcomes and improve their Hypertension Score.

In summary, the Hypertension Score for Athens, AL (35614) is a complex metric. It is influenced by the physician-to-patient ratio, the geographic distribution of PCPs, the adoption of technology like telemedicine, the integration of mental health services, the availability of local resources, and the quality of communication between providers and patients.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Athens, AL (35614), we invite you to explore the power of spatial analysis. CartoChrome maps provides a visual representation of this data, allowing you to identify areas with high and low access to care, pinpoint the location of key resources, and visualize the geographic distribution of hypertension prevalence and related factors.