35633, Florence, Alabama Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 35633, Florence, Alabama is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.35 percent of the residents in 35633 has some form of health insurance. 36.69 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.93 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 35633 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,715 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35633. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,181 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,957 health care providers accessible to residents in 35633, Florence, Alabama.

The city of Florence, Alabama, within the 35633 ZIP code, presents a complex landscape when assessing hypertension management and primary care accessibility. This analysis will delve into the available resources, physician-to-patient ratios, innovative practice approaches, telemedicine integration, and the presence of mental health support systems, culminating in a comprehensive ‘Hypertension Score’ assessment. The goal is to provide a clear understanding of the strengths and weaknesses within the local healthcare ecosystem, offering insights for both residents and healthcare professionals.

The foundational element of hypertension management is the availability of primary care physicians. In Florence, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor influencing access. While precise figures fluctuate, the overall ratio often reveals a potential strain on resources. A higher ratio, indicating more patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially, less comprehensive care. This is particularly concerning for hypertension, a chronic condition requiring regular monitoring and medication adjustments. The density of primary care practices within the 35633 ZIP code, and the surrounding areas, is therefore a primary indicator of the accessibility of care.

Within the Florence area, several primary care practices stand out for their commitment to hypertension management. These practices often demonstrate a proactive approach, implementing evidence-based guidelines for screening, diagnosis, and treatment. Some may utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient data, automate reminders for follow-up appointments, and facilitate communication between physicians and patients. The implementation of standardized protocols for blood pressure measurement, lifestyle counseling, and medication management is a key characteristic of high-performing practices. These practices often emphasize patient education, empowering individuals to take an active role in managing their condition.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial element in assessing the quality of hypertension care. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, monitor blood pressure remotely, and provide medication refills online can significantly improve patient convenience and adherence to treatment plans. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can potentially reach a wider patient population, particularly those with mobility limitations or residing in rural areas. The integration of remote patient monitoring devices, such as blood pressure cuffs that transmit data directly to the physician, is a further indication of advanced telemedicine implementation. The degree of telemedicine adoption directly impacts the ‘Hypertension Score’ by improving accessibility and patient engagement.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to effective hypertension management. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure levels and interfere with adherence to treatment. The presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and counselors, within the primary care setting or through referral networks, is a critical component of comprehensive care. Practices that offer integrated mental health services, or have established strong referral pathways, are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients. The availability of these resources contributes to a higher ‘Hypertension Score’ by addressing the psychological factors that influence blood pressure control.

The ‘Hypertension Score’ for doctors in ZIP Code 35633 is a composite assessment, taking into account the factors discussed above. It is not a single, definitive number but rather a reflection of the overall quality and accessibility of hypertension care. Practices with a lower physician-to-patient ratio, robust telemedicine capabilities, proactive management protocols, and integrated mental health support will receive a higher score. The ‘Hypertension Score’ is a dynamic measure, reflecting the evolving landscape of healthcare delivery and the ongoing efforts to improve patient outcomes.

The primary care availability in Florence, specifically within the 35633 ZIP code, is a key determinant of the ‘Hypertension Score’. The geographic distribution of primary care practices, and their capacity to accommodate new patients, directly impacts the accessibility of care. Areas with a higher density of primary care physicians, and shorter wait times for appointments, will contribute to a higher overall score. The availability of specialists, such as cardiologists and nephrologists, for consultation and referral, is also a factor in assessing the comprehensiveness of care.

Standout practices within the area often utilize innovative approaches to hypertension management. This includes the implementation of patient-centered care models, where patients are actively involved in decision-making and treatment planning. The use of technology, such as mobile health apps and wearable devices, to monitor blood pressure and track lifestyle changes, is another example of innovative practice. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to continuous quality improvement, regularly evaluating their performance and making adjustments to optimize patient outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption, as mentioned earlier, is a significant factor in the overall ‘Hypertension Score’. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their workflow can improve patient access and convenience, particularly for those with mobility limitations or residing in remote areas. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, monitor blood pressure remotely, and provide medication refills online can enhance patient adherence to treatment plans. The extent of telemedicine integration, including the use of remote patient monitoring devices, is a key indicator of the practice's commitment to patient-centered care.

The integration of mental health resources is a crucial element in comprehensive hypertension management. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure levels and interfere with adherence to treatment. Practices that offer integrated mental health services, or have established strong referral pathways, are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients. The availability of these resources contributes to a higher ‘Hypertension Score’ by addressing the psychological factors that influence blood pressure control.

In conclusion, the ‘Hypertension Score’ assessment for doctors in ZIP Code 35633 and primary care availability in Florence is a multifaceted evaluation. It considers physician-to-patient ratios, innovative practice approaches, telemedicine adoption, and the presence of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the strengths and weaknesses within the local healthcare ecosystem, offering insights for both residents and healthcare professionals. To visualize the geographic distribution of primary care practices, physician-to-patient ratios, and other relevant healthcare data, visit CartoChrome maps.