35643, Hillsboro, Alabama Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 35643, Hillsboro, Alabama is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.82 percent of the residents in 35643 has some form of health insurance. 39.69 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.86 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 35643 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 823 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35643. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 677 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,338 health care providers accessible to residents in 35643, Hillsboro, Alabama.

**Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 35643 and Primary Care Availability in Hillsboro**

Analyzing healthcare access and quality, particularly concerning hypertension management, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis focuses on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) in ZIP Code 35643, Hillsboro, Alabama, and their capacity to address hypertension, considering factors like physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and integration of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a nuanced "Hypertension Score" assessment, highlighting strengths and weaknesses within the local healthcare landscape.

The cornerstone of effective hypertension management is access to a primary care physician. In Hillsboro, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A high ratio, meaning fewer physicians serving a larger population, can strain resources, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced time spent with each patient. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater accessibility. Researching the exact physician-to-patient ratio in 35643 is the first step. Publicly available data from sources like the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services or state medical boards can provide this information.

Beyond simple numbers, the distribution of PCPs matters. Are physicians clustered in specific areas, leaving others underserved? Are there enough PCPs accepting new patients? The availability of specialists, particularly cardiologists, within a reasonable distance is also important, as hypertension often requires specialized management. Analyzing the geographic distribution of healthcare providers, including specialists, is crucial for understanding the overall accessibility of care.

Several practices in the 35643 ZIP code might stand out in their approach to hypertension management. These practices might have dedicated hypertension clinics, specialized nurses or medical assistants, or offer comprehensive patient education programs. Identifying these standout practices involves reviewing patient testimonials, researching practice websites, and potentially contacting local healthcare advocacy groups. Practices that emphasize patient education, lifestyle modifications, and regular follow-up appointments often demonstrate superior outcomes in hypertension control.

Telemedicine has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, especially for chronic conditions like hypertension. Its adoption by PCPs in 35643 is a significant factor in the "Hypertension Score." Telemedicine allows for remote monitoring of blood pressure, medication adjustments, and virtual consultations, increasing patient convenience and potentially improving adherence to treatment plans. Practices that offer telemedicine options, particularly for follow-up appointments and medication management, are likely to score higher.

The integration of mental health resources is another critical aspect. Hypertension is often linked to stress and anxiety, and addressing these issues can significantly impact blood pressure control. Practices that offer on-site mental health services, or have established referral networks with mental health professionals, demonstrate a more holistic approach to patient care. This integration is vital for addressing the underlying causes of hypertension and improving patient outcomes.

Evaluating the quality of care involves looking at patient outcomes. Publicly available data on hypertension control rates (e.g., percentage of patients with controlled blood pressure) within the practices in 35643 is ideal, though often difficult to obtain. If available, this data provides a direct measure of the effectiveness of the care provided. Patient satisfaction surveys and reviews can also offer insights into the patient experience and the perceived quality of care.

Another element to consider is the use of electronic health records (EHRs). EHRs facilitate better coordination of care, medication management, and data tracking. Practices that utilize EHRs effectively are better equipped to monitor patient progress, identify potential problems, and provide timely interventions. The interoperability of EHRs, allowing for seamless information sharing between different providers, is also a plus.

The "Hypertension Score" should also consider the affordability of care. The cost of medications, office visits, and diagnostic tests can be a significant barrier to treatment. Practices that offer affordable payment options, participate in insurance networks, and provide assistance with medication costs are more accessible to patients. Information on the availability of financial assistance programs is also important.

In summary, the "Hypertension Score" for doctors in ZIP Code 35643 and primary care availability in Hillsboro is determined by a complex interplay of factors. These include the physician-to-patient ratio, the geographic distribution of PCPs and specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, the quality of care as measured by patient outcomes and satisfaction, the use of EHRs, and the affordability of care.

To gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Hillsboro and to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides detailed geographic visualizations of healthcare data, allowing you to identify areas with limited access to care, analyze physician distribution, and assess the availability of specialized services. Explore the potential of CartoChrome maps to gain valuable insights into the healthcare environment in 35643.