35647, Lester, Alabama Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 35647, Lester, Alabama is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.25 percent of the residents in 35647 has some form of health insurance. 32.41 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.03 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 35647 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 378 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35647. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 154 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 721 health care providers accessible to residents in 35647, Lester, Alabama.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Lester, Alabama (ZIP Code 35647)

Analyzing the quality of hypertension care within Lester, Alabama (ZIP code 35647) necessitates a multifaceted approach, encompassing physician availability, the resources offered by primary care practices, and the integration of innovative healthcare delivery methods. This analysis aims to create a "Hypertension Score" reflecting the overall quality of care available to residents, considering key factors influencing hypertension management.

The foundation of effective hypertension management rests on readily accessible primary care. In Lester, the availability of primary care physicians is a critical determinant of the Hypertension Score. This includes not just the number of physicians but also their accessibility, considering factors like appointment wait times, office hours, and the acceptance of various insurance plans. A low physician-to-patient ratio, indicating fewer doctors relative to the population, would negatively impact the score, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses and treatment. Conversely, a higher ratio, combined with accessible practices, would significantly elevate the score.

The presence of primary care practices within the ZIP code is paramount. The quality of these practices is evaluated based on several factors. Firstly, the availability of comprehensive diagnostic tools, such as ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) and readily available lab services, is essential for accurate diagnosis and monitoring of hypertension. Practices equipped with these resources contribute positively to the Hypertension Score.

Secondly, the adoption of evidence-based treatment protocols is crucial. This includes adherence to current guidelines for hypertension management, such as those established by the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology. Practices that actively implement these guidelines, including the use of appropriate medications and lifestyle recommendations, will receive a higher score.

Thirdly, the integration of patient education and support programs is a significant factor. Practices that offer educational materials, provide counseling on lifestyle modifications (diet, exercise, smoking cessation), and offer support groups for patients with hypertension contribute positively to the score. These resources empower patients to actively participate in their care and improve their outcomes.

Beyond the core aspects of primary care, the adoption of telemedicine plays an increasingly important role in hypertension management. Practices that offer telehealth consultations for medication management, follow-up appointments, and remote blood pressure monitoring significantly enhance the accessibility and convenience of care. This can be particularly beneficial for patients with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas, improving their access to timely interventions and follow-up care. The degree of telemedicine integration will influence the Hypertension Score.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to hypertension management. Stress and mental health conditions can significantly impact blood pressure levels. Practices that recognize this connection and offer access to mental health services, either in-house or through referrals, demonstrate a more holistic approach to patient care. This might include offering counseling services, stress management programs, or partnerships with mental health professionals. The availability of these resources will directly impact the Hypertension Score.

Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code is crucial. Practices that demonstrate exceptional performance in hypertension management, as evidenced by patient outcomes, adherence to guidelines, and patient satisfaction, will be highlighted. This might involve analyzing patient data, reviewing practice performance metrics, and gathering patient feedback. These standout practices can serve as models for other providers in the area, contributing to an overall improvement in the quality of care.

The analysis of the Hypertension Score also considers the availability of specialized care. While primary care forms the foundation, access to specialists, such as cardiologists and nephrologists, is essential for patients with complex hypertension or complications. The proximity of these specialists and the ease of referral processes will influence the overall score. A well-coordinated referral network and seamless communication between primary care physicians and specialists are highly desirable.

Furthermore, the analysis considers the availability of pharmacy services. Convenient access to pharmacies, including those that offer medication adherence programs and blood pressure monitoring services, can positively impact patient outcomes. The proximity of pharmacies and the availability of these support services are factored into the Hypertension Score.

The overall Hypertension Score for Lester, Alabama (ZIP code 35647) will be a composite measure, reflecting the weighted average of all these factors. The score will be presented on a scale, allowing for easy comparison and identification of areas for improvement. The score will be dynamic, reflecting changes in physician availability, practice performance, and the adoption of new technologies and resources.

The goal of this analysis is to provide a comprehensive assessment of hypertension care in Lester, Alabama. By identifying strengths and weaknesses, this analysis can inform efforts to improve the quality of care and promote better health outcomes for residents. The analysis will provide a roadmap for healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members to work together to enhance hypertension management in the area.

For a visual representation of physician locations, practice locations, and the distribution of healthcare resources within Lester, Alabama, and to explore the data interactively, we encourage you to utilize CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful platform for visualizing and analyzing geospatial data, providing valuable insights into the landscape of healthcare delivery in your community. Explore the interactive maps and discover the resources available to you and your family.