35648, Lexington, Alabama Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 35648, Lexington, Alabama is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.56 percent of the residents in 35648 has some form of health insurance. 35.43 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 77.11 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 35648 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 738 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35648. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 659 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,147 health care providers accessible to residents in 35648, Lexington, Alabama.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Lexington, AL (ZIP Code 35648)

This analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of hypertension management resources and primary care accessibility within the Lexington, Alabama area, specifically focusing on ZIP code 35648. The evaluation considers factors crucial for effective hypertension control, including physician availability, practice characteristics, technological integration, and the availability of mental health support. This information aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape for individuals managing hypertension and those seeking care in Lexington.

The foundation of effective hypertension management rests on accessible primary care. Within ZIP code 35648, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. While precise, real-time ratios are difficult to obtain publicly, understanding the approximate density of primary care physicians (PCPs) per capita is essential. Researching local healthcare directories, insurance provider networks, and publicly available data from the Alabama Department of Public Health can offer insights into the number of PCPs serving the area. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of PCPs, could pose a significant barrier to timely appointments, regular check-ups, and ongoing monitoring, all vital for hypertension control. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility and potentially shorter wait times.

Beyond the sheer number of physicians, the characteristics of the primary care practices themselves significantly impact hypertension management. Practices that prioritize preventative care, offer comprehensive services, and have a patient-centered approach are more likely to achieve positive outcomes. Analyzing the types of practices available is crucial. Are there solo practitioners, group practices, or larger healthcare systems represented? Group practices often offer advantages such as extended hours, specialized expertise, and the ability to share resources. Furthermore, the availability of on-site diagnostic services, such as blood pressure monitoring, electrocardiograms (ECGs), and laboratory testing, streamlines the diagnostic and management process, improving patient convenience and potentially reducing delays in treatment.

Standout practices within the Lexington area should be identified based on their commitment to hypertension management. This requires a review of online patient reviews, practice websites, and information from local healthcare organizations. Practices that actively promote patient education, offer personalized treatment plans, and utilize evidence-based guidelines are more likely to be successful. Identifying practices that have implemented quality improvement initiatives related to hypertension, such as regular blood pressure screenings, medication adherence programs, and patient education materials, is particularly valuable. These practices often demonstrate a proactive approach to managing hypertension and achieving optimal patient outcomes.

The adoption of telemedicine represents a significant advancement in healthcare delivery, particularly for chronic conditions like hypertension. Telemedicine allows patients to remotely monitor their blood pressure, receive virtual consultations, and access educational resources from the comfort of their homes. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services among primary care practices in Lexington is crucial. Practices that offer telemedicine capabilities can improve access to care, reduce the need for in-person visits, and enhance patient engagement. This is particularly beneficial for patients with mobility limitations, transportation challenges, or those living in rural areas.

The link between mental health and hypertension is well-established. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can contribute to elevated blood pressure and make it more difficult to manage the condition. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the Lexington area is a vital component of a comprehensive hypertension management strategy. Assessing the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is essential. Practices that integrate mental health services into their primary care settings, or have established referral pathways to mental health providers, are better equipped to address the psychological factors that can impact hypertension control.

Furthermore, the presence of community-based mental health resources, such as support groups, educational programs, and crisis intervention services, can provide additional support for patients. These resources can help patients cope with stress, manage their emotions, and develop healthy coping mechanisms. Identifying and promoting these resources can improve the overall well-being of individuals with hypertension.

In conclusion, evaluating the healthcare landscape in Lexington, Alabama (ZIP code 35648) for hypertension management involves a multi-faceted approach. Analyzing physician-to-patient ratios, evaluating practice characteristics, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and evaluating the availability of mental health resources are all crucial components of a comprehensive assessment. This detailed analysis helps paint a picture of the resources available to individuals and highlights the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system. This understanding allows for informed decision-making by patients and healthcare providers, ultimately improving the management and control of hypertension within the community.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Lexington, AL, including the location of primary care practices, mental health resources, and other relevant data, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and interactive view of the healthcare resources in your area, helping you to make informed decisions about your health and well-being.