35752, Hollywood, Alabama Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 35752, Hollywood, Alabama is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.72 percent of the residents in 35752 has some form of health insurance. 40.17 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.24 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 35752 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 420 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35752. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 398 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 588 health care providers accessible to residents in 35752, Hollywood, Alabama.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Hollywood, AL (ZIP Code 35752)

Analyzing the landscape of hypertension care in Hollywood, Alabama (ZIP code 35752) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians, their capacity to manage hypertension, and the supporting resources available to patients. The goal is to generate a "Hypertension Score" reflecting the overall effectiveness of the healthcare ecosystem in addressing this critical health concern.

The foundation of hypertension management rests on accessible primary care. Within ZIP code 35752, a crucial factor is the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can strain resources, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced time spent with each patient. This can negatively impact the early detection and consistent monitoring essential for effective hypertension control. Accurate data on the exact physician-to-patient ratio within the specified ZIP code is essential. Publicly available resources, such as those provided by the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA), and state medical board databases, can provide this information. A higher ratio, indicating more physicians per population, is generally correlated with better access to care.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care practices significantly impacts hypertension management. Some practices may stand out due to their proactive approach to hypertension. They might implement robust screening programs, utilizing automated blood pressure monitoring in the office, and employing electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient data and streamline medication management. These practices often have dedicated staff, like nurses or medical assistants, who specialize in patient education and support. The "Hypertension Score" should consider these factors, recognizing practices that actively engage in patient education about lifestyle modifications (diet, exercise, stress management) and medication adherence.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial element of the "Hypertension Score." The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and medication refills via telehealth platforms can greatly improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Practices that have embraced telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and proactive management. This is particularly relevant in managing chronic conditions like hypertension, where regular monitoring and medication adjustments are often required. Telemedicine can facilitate more frequent check-ins and prevent complications.

Furthermore, the availability of mental health resources directly impacts hypertension management. Chronic stress and anxiety are known contributors to elevated blood pressure. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through on-site therapists or referral networks, demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care. The "Hypertension Score" must acknowledge the importance of addressing the psychological aspects of hypertension. This includes access to counseling, stress-reduction techniques, and support groups. A patient's overall well-being significantly influences their ability to manage their condition effectively.

The analysis must also consider the availability of specialized services. While primary care is the cornerstone, access to cardiology specialists is crucial for patients with complex cases or those who require advanced interventions. The proximity of cardiologists and the ease with which patients can be referred to them are important considerations. The "Hypertension Score" should account for the presence of specialist access, ensuring patients receive the appropriate level of care when needed.

Medication accessibility is another critical component. The "Hypertension Score" needs to assess the availability of affordable medications. This includes the presence of pharmacies within the ZIP code, the availability of generic medications, and the practice's ability to assist patients with medication costs and insurance coverage. Practices that proactively address medication affordability contribute to better patient outcomes.

The "Hypertension Score" should be a dynamic measure, reflecting changes in the healthcare landscape. It should be updated regularly to account for new practices, telemedicine adoption, and changes in the availability of resources. Data collection should be ongoing, using a combination of publicly available information, practice surveys, and patient feedback. The score should not be a static number but a comprehensive assessment that can guide improvements in hypertension care.

Finally, the "Hypertension Score" must be transparent and easily understood by both healthcare providers and patients. The methodology used to calculate the score should be clearly explained, and the results should be presented in a user-friendly format. This allows providers to identify areas for improvement and patients to make informed decisions about their care.

In conclusion, assessing hypertension care in Hollywood, Alabama (ZIP code 35752) requires a comprehensive evaluation of primary care access, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, specialist availability, and medication affordability. This "Hypertension Score" should be a dynamic tool that drives improvements in patient care and helps ensure that residents of Hollywood have access to the best possible care for this prevalent and serious health condition.

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