35772, Stevenson, Alabama Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 35772, Stevenson, Alabama is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.99 percent of the residents in 35772 has some form of health insurance. 43.47 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.82 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 35772 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,138 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35772. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 834 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 516 health care providers accessible to residents in 35772, Stevenson, Alabama.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Stevenson, AL (ZIP Code 35772)

This analysis delves into the landscape of hypertension management within Stevenson, Alabama (ZIP Code 35772), focusing on the availability and quality of primary care services, with specific attention to factors influencing patient outcomes, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and access to mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare environment for individuals managing or at risk of hypertension.

The foundation of effective hypertension control lies in accessible and proactive primary care. In Stevenson, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical factor. Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio requires detailed data, but public health resources and local hospital reports can offer insights. A high ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, could potentially limit access to timely appointments, preventive screenings, and consistent monitoring, all crucial for hypertension management. Conversely, a favorable ratio suggests greater opportunities for regular check-ups and personalized care.

Beyond sheer numbers, the characteristics of primary care practices significantly impact hypertension management. Practices that emphasize preventative care, including routine blood pressure checks, lifestyle counseling (diet, exercise, smoking cessation), and medication management, are vital. The presence of certified diabetes educators, registered dietitians, and other specialists within or affiliated with primary care practices further enhances the quality of care for patients with hypertension, as many also have diabetes. These specialists can provide tailored support and education, leading to better adherence to treatment plans and improved health outcomes.

Standout practices in Stevenson would likely demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive hypertension management. This could involve utilizing electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient data, implement evidence-based guidelines, and facilitate communication between providers. Practices that actively engage patients in their care through patient portals, educational materials, and proactive outreach programs are also likely to achieve better results. The integration of these technological tools streamlines workflows and improves patient engagement.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical aspect of hypertension management in Stevenson. Telemedicine offers several advantages, particularly for patients in rural areas. It can reduce the need for travel, improve access to specialists, and facilitate remote monitoring of blood pressure. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring devices, and secure messaging platforms are better positioned to provide continuous care and support, especially for patients with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. This is particularly important for patients who may find it difficult to attend in-person appointments regularly.

The often-overlooked connection between mental health and hypertension control is crucial. Stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure and adherence to treatment plans. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources in Stevenson is a significant factor in the overall quality of hypertension care. Practices that screen for mental health issues, offer on-site counseling services, or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health providers ensures comprehensive care.

To assess the effectiveness of hypertension management in Stevenson, it is necessary to consider the prevalence of hypertension within the community and the control rates achieved by local healthcare providers. Public health data, such as statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) or the Alabama Department of Public Health, can provide insights into the prevalence of hypertension. Analyzing patient outcomes, such as blood pressure control rates, medication adherence, and the incidence of cardiovascular events, can offer a more detailed picture of the effectiveness of local healthcare practices.

Furthermore, the socioeconomic factors of the community influence hypertension management. Access to healthy food options, safe places for exercise, and affordable medications can significantly affect patient outcomes. Healthcare providers in Stevenson should be aware of these social determinants of health and work to address them through community outreach programs, partnerships with local organizations, and patient education initiatives. Addressing these non-clinical factors can improve patient outcomes.

The overall “Hypertension Score” for Stevenson would be a composite measure, considering all these factors. It would reflect the availability of primary care, the quality of care provided by local practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health services, and the community's social determinants of health. A high score would indicate a strong healthcare environment that supports effective hypertension management, while a low score would highlight areas needing improvement. This score would be dynamic, reflecting changes in the healthcare landscape and the ongoing efforts of healthcare providers to improve patient outcomes.

In conclusion, the effective management of hypertension in Stevenson, AL (ZIP Code 35772) depends on a multifaceted approach. Addressing physician-to-patient ratios, promoting evidence-based practices, embracing telemedicine, integrating mental health services, and addressing socioeconomic factors are all essential components. Understanding the local healthcare environment and the challenges faced by patients and providers is crucial for developing targeted interventions and improving the health of the community.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Stevenson, including the location of primary care practices, telemedicine capabilities, and access to mental health resources, explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. These maps can provide a spatial understanding of healthcare access and help identify areas where resources are most needed.