35810, Huntsville, Alabama Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 35810, Huntsville, Alabama is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.35 percent of the residents in 35810 has some form of health insurance. 48.74 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 51.94 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 35810 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 8,467 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35810. An estimate of 6 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,816 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 9,653 health care providers accessible to residents in 35810, Huntsville, Alabama.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Huntsville, AL (ZIP Code 35810)

Analyzing hypertension care within Huntsville's 35810 ZIP code necessitates a multi-faceted approach. We must consider the availability of primary care physicians, the quality of their services, and the surrounding resources that support effective hypertension management. This analysis will explore these factors, providing a "Hypertension Score" assessment and highlighting key areas for improvement.

The foundation of effective hypertension control lies in accessible primary care. The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial metric. In 35810, the ideal ratio would be a physician for every 1,000-1,500 patients, ensuring manageable caseloads and adequate time for patient care. Data from the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners and local healthcare networks is essential to determine the actual ratio. A higher ratio (fewer physicians per patient) indicates potential challenges in accessing timely appointments and comprehensive care.

Beyond simple availability, the quality of primary care is paramount. This includes the experience and expertise of the physicians, their adherence to evidence-based guidelines for hypertension treatment, and the availability of supporting services. Practices that prioritize patient education, offer comprehensive lifestyle counseling (diet, exercise, stress management), and proactively monitor patient progress through regular check-ups and medication management will likely achieve better outcomes.

Standout practices in 35810 should be identified based on their commitment to these principles. These practices might be recognized for their high patient satisfaction scores, low rates of uncontrolled hypertension, and innovative approaches to patient care. Researching local patient reviews, analyzing publicly available data on clinical outcomes, and consulting with local healthcare advocacy groups can reveal these exemplary practices.

Telemedicine adoption presents a significant opportunity to improve hypertension management, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in underserved areas. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and online patient portals can enhance access to care and improve patient adherence to treatment plans. The "Hypertension Score" should reflect the extent of telemedicine integration within the practices of 35810.

Mental health is inextricably linked to hypertension. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly elevate blood pressure and hinder treatment effectiveness. The availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through readily accessible referrals is critical. Practices that integrate behavioral health specialists, offer stress management programs, or have established partnerships with mental health providers are better positioned to provide holistic care. The "Hypertension Score" should consider the accessibility and integration of these mental health resources.

The infrastructure supporting hypertension management extends beyond the physician's office. The availability of affordable medications, access to healthy food options, and safe environments for physical activity all contribute to successful blood pressure control. The "Hypertension Score" should consider the availability of these resources within the 35810 ZIP code. This includes assessing the presence of pharmacies with affordable generic medications, the availability of grocery stores with healthy food options, and the presence of parks and recreational facilities.

Analyzing the data requires a comprehensive approach. Public health data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Alabama Department of Public Health, and local healthcare organizations can provide valuable insights. This data should be combined with information gathered from local healthcare providers, patient surveys, and community health assessments.

The "Hypertension Score" is not a static number; it's a dynamic assessment that reflects the current state of hypertension care within 35810. It should be regularly updated to reflect changes in physician availability, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and community support systems. The score should be easily understandable and accessible to both healthcare providers and patients, enabling informed decision-making and facilitating improvements in hypertension management.

In conclusion, improving hypertension care in 35810 requires a collaborative effort. Physicians, healthcare organizations, community leaders, and patients must work together to address the challenges and capitalize on the opportunities. By focusing on physician availability, practice quality, telemedicine integration, mental health resources, and community support, Huntsville can significantly improve the health and well-being of its residents.

For a visual representation of the hypertension care landscape in Huntsville, including physician locations, access to resources, and demographic data, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their mapping tools can provide valuable insights into the distribution of resources and identify areas for targeted intervention.