35967, Fort Payne, Alabama Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 35967, Fort Payne, Alabama is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.82 percent of the residents in 35967 has some form of health insurance. 39.70 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.79 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 35967 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,463 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35967. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,904 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 885 health care providers accessible to residents in 35967, Fort Payne, Alabama.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Fort Payne, Alabama (ZIP Code 35967)

Fort Payne, Alabama, nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, presents a unique healthcare landscape for its residents. This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care, specifically focusing on factors relevant to hypertension management within the 35967 ZIP code. We will assess the physician-to-patient ratio, examine standout practices, explore telemedicine adoption, and consider the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in controlling and treating hypertension.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Fort Payne is a critical starting point. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of primary care physicians, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnosis and treatment of conditions like hypertension. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and the Alabama Department of Public Health will be essential in determining the current ratio within the 35967 ZIP code. This data needs to be current, reflecting any recent changes in physician availability due to retirements, relocations, or new practices opening. The analysis should also consider the age distribution of the population, as an aging population generally requires more healthcare services, potentially exacerbating the impact of a low physician-to-patient ratio.

Identifying standout primary care practices in Fort Payne is vital. These practices often demonstrate superior performance in hypertension management, potentially through a combination of factors. This includes utilizing evidence-based guidelines for diagnosis and treatment, employing a multidisciplinary approach involving nurses, dietitians, and other healthcare professionals, and proactively engaging patients in their care. Practices that consistently achieve high blood pressure control rates, as measured by patient outcomes data, deserve recognition. The analysis will consider factors such as the availability of on-site diagnostic testing, the use of electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient data and facilitate communication, and the implementation of patient education programs. The analysis should also consider patient reviews and satisfaction scores, as these can provide valuable insights into the patient experience and the quality of care provided.

Telemedicine adoption has the potential to significantly improve hypertension management in rural areas like Fort Payne. Telemedicine allows patients to access care remotely, reducing the need for travel and overcoming geographical barriers. The analysis will investigate the extent to which primary care practices in the 35967 ZIP code utilize telemedicine for hypertension management. This includes examining the availability of virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and the use of telehealth platforms for patient education and medication management. The analysis should also consider the types of telemedicine platforms being used, their ease of use, and their integration with existing EHR systems. The success of telemedicine adoption will depend on factors such as internet access in the area, patient comfort with technology, and the availability of training for both patients and providers.

The link between mental health and hypertension is well-established. Stress, anxiety, and depression can contribute to elevated blood pressure and make it more difficult to manage hypertension. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources in Fort Payne is a crucial factor in the overall effectiveness of hypertension management. The analysis will assess the availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed counselors, within the 35967 ZIP code. This will involve examining the number of mental health providers per capita, the types of services offered, and the availability of mental health resources within primary care practices. The analysis should also consider the accessibility of these resources, including wait times for appointments, insurance coverage, and the availability of telehealth options for mental health services. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health professionals is essential to provide comprehensive care for patients with hypertension and co-occurring mental health conditions.

Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Alabama Department of Public Health will be utilized to determine the prevalence of hypertension in the 35967 ZIP code. This information will be compared to state and national averages to identify any disparities in hypertension rates. The analysis will also consider the demographic characteristics of the population, such as age, race, and socioeconomic status, as these factors can influence the risk of developing hypertension. By understanding the prevalence of hypertension and the factors that contribute to it, healthcare providers can develop targeted interventions to improve patient outcomes.

The availability of resources to support healthy lifestyles is also crucial for hypertension management. This includes access to healthy food options, opportunities for physical activity, and patient education programs. The analysis will consider the availability of these resources within the 35967 ZIP code, including the presence of grocery stores with fresh produce, parks and recreational facilities, and community-based programs that promote healthy eating and exercise. Patient education plays a critical role in empowering individuals to manage their hypertension effectively. Practices that offer comprehensive patient education programs, including information on medication adherence, lifestyle modifications, and self-monitoring of blood pressure, are more likely to achieve positive patient outcomes.

The final Hypertension Score for Fort Payne will be a composite measure, taking into account all the factors discussed above. This score will provide a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare landscape for hypertension management in the 35967 ZIP code. The score will be based on a weighted average of the various factors, with each factor assigned a weight based on its relative importance. This score can be used to identify areas of strength and weakness in the healthcare system and to guide efforts to improve hypertension management.

To visualize this data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Fort Payne and across the state, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps allow you to see the distribution of healthcare resources, physician-to-patient ratios, and other relevant data, providing valuable insights for healthcare professionals, policymakers, and individuals seeking care.