35971, Fyffe, Alabama Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 35971, Fyffe, Alabama is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.40 percent of the residents in 35971 has some form of health insurance. 44.36 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 53.45 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 35971 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,314 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35971. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,060 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 890 health care providers accessible to residents in 35971, Fyffe, Alabama.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Fyffe, Alabama (ZIP Code 35971)

Analyzing hypertension care within Fyffe, Alabama (ZIP Code 35971) necessitates a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will assess the availability of primary care physicians, their practices concerning hypertension management, and the resources available to patients in this rural community. The goal is to provide an informed perspective on the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape regarding hypertension, a prevalent and serious health concern.

The core of this analysis centers on the availability of primary care physicians. Physician-to-patient ratios are critical indicators. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of doctors, can hinder timely access to care, leading to delayed diagnoses and less effective management of conditions like hypertension. Researching the number of active primary care physicians practicing within the 35971 ZIP code and comparing it to the population of Fyffe is the first step. This raw number, however, requires further refinement.

Simply counting physicians isn’t enough. The scope of practice, whether they are accepting new patients, and their specific expertise in hypertension management all need consideration. Some physicians may specialize in other areas, and their focus on hypertension may be limited. Conversely, others might have a particular interest in cardiovascular health and be more adept at managing complex cases. Investigating the specific training and experience of the physicians in the area is essential.

Beyond the individual physician, the structure of the medical practices themselves plays a crucial role. Are the practices well-equipped to handle hypertension? Do they have readily available diagnostic tools like ambulatory blood pressure monitors? Do they offer patient education programs focused on lifestyle modifications, such as diet and exercise, which are vital for controlling hypertension? The presence of registered dietitians, certified diabetes educators, or other allied health professionals within the practices can significantly enhance the quality of care.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor. In rural areas, where geographical barriers can limit access to care, telemedicine can be a game-changer. Does the primary care physician offer virtual consultations or remote monitoring services? This can improve patient convenience and enable more frequent check-ins, which are crucial for managing hypertension. Evaluating the availability of telemedicine platforms and the willingness of physicians to utilize them is essential.

Mental health resources are often overlooked, but they are inextricably linked to hypertension management. Stress and anxiety can significantly impact blood pressure. Does the primary care physician’s practice have connections to mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists or therapists? Are referrals readily available? The integration of mental health services into primary care can improve patient outcomes by addressing the psychological factors that contribute to hypertension.

Analyzing the practices themselves is vital. Identifying any standout practices that excel in hypertension management is a priority. This involves looking for practices that demonstrate a commitment to evidence-based guidelines, patient education, and a holistic approach to care. Are there any practices that have implemented innovative programs, such as group visits for hypertension management or patient support groups? Identifying these model practices can highlight best practices and serve as a benchmark for other providers.

Specific practices within the area should be assessed. This could include researching the services offered by the local clinic and any other primary care facilities in the area. Determining the number of physicians at each practice, their specializations, and the types of services they provide, will help create a clearer picture.

The availability of pharmacy services is another important consideration. Are there local pharmacies that provide medication counseling and blood pressure monitoring services? The proximity of pharmacies and the accessibility of medications are critical factors in ensuring patients can adhere to their treatment plans.

Furthermore, the socioeconomic characteristics of the population in Fyffe must be considered. Factors such as income levels, access to healthy food options, and the prevalence of health insurance coverage can all impact hypertension management. Addressing these social determinants of health is essential for improving patient outcomes.

Ultimately, a comprehensive assessment of hypertension care in Fyffe, Alabama, requires a detailed investigation of several interconnected factors. This includes the availability of primary care physicians, the structure and resources of their practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health services, and the socioeconomic characteristics of the community. By analyzing these factors, we can gain a clear understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape and identify areas for improvement.

To gain a visual representation of this data, and to map the distribution of physicians, practices, and resources in Fyffe and the surrounding areas, we recommend utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a powerful tool for visualizing the healthcare landscape, allowing you to identify areas of high need and optimize healthcare delivery.