35980, Horton, Alabama Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 35980, Horton, Alabama is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.79 percent of the residents in 35980 has some form of health insurance. 40.77 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.93 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 35980 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,960 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35980. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 765 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,192 health care providers accessible to residents in 35980, Horton, Alabama.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: ZIP Code 35980 and Horton Primary Care

This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of hypertension management resources and primary care accessibility within ZIP code 35980, encompassing the Horton community. The goal is to assess the landscape of care available to individuals managing or at risk of hypertension, considering factors from physician availability to the integration of innovative healthcare delivery methods. The assessment will inform a "Hypertension Score," a hypothetical metric reflecting the overall quality and accessibility of hypertension-related care.

The foundation of effective hypertension management rests upon accessible primary care. Horton, a small community within ZIP code 35980, presents unique challenges. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is crucial. A low physician-to-patient ratio indicates potential difficulties in securing timely appointments, leading to delayed diagnoses and treatment adjustments. Conversely, a high ratio suggests greater accessibility. The exact physician-to-patient ratio in Horton requires detailed investigation. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and state medical boards can be used to determine the number of PCPs actively practicing within the ZIP code and the estimated population.

Beyond raw numbers, the types of primary care practices present in Horton significantly impact the Hypertension Score. Do the practices include family medicine, internal medicine, or both? Are there specialized clinics focusing on cardiology or endocrinology? The presence of these specialized services improves the overall score, indicating a more comprehensive approach to cardiovascular health. Practices with established protocols for hypertension screening, diagnosis, and ongoing management, including regular blood pressure checks, medication management, and patient education, will score higher.

Several factors can enhance the Hypertension Score. One is the adoption of telemedicine. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, which can be particularly beneficial for those with mobility limitations or residing in geographically isolated areas. Telemedicine appointments are also useful for routine follow-ups, medication adjustments, and patient education, improving adherence to treatment plans. The presence of telemedicine capabilities within primary care practices in Horton significantly boosts the score.

Another critical component of the Hypertension Score is the availability of mental health resources. Hypertension and mental health are often intertwined. Stress, anxiety, and depression can contribute to elevated blood pressure, and the diagnosis and management of hypertension can sometimes lead to emotional distress. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through on-site therapists or referrals to mental health professionals, will receive a higher score. The ability to address the psychological aspects of hypertension management is crucial for patient well-being and adherence to treatment.

The analysis must also examine the practices' commitment to patient education. Do they provide educational materials on lifestyle modifications, such as diet and exercise, which are crucial in managing hypertension? Do they offer support groups or educational programs for patients? Practices that prioritize patient education, ensuring patients understand their condition and treatment plan, will score higher. This proactive approach empowers patients to actively participate in their care.

Identifying standout practices within ZIP code 35980 is vital. Practices demonstrating exceptional patient care, innovative approaches to hypertension management, and a commitment to patient education deserve recognition. This could include practices with a high patient satisfaction rate, a strong track record of blood pressure control, or a demonstrated commitment to preventative care. Publicly available data, patient reviews, and physician referrals can be used to identify these standout practices.

The availability of ancillary services, such as laboratory testing and pharmacy services, also influences the Hypertension Score. Practices that offer convenient access to these services, either on-site or through partnerships with local providers, will score higher. This streamlines the patient experience and improves the efficiency of care.

The analysis should also consider the cost of care. The affordability of healthcare services is a significant factor in patient access. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans and offer affordable payment options will contribute to a higher Hypertension Score. Transparency in pricing and the availability of financial assistance programs are also important considerations.

Furthermore, the analysis should investigate the practices' use of electronic health records (EHRs). EHRs can improve care coordination, facilitate data sharing, and enhance the efficiency of clinical workflows. Practices that utilize EHRs effectively, including the ability to track patient data, generate reports, and communicate with patients electronically, will score higher.

The impact of community resources on the Hypertension Score is also important. The presence of community health centers, free clinics, and other resources that provide access to healthcare services for underserved populations can significantly improve the overall score. These resources can help to address health disparities and ensure that all residents have access to the care they need.

In conclusion, assessing the Hypertension Score for ZIP code 35980, particularly in Horton, requires a multi-faceted approach. It involves evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, the types of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, patient education initiatives, and the cost and accessibility of care. This comprehensive analysis will provide a valuable snapshot of the healthcare landscape and highlight areas for improvement.

To visualize this data and gain a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful tool for visualizing the location of primary care practices, pharmacies, and other relevant resources within ZIP code 35980, providing a visual representation of the Hypertension Score factors and their impact on the community.