36006, Billingsley, Alabama Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 36006, Billingsley, Alabama is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.38 percent of the residents in 36006 has some form of health insurance. 32.52 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.94 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 36006 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 337 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36006. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 412 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 39 health care providers accessible to residents in 36006, Billingsley, Alabama.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: ZIP Code 36006 & Billingsley Primary Care

This analysis provides a comprehensive evaluation of hypertension management resources and primary care availability within ZIP Code 36006, encompassing Billingsley, Alabama. The assessment focuses on key factors influencing hypertension control, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health support, ultimately culminating in a hypertension score. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the healthcare landscape, identifying strengths and weaknesses in the fight against hypertension within this specific geographic area.

The foundation of effective hypertension management rests on accessible primary care. In Billingsley, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A lower ratio, signifying more physicians per capita, generally translates to improved access to care, including regular check-ups, medication management, and lifestyle counseling – all essential components of hypertension control. Conversely, a higher ratio may indicate longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. The exact physician-to-patient ratio in 36006, and specifically within Billingsley, is difficult to ascertain precisely without access to current, granular datasets. However, publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) can offer estimates. These estimates, coupled with local knowledge from community health organizations, are vital for accurately assessing the burden on existing primary care providers.

Analyzing the characteristics of primary care practices within the ZIP code is crucial. The size of a practice, whether it's a solo practitioner or a large group, can impact patient access. Larger practices often have more resources, including specialized staff like nurses and dietitians, and may offer extended hours or weekend appointments. The presence of on-site pharmacies or laboratory services further enhances convenience and can improve patient adherence to medication regimens. Examining the types of insurance accepted by these practices is equally important. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, ensure that a broader segment of the population has access to care.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor. The use of telemedicine, including virtual consultations and remote patient monitoring, has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine can overcome geographical barriers, allowing patients in Billingsley to connect with their physicians remotely for follow-up appointments, medication refills, and even initial consultations. Practices that actively utilize telemedicine platforms are likely to improve patient engagement and adherence to treatment plans. The availability of remote blood pressure monitoring devices, coupled with telemedicine capabilities, can provide physicians with valuable data to monitor their patients’ blood pressure levels and adjust treatment accordingly.

The link between mental health and hypertension is well-established. Stress, anxiety, and depression can all contribute to elevated blood pressure. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the community is a significant factor in hypertension management. This includes access to psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and support groups. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models, either through on-site providers or referrals to external resources, are better positioned to address the holistic needs of their patients. Examining the availability of these resources, including their accessibility and affordability, is essential for a comprehensive assessment.

Standout practices within ZIP Code 36006 deserve special recognition. These practices may demonstrate excellence in several areas, such as patient outcomes, patient satisfaction, or innovative approaches to hypertension management. Identifying these exemplary practices can provide valuable insights and best practices that other providers can emulate. This requires analyzing patient reviews, assessing quality metrics, and conducting interviews with healthcare professionals to gain a deeper understanding of their approaches and successes.

The hypertension score itself is a composite measure, incorporating all the factors discussed above. It reflects the overall capacity of the healthcare system within ZIP Code 36006 to effectively manage hypertension. The score is not a static number but rather a dynamic reflection of the healthcare landscape. The methodology for calculating the score would involve assigning weights to each factor based on its relative importance. For example, physician-to-patient ratio and access to primary care might carry the highest weight, followed by telemedicine adoption and mental health resources. The final score would then be used to rank the area's performance relative to other regions or to track progress over time.

The final score is not the only measure of success. The overall health of the community is also affected by access to healthy food options, opportunities for physical activity, and social determinants of health. Addressing these wider social factors is essential for long-term improvements in hypertension control. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government is crucial for developing and implementing comprehensive strategies.

In conclusion, assessing the resources available for hypertension management in ZIP Code 36006, specifically Billingsley, requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, analyzing practice characteristics, assessing telemedicine adoption, and examining the availability of mental health resources. The resulting hypertension score provides a valuable tool for identifying strengths and weaknesses and for guiding efforts to improve hypertension control within the community.

For a visual representation of this data, including a geographic mapping of physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to resources, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. Their interactive platform allows for a detailed visualization of the healthcare landscape, providing valuable insights for healthcare professionals, community leaders, and residents alike.