36009, Brantley, Alabama Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 36009, Brantley, Alabama is 5 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.42 percent of the residents in 36009 has some form of health insurance. 38.20 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.06 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 36009 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 545 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36009. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 450 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 49 health care providers accessible to residents in 36009, Brantley, Alabama.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Brantley, Alabama (ZIP Code 36009)

This analysis examines the landscape of hypertension management within ZIP code 36009, Brantley, Alabama, focusing on the availability of primary care physicians and related resources. The goal is to provide a "Hypertension Score" assessment, reflecting the community's capacity to effectively address and manage hypertension, a critical public health concern. This score considers physician access, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health support, all vital components of comprehensive hypertension care.

Brantley, a rural community, likely faces unique challenges regarding healthcare access. The availability of primary care physicians is the cornerstone of hypertension management. Regular check-ups, screenings, and medication management are essential for controlling blood pressure and preventing complications. A low physician-to-patient ratio is a significant indicator of potential access barriers. If the ratio is unfavorable, residents may face longer wait times for appointments, difficulty establishing a consistent relationship with a primary care physician, and delayed diagnosis and treatment.

Data on the exact physician-to-patient ratio within 36009 is crucial. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or the Alabama Department of Public Health should be consulted. A ratio significantly higher than the national average would negatively impact the Hypertension Score. The analysis needs to determine how many primary care physicians are actively practicing in the area, including general practitioners, internal medicine specialists, and family medicine physicians.

Beyond the raw numbers, the characteristics of the primary care practices are important. Are practices accepting new patients? What are their office hours, and how convenient are they for working individuals? Do they offer evening or weekend appointments? The presence of bilingual staff can also be a significant asset, particularly if the community has a diverse population. Practices that offer comprehensive services, including on-site laboratory testing and pharmacy services, can improve patient convenience and adherence to treatment plans.

Identifying standout practices is a key part of the analysis. These practices would be those demonstrating a commitment to hypertension management. This could include practices that have a high percentage of patients with controlled blood pressure, actively participate in quality improvement initiatives related to hypertension, or have implemented innovative strategies to improve patient outcomes. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively, allowing for data tracking and patient outreach, would also score favorably.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to connect with their physicians remotely for follow-up appointments, medication management, and education. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms and offer virtual visits would receive a higher score. The availability of remote blood pressure monitoring devices, coupled with physician oversight, is another positive indicator.

The link between hypertension and mental health is well-established. Chronic stress and anxiety can contribute to elevated blood pressure, and managing these conditions is crucial for overall health. The availability of mental health resources within the community significantly impacts the Hypertension Score. Are there mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, or licensed clinical social workers, available in Brantley? Are these services accessible and affordable? The presence of integrated behavioral health services within primary care practices would be a particularly strong indicator of a positive environment for hypertension management.

The analysis should also consider the availability of community resources that support hypertension management. This includes access to healthy food options, opportunities for physical activity, and patient education programs. The presence of local support groups for individuals with hypertension or related conditions can also improve the Hypertension Score. Partnerships between primary care practices and community organizations can be a powerful tool for promoting health and wellness.

The final Hypertension Score would be a composite measure, weighting the various factors discussed above. The physician-to-patient ratio would be a major component, as would the characteristics of primary care practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. The score would reflect the overall capacity of the community to effectively address and manage hypertension. A high score would indicate a strong environment for hypertension care, while a low score would highlight areas for improvement.

In conclusion, evaluating the hypertension landscape in Brantley, Alabama (36009) requires a comprehensive assessment of primary care availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide a clear understanding of the community's strengths and weaknesses in managing this critical public health concern. The information gathered will inform decisions and strategies aimed at improving hypertension care and ultimately, the health of the Brantley community.