36029, Fitzpatrick, Alabama Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 36029, Fitzpatrick, Alabama is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.74 percent of the residents in 36029 has some form of health insurance. 39.14 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.50 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 36029 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 257 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36029. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 261 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 363 health care providers accessible to residents in 36029, Fitzpatrick, Alabama.

**Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 36029 & Primary Care Availability in Fitzpatrick**

Analyzing the healthcare landscape within ZIP Code 36029, encompassing Fitzpatrick, requires a multifaceted approach. We need to assess the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs), gauge their capacity to manage hypertension, and evaluate the supporting resources available to patients. This analysis will culminate in a "Hypertension Score," a composite measure reflecting the overall quality and accessibility of hypertension care in the region.

The cornerstone of hypertension management lies with primary care. The physician-to-patient ratio within 36029 is a critical starting point. Publicly available data, such as that provided by the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA), can offer insights into the number of practicing PCPs within the ZIP code. These figures, when compared to the population of Fitzpatrick, provide a preliminary understanding of access. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, raises concerns about appointment availability and the potential for delayed care. Conversely, a high ratio suggests better access, though it doesn't guarantee quality.

The "Hypertension Score" will also consider the specific practices within 36029. We'll look for standout practices that demonstrate a commitment to hypertension management. This involves examining their patient demographics, the types of services offered, and their adherence to evidence-based guidelines. Practices actively participating in initiatives like the CDC's Million Hearts program, which focuses on preventing heart attacks and strokes, would likely receive higher scores. The presence of certified hypertension specialists within a practice would also be a significant positive indicator.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and medication management via telehealth can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas like Fitzpatrick. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, providing convenient and accessible care options, will be recognized. This includes assessing the ease of scheduling virtual appointments, the availability of patient portals for communication, and the integration of remote monitoring devices.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to hypertension management. Stress and anxiety can elevate blood pressure, and patients with hypertension often experience psychological distress related to their condition. Practices that integrate mental health services, either directly or through referrals to local therapists and psychiatrists, will be viewed favorably. This could include on-site counseling, partnerships with mental health providers, or educational programs addressing stress management techniques.

The "Hypertension Score" will be calculated using a weighted scoring system. The physician-to-patient ratio will be assigned a weight reflecting its importance as a baseline indicator of access. The presence of certified hypertension specialists, adherence to evidence-based guidelines, and participation in quality improvement programs will contribute to the score. Telemedicine adoption and the integration of mental health resources will also be weighted, reflecting their impact on patient care.

The final score will be presented on a scale, allowing for a clear comparison of practices within 36029. Practices with higher scores will be identified as leaders in hypertension management, while those with lower scores will be encouraged to improve their services. This score will serve as a valuable tool for patients seeking primary care in Fitzpatrick, helping them make informed decisions about their healthcare.

Beyond individual practices, the overall healthcare infrastructure in Fitzpatrick plays a role. The availability of pharmacies for medication access is essential. The presence of local hospitals and emergency services is also important, particularly for patients experiencing hypertensive crises. The "Hypertension Score" will indirectly consider these factors, as they contribute to the overall quality of care within the region.

The analysis will also consider the demographics of the Fitzpatrick population. Factors like age, race, and socioeconomic status can influence hypertension prevalence and the challenges patients face in accessing care. The "Hypertension Score" will acknowledge these factors, recognizing that some practices may face greater challenges in serving their patient populations.

Data collection for this analysis will involve a combination of methods. Publicly available data from sources like the HRSA and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) will be utilized. Practice websites and online directories will be reviewed to gather information on services offered and telemedicine adoption. Patient reviews and feedback, where available, will provide valuable insights into patient experiences.

The "Hypertension Score" is not a static measure. It will be updated periodically to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. This will ensure that the information remains relevant and useful to patients and healthcare providers. The ongoing evaluation will also allow for the identification of best practices and the dissemination of knowledge to improve hypertension management in Fitzpatrick.

The process of compiling and analyzing this data is complex. It requires careful consideration of various factors, from physician availability to the integration of mental health services. The goal is to create a comprehensive and objective assessment of hypertension care in 36029.

The ultimate aim of this "Hypertension Score" analysis is to empower patients and improve healthcare outcomes. By providing a clear picture of the available resources and the quality of care, patients can make informed decisions about their health. This, in turn, can lead to better blood pressure control, reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, and improved overall well-being for the residents of Fitzpatrick.

To further explore the healthcare landscape in 36029 and visualize the data used in this analysis, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and patient demographics, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping tools that can help you gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in Fitzpatrick.