36117, Montgomery, Alabama Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 36117, Montgomery, Alabama is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.87 percent of the residents in 36117 has some form of health insurance. 30.34 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.28 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 36117 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 14,157 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36117. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 7,200 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,825 health care providers accessible to residents in 36117, Montgomery, Alabama.

**Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 36117 and Primary Care Availability in Montgomery, Alabama**

This analysis provides an in-depth assessment of hypertension care within ZIP code 36117 in Montgomery, Alabama, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care physicians, crucial for managing this prevalent condition. We will examine various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, all contributing to a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" evaluation. This score is not a single number but a composite assessment of the overall landscape of care.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of access to care. In Montgomery, and specifically within 36117, the availability of primary care physicians significantly impacts the ability of residents to receive timely screenings, diagnoses, and ongoing management of hypertension. A lower physician-to-patient ratio generally indicates better access, leading to improved patient outcomes. Data from the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners, combined with population estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau, allows for a preliminary assessment of this ratio. However, this is just the starting point. The actual impact of this ratio depends on factors like insurance acceptance, appointment availability, and patient demographics.

Standout practices within 36117 are those that demonstrate excellence in hypertension management. These practices often employ evidence-based guidelines, such as those from the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology, to guide their treatment protocols. They might utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively, enabling better tracking of patient data, medication adherence, and blood pressure control. Furthermore, these practices typically emphasize patient education, empowering individuals to actively participate in their care through lifestyle modifications, such as diet and exercise, which are critical components of hypertension management. Identifying these standout practices requires a thorough review of patient satisfaction surveys, clinical outcomes data, and physician certifications.

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly important in healthcare delivery, particularly for chronic conditions like hypertension. Telemedicine allows patients to remotely consult with their physicians, monitor their blood pressure at home, and receive medication adjustments without requiring in-person visits. This is especially beneficial for patients with mobility issues, transportation challenges, or those living in underserved areas. The level of telemedicine adoption within 36117 varies across practices. Some practices may offer virtual visits, remote blood pressure monitoring, and online patient portals, while others may lag behind. Evaluating the extent of telemedicine integration requires assessing the availability of virtual appointment options, the use of remote monitoring devices, and the accessibility of online patient portals.

The integration of mental health resources is another critical aspect of hypertension care. Research has shown a strong link between mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression, and hypertension. Stress can elevate blood pressure, and managing mental health issues can significantly improve hypertension control. Practices that recognize this connection and integrate mental health services into their care models are likely to achieve better patient outcomes. This integration might involve on-site mental health professionals, referrals to mental health specialists, or the use of screening tools to identify patients with mental health needs. Assessing the level of integration involves examining the availability of mental health services, the use of screening tools, and the collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health professionals.

The "Hypertension Score" for 36117 is not a static number but a dynamic assessment. It reflects the quality of care, the availability of resources, and the overall effectiveness of the healthcare system in managing hypertension. A high score indicates a well-resourced system with readily accessible primary care physicians, effective telemedicine adoption, and integrated mental health services. A lower score highlights areas for improvement, such as physician shortages, limited telemedicine options, and a lack of mental health integration. The score is built on several layers of data analysis.

The assessment process involves collecting data from various sources, including the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners, the U.S. Census Bureau, insurance providers, and healthcare practices. This data is then analyzed to determine the physician-to-patient ratio, the level of telemedicine adoption, the integration of mental health resources, and the overall quality of care. The data analysis will be performed with a focus on the specific needs of the population within 36117.

The analysis also considers the demographics of the population within 36117. Factors such as age, race, socioeconomic status, and health insurance coverage can significantly impact access to care and the prevalence of hypertension. Understanding these demographic factors is crucial for tailoring interventions and ensuring equitable access to care for all residents. For instance, areas with a higher percentage of elderly residents might require more emphasis on medication management and home health services.

The findings of this analysis can inform decision-making by healthcare providers, policymakers, and residents of 36117. Healthcare providers can use the information to identify areas for improvement within their practices, such as expanding telemedicine options or integrating mental health services. Policymakers can use the data to allocate resources effectively, address physician shortages, and promote initiatives that improve hypertension care. Residents can use the information to make informed decisions about their healthcare and advocate for better access to care within their community.

The "Hypertension Score" is a dynamic tool that can be updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. As new data becomes available and healthcare practices evolve, the score can be adjusted to provide a more accurate and up-to-date assessment of hypertension care in 36117. This ongoing evaluation is crucial for ensuring that the healthcare system continues to meet the needs of the community and improve patient outcomes.

The information gathered in this analysis, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and resource availability, can be visualized using interactive maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a user-friendly platform for exploring the data and identifying areas with high and low access to care.

**Call to Action:**

For a visual representation of the data and to explore the landscape of hypertension care in 36117 and Montgomery, visit CartoChrome maps. Discover the power of data visualization and empower yourself with the knowledge to navigate the healthcare system effectively.