36205, Anniston, Alabama Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 36205, Anniston, Alabama is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 70.10 percent of the residents in 36205 has some form of health insurance. 54.27 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 38.74 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 36205 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 194 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36205. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 199 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 810 health care providers accessible to residents in 36205, Anniston, Alabama.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Anniston, AL (ZIP Code 36205)

This analysis assesses the quality of hypertension management within ZIP code 36205 (Anniston, AL), focusing on primary care physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the presence of mental health resources. A comprehensive "Hypertension Score" isn't a singular metric, but rather a composite evaluation based on the factors detailed below. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare landscape for individuals managing hypertension.

The foundation of effective hypertension care rests on accessible primary care. In Anniston, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. While exact numbers fluctuate, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a significant concern. A low ratio, meaning fewer PCPs per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment initiation. This, in turn, can negatively impact blood pressure control and increase the risk of cardiovascular complications. The analysis considers the number of active PCPs within the ZIP code, including internal medicine, family medicine, and general practitioners, alongside the estimated population served. Public health data, insurance provider networks, and local hospital affiliations are key data sources for this assessment.

Standout practices in Anniston are those demonstrating excellence in hypertension management. This includes clinics that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, such as the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) recognition programs. Practices implementing evidence-based guidelines, like those from the American Heart Association (AHA) and the American College of Cardiology (ACC), are prioritized. The assessment also considers the use of electronic health records (EHRs) and their integration with patient portals, allowing for improved communication, medication adherence monitoring, and remote blood pressure tracking. Practices with dedicated staff, such as certified diabetes educators or registered dietitians, who can provide specialized support for lifestyle modifications, are also viewed favorably.

Telemedicine adoption is a crucial element in modern healthcare, particularly in areas with limited access to care. The analysis evaluates the extent to which Anniston practices utilize telemedicine for hypertension management. This includes the availability of virtual consultations for medication management, blood pressure monitoring, and patient education. Practices offering remote patient monitoring (RPM) programs, where patients can transmit blood pressure readings and other vital signs to their providers, receive higher scores. The ease of access to telemedicine platforms, the technical support provided to patients, and the integration of telemedicine data into the EHR are also considered.

The complex interplay between hypertension and mental health necessitates the inclusion of mental health resource availability. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure control. The analysis evaluates the proximity and accessibility of mental health services, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed therapists. The presence of integrated behavioral health services within primary care practices is highly valued. This allows for a more holistic approach to patient care, addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of hypertension. The availability of support groups, educational resources, and mental health awareness programs within the community are also factored into the overall assessment.

The "Hypertension Score" for Anniston, AL (36205) is not a single numerical value but a qualitative assessment based on the factors discussed above. A higher score indicates a more favorable environment for hypertension management, characterized by greater access to primary care, the adoption of best practices, robust telemedicine capabilities, and readily available mental health resources. A lower score suggests potential challenges in these areas, highlighting the need for improvements to optimize patient outcomes.

The analysis also considers factors such as insurance coverage acceptance, the availability of language services for non-English speakers, and the presence of transportation assistance for patients. These elements can significantly impact access to care and, consequently, blood pressure control. The goal is to provide a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape, going beyond simple metrics to capture the complexity of hypertension management in Anniston.

This analysis is designed to inform and empower individuals managing hypertension in Anniston. It aims to highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system, providing valuable insights for patients seeking care and for healthcare providers striving to improve their services. The findings can also be used to identify areas for improvement and to advocate for resources that will enhance the quality of hypertension management in the community.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Anniston and to identify specific practices and resources, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. CartoChrome’s maps allow you to visualize physician locations, healthcare facility proximity, and other relevant data points, providing a powerful tool for navigating the healthcare system and making informed decisions about your health.