36272, Piedmont, Alabama Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 36272, Piedmont, Alabama is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.62 percent of the residents in 36272 has some form of health insurance. 42.80 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.37 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 36272 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,796 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36272. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,327 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 123 health care providers accessible to residents in 36272, Piedmont, Alabama.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Piedmont, Alabama (ZIP Code 36272)

Analyzing hypertension management within Piedmont, Alabama (ZIP Code 36272) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the presence of mental health resources, ultimately providing a "Hypertension Score" assessment. While a precise numerical score is beyond the scope of this text, a qualitative ranking reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape is achievable.

The foundation of effective hypertension management lies in accessible primary care. Piedmont, like many rural areas, faces challenges in this regard. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A higher ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, suggests potential difficulties in securing timely appointments and ongoing care. Data from reputable sources such as the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services or state medical boards would be essential to accurately determine the current ratio within ZIP Code 36272. A low ratio would negatively impact the Hypertension Score.

Beyond raw numbers, the characteristics of available primary care practices are crucial. Are the practices accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate varying schedules? Do they have a patient portal for easy communication and access to medical records? Practices that prioritize patient convenience and offer comprehensive services would contribute positively to the Hypertension Score. The presence of on-site laboratory services for blood pressure monitoring and medication management would also be highly beneficial.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly vital, especially in areas with limited access to in-person care. Practices that embrace telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and medication refills, can significantly improve hypertension management. This is particularly relevant for follow-up appointments and medication adjustments, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. A high degree of telemedicine integration would substantially enhance the Hypertension Score.

The link between mental health and hypertension is well-established. Stress and anxiety can elevate blood pressure, making it more difficult to control. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the Piedmont community is a significant factor. This includes access to psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors. Practices that integrate mental health screening and referral services into their hypertension management protocols would contribute positively to the overall Hypertension Score. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health professionals is ideal.

Identifying "standout practices" requires a deeper dive into the local healthcare ecosystem. This involves researching individual practices and evaluating their specific approaches to hypertension management. Do they have dedicated programs for hypertension control? Do they employ certified diabetes educators or other specialists who can assist with lifestyle modifications, such as diet and exercise? Practices that demonstrate a proactive and patient-centered approach to hypertension care would receive a higher rating and positively influence the overall score.

Furthermore, consider the demographics of Piedmont. Are there specific populations within the community, such as elderly residents or those with chronic conditions, who may be at higher risk for hypertension? Understanding the unique needs of the community is essential for tailoring hypertension management strategies. This includes considering cultural sensitivity and language barriers.

Medication adherence is another critical factor. Practices that offer medication counseling, refill reminders, and assistance with prescription costs can significantly improve patient adherence to their prescribed medications. This can lead to better blood pressure control and reduced complications.

The quality of care is also important. Are the practices using evidence-based guidelines for hypertension management? Do they regularly monitor patient outcomes and track blood pressure control rates? Practices that prioritize quality improvement and demonstrate a commitment to providing high-quality care would receive a higher rating.

The availability of community resources is also important. Are there local support groups for individuals with hypertension? Are there programs that promote healthy eating and exercise? A strong network of community resources can provide patients with additional support and education, improving their ability to manage their condition.

In conclusion, assessing the "Hypertension Score" for Piedmont, Alabama (ZIP Code 36272) involves a comprehensive evaluation of primary care availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, mental health resources, and community support. While a precise numerical score requires detailed data analysis, the overall assessment will reflect the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape. The ultimate goal is to identify areas for improvement and promote better hypertension management within the community.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Piedmont, Alabama, and to explore the distribution of physicians, clinics, and other relevant resources, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and interactive view of the area, allowing you to visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the local healthcare environment.