36343, Gordon, Alabama Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 36343, Gordon, Alabama is 88 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.23 percent of the residents in 36343 has some form of health insurance. 48.85 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.46 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 36343 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 205 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36343. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 299 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,091 health care providers accessible to residents in 36343, Gordon, Alabama.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 36343 & Primary Care in Gordon, AL

Analyzing the availability and quality of primary care physicians in Gordon, Alabama (ZIP Code 36343) is crucial for understanding the community's ability to manage hypertension, a widespread and serious health concern. This analysis will provide a "Hypertension Score" perspective, evaluating factors that directly impact the diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management of high blood pressure. We will examine physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and explore the availability of mental health resources, all within the context of this specific geographic area.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a fundamental indicator of access to care. A low ratio, signifying a greater number of patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially, delayed diagnoses or inadequate follow-up care. Data from the U.S. Census Bureau and the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners, when cross-referenced with local practice information, can help determine this ratio within ZIP Code 36343. Further investigation should include the specialties of the available physicians, ensuring a sufficient number of primary care providers (PCPs) are available to address hypertension management.

Identifying standout practices within Gordon is vital. This involves assessing several key metrics. Practices that consistently demonstrate excellence in hypertension management often have robust systems for patient education, medication adherence monitoring, and regular blood pressure checks. They may also implement comprehensive electronic health record (EHR) systems that facilitate efficient data tracking and communication between providers. Furthermore, practices with a strong focus on preventative care, including lifestyle counseling and early intervention strategies, are more likely to achieve positive patient outcomes. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives and adhere to evidence-based guidelines should be prioritized.

Telemedicine adoption represents a significant opportunity to improve access to care, particularly in rural areas like Gordon. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving adherence to treatment plans. The analysis should assess the extent to which local practices offer telemedicine services, including virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and medication management support. Practices that have embraced telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and may be better positioned to serve a wider patient population, including those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. The availability of reliable internet connectivity within the community is also a crucial factor in the success of telemedicine initiatives.

The link between hypertension and mental health is well-established. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure levels and contribute to poor treatment adherence. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within Gordon is a critical component of a comprehensive hypertension management strategy. The analysis should explore the presence of mental health providers, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed counselors, and assess their capacity to serve the local population. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health professionals is essential for providing integrated care that addresses both physical and psychological well-being. This includes the availability of mental health screening tools within primary care practices and referral pathways for patients who require specialized mental health services.

Evaluating the insurance landscape within ZIP Code 36343 is also necessary. The acceptance of various insurance plans, including Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance, directly impacts access to care. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans are more likely to serve a diverse patient population. Additionally, the analysis should consider the availability of financial assistance programs and resources for patients who may struggle to afford the cost of medications or medical services. Addressing financial barriers to care is crucial for ensuring that all residents of Gordon have the opportunity to effectively manage their hypertension.

The effectiveness of community health initiatives plays a role in overall hypertension management. The analysis should investigate the presence of local health programs, such as blood pressure screenings, health education workshops, and support groups. These initiatives can empower individuals to take an active role in their health and provide valuable resources for managing hypertension. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government agencies is essential for creating a supportive environment that promotes healthy lifestyles and early intervention.

The “Hypertension Score” for ZIP Code 36343, derived from this comprehensive analysis, would reflect the combined impact of these factors. A higher score would indicate a more favorable environment for hypertension management, characterized by adequate physician-to-patient ratios, high-quality practices, robust telemedicine adoption, accessible mental health resources, and strong community support. Conversely, a lower score would highlight areas that require improvement, such as addressing physician shortages, enhancing telemedicine infrastructure, and expanding mental health services. This score would provide a valuable tool for healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members to identify strengths and weaknesses and develop targeted interventions to improve hypertension outcomes.

Ultimately, a thorough understanding of the healthcare landscape in Gordon, Alabama, is essential for effectively addressing the challenge of hypertension. By analyzing physician availability, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and community support, we can gain valuable insights into the factors that impact patient care. This detailed analysis can inform targeted interventions and improve the health and well-being of the residents of ZIP Code 36343.

To visualize the distribution of healthcare resources and identify areas of need within Gordon and surrounding areas, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps offer a powerful way to analyze geographic data, visualize trends, and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape.