36344, Hartford, Alabama Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 36344, Hartford, Alabama is 82 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.71 percent of the residents in 36344 has some form of health insurance. 38.07 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.32 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 36344 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,641 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36344. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,027 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,699 health care providers accessible to residents in 36344, Hartford, Alabama.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Hartford, AL (ZIP Code 36344)

Hartford, Alabama, nestled in Geneva County, presents a unique landscape for evaluating hypertension management and primary care access. This analysis, focusing on ZIP code 36344, aims to provide a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" assessment, considering physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in effectively combating hypertension.

The foundation of any hypertension management program rests on accessible primary care. In Hartford, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. While precise figures fluctuate, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) within the 36344 ZIP code and its immediate surrounding areas is likely a significant determinant of the "Hypertension Score." A lower ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment for individuals with elevated blood pressure. This scarcity can also impact the continuity of care, as patients may be forced to seek care from different providers, hindering the development of strong patient-physician relationships essential for long-term management.

Standout practices in Hartford, if any, will likely demonstrate excellence in several key areas. These include proactive screening programs, patient education initiatives, and the utilization of evidence-based guidelines for hypertension management. Practices that actively monitor blood pressure, provide tailored lifestyle recommendations (diet, exercise, stress management), and offer regular follow-up appointments are more likely to achieve better patient outcomes. The integration of electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient data and facilitate communication is another indicator of a high-performing practice. Furthermore, practices that actively engage with patients to address medication adherence and offer support for overcoming barriers to care will likely contribute to a higher "Hypertension Score" for the area.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical component of a successful hypertension management strategy, particularly in rural areas like Hartford. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, providing patients with convenient access to consultations, medication management, and remote monitoring. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms to offer virtual appointments, blood pressure monitoring through connected devices, and remote patient education are likely to contribute positively to the "Hypertension Score." The ability to remotely monitor blood pressure readings and provide timely interventions can significantly improve patient outcomes and reduce the risk of complications associated with uncontrolled hypertension.

The often-overlooked aspect of hypertension management is the integration of mental health resources. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure levels. The availability of mental health services, including counseling and psychiatric care, is therefore crucial for a holistic approach to hypertension management. Practices that collaborate with mental health professionals, offer on-site counseling services, or provide referrals to mental health providers can contribute significantly to improved patient outcomes. The ability to address the psychological factors contributing to hypertension is essential for achieving long-term blood pressure control.

To assess the "Hypertension Score" accurately, a comprehensive review of available data is necessary. This includes analyzing the number of PCPs in the area, evaluating the prevalence of hypertension within the 36344 ZIP code, and assessing the utilization of preventive care services. Data on medication adherence rates, blood pressure control rates, and the availability of specialized services (e.g., cardiology) would also be crucial. Furthermore, understanding the demographics of the population, including age, socioeconomic status, and access to health insurance, is essential for a complete picture.

The "Hypertension Score" for Hartford, AL, would be derived from a weighted average of these factors. The physician-to-patient ratio would be a significant component, reflecting the availability of primary care. The adoption of telemedicine and the integration of mental health resources would also be heavily weighted, reflecting their importance in providing comprehensive care. Standout practices, based on their adherence to best practices and patient outcomes, would contribute positively to the overall score.

The final "Hypertension Score" would provide a valuable benchmark for assessing the effectiveness of hypertension management efforts in Hartford. It could also be used to identify areas for improvement and guide the development of targeted interventions. For example, if the physician-to-patient ratio is low, efforts could be focused on recruiting more PCPs to the area. If telemedicine adoption is low, initiatives could be implemented to encourage its use. And if mental health resources are limited, partnerships could be forged with mental health providers to increase access to care.

Ultimately, the goal is to improve the overall health and well-being of the residents of Hartford. By providing a clear and concise "Hypertension Score," this analysis aims to contribute to that goal. This score, when properly assessed, can be used to identify areas of strength and weakness in the local healthcare system, allowing for targeted interventions and resource allocation to improve hypertension management.

To gain a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of these factors and visualize the data, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer powerful tools for visualizing geographic data, allowing you to identify areas with high and low "Hypertension Scores" and to explore the factors contributing to those scores. By using CartoChrome maps, you can gain a more comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities in hypertension management in Hartford, Alabama.