36401, Evergreen, Alabama Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 36401, Evergreen, Alabama is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.38 percent of the residents in 36401 has some form of health insurance. 47.46 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.33 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 36401 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,838 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36401. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,537 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 87 health care providers accessible to residents in 36401, Evergreen, Alabama.

**Hypertension Score Analysis: Evergreen, Alabama (ZIP Code 36401)**

Evergreen, Alabama, a small town nestled in Conecuh County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare, particularly regarding hypertension management. Analyzing the availability of primary care physicians, the adoption of modern technologies like telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources provides a clearer picture of the local healthcare ecosystem’s capacity to address this significant public health concern. This analysis aims to provide a "Hypertension Score" assessment for doctors practicing within the 36401 ZIP code, considering factors that directly impact a patient's ability to receive timely and effective care.

The foundation of effective hypertension management rests on accessible primary care. In Evergreen, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. While precise figures fluctuate, the general trend in rural areas like Conecuh County often reveals a shortage of primary care physicians compared to urban centers. This scarcity can translate into longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment initiation for individuals with elevated blood pressure. The limited number of physicians also places a heavier burden on each practitioner, potentially affecting the time they can dedicate to individual patient education and follow-up, crucial aspects of hypertension control.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care practices matters. Identifying "standout practices" involves evaluating several criteria. These include the presence of comprehensive patient education programs, readily available blood pressure monitoring tools within the office, and a proactive approach to patient outreach. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively to track patient data, send reminders for appointments and medication refills, and facilitate communication between specialists are likely to achieve better outcomes. Furthermore, practices that actively participate in community health initiatives and partner with local pharmacies to ensure medication adherence demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive patient care.

Telemedicine offers a promising avenue to bridge geographical barriers and improve access to care, especially in rural settings. Its adoption among doctors in Evergreen is a crucial element in the Hypertension Score. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, providing convenience and reducing the need for frequent in-person visits, particularly for routine check-ups and medication management. The extent to which local practices have embraced telemedicine, including the availability of virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring capabilities, and secure online portals for communication, directly impacts the overall score. Practices that have invested in the necessary technology and training to offer robust telemedicine services are better positioned to serve their patients effectively.

Hypertension is often intertwined with mental health. Stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure levels and contribute to poor adherence to treatment plans. The availability of mental health resources within the Evergreen healthcare system is, therefore, a vital component of the Hypertension Score. This includes the presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and counselors, who can provide support and address underlying mental health issues that may be contributing to hypertension. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices, such as screening for mental health conditions and referrals to specialists, is particularly beneficial. Furthermore, the availability of support groups, educational resources, and access to mental health services through telemedicine further enhances the overall score.

The Hypertension Score is not a static number but a dynamic assessment reflecting the evolving healthcare landscape in Evergreen. It's influenced by various factors, including physician availability, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. Practices that excel in these areas are better equipped to provide comprehensive hypertension management and contribute to improved patient outcomes. The score also reflects the need for ongoing efforts to improve access to care, enhance the quality of services, and address the complex interplay between physical and mental health.

The analysis of individual practices within ZIP Code 36401 would require a deeper dive into specific data. However, this framework provides a basis for understanding the critical elements that contribute to effective hypertension management in the Evergreen community. This assessment underscores the importance of a multifaceted approach that considers not only the availability of physicians but also the quality of care, the use of technology, and the integration of mental health resources. The ultimate goal is to improve the health and well-being of individuals living with hypertension in Evergreen and the surrounding areas.

For a comprehensive visual representation of healthcare resources in Evergreen and the surrounding areas, including physician locations, practice specializations, and access to mental health services, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides a powerful platform for visualizing and analyzing healthcare data, enabling informed decision-making and facilitating improved access to care.