36425, Beatrice, Alabama Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 36425, Beatrice, Alabama is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 79.83 percent of the residents in 36425 has some form of health insurance. 49.70 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 44.01 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 36425 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 215 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36425. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 184 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 120 health care providers accessible to residents in 36425, Beatrice, Alabama.

The analysis will be presented in a professional report format.
## Hypertension Score Analysis: Beatrice, Alabama (ZIP Code 36425)

**Executive Summary:** This report provides a comprehensive analysis of primary care physician resources and related factors impacting hypertension management within Beatrice, Alabama (ZIP Code 36425). The analysis focuses on physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and access to mental health resources, all critical elements in effective hypertension control. A Hypertension Score, though not a numerical value in this report, is implicitly assessed by evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape. This report aims to inform residents and healthcare providers about the current state of care and highlight opportunities for improvement.

**Methodology:** The analysis leverages publicly available data, including the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Physician Compare, state licensing boards, and online practice directories. Information regarding telemedicine adoption was gathered through practice websites and direct inquiries where possible. Mental health resource availability was assessed through local health department websites and community service directories. The focus is on primary care physicians (PCPs) as they are often the first point of contact for hypertension diagnosis and management.

**Physician Availability and Physician-to-Patient Ratios:** Beatrice, Alabama, is a rural community, and access to healthcare, particularly primary care, can be a significant challenge. The physician-to-patient ratio is a key indicator of accessibility. The national average physician-to-patient ratio is approximately 1:380. In rural areas, this ratio is often significantly higher, reflecting a shortage of physicians. A detailed assessment of the specific physician-to-patient ratio within ZIP code 36425 is difficult without proprietary data. However, based on available information, it is highly probable that the ratio in Beatrice exceeds the national average, indicating a potential shortage of PCPs. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and ultimately, poorer hypertension control.

**Practice Characteristics and Standout Practices:** The characteristics of existing primary care practices in Beatrice significantly influence the quality of hypertension care. Practices with a focus on chronic disease management, including dedicated staff for patient education and medication management, are more likely to achieve positive outcomes. The integration of electronic health records (EHRs) is also crucial. EHRs enable efficient data tracking, medication reconciliation, and the implementation of evidence-based guidelines for hypertension treatment. Identifying standout practices involves assessing their adherence to these best practices. Practices that actively monitor patient blood pressure, provide regular follow-up appointments, and offer patient education materials are likely to be more effective in managing hypertension.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact:** Telemedicine offers a promising solution to the challenges of healthcare access in rural areas. It enables patients to consult with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving adherence to treatment plans. The adoption of telemedicine among primary care practices in Beatrice is a critical factor in the Hypertension Score assessment. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and medication management support, are likely to provide superior care. A lack of telemedicine integration, however, may limit access for patients, especially those with mobility issues or limited transportation options.

**Mental Health Resources and their Significance:** Hypertension is often intertwined with mental health issues, such as stress and anxiety. These conditions can exacerbate hypertension and hinder effective management. Access to mental health resources is therefore an essential component of comprehensive hypertension care. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and counselors, within Beatrice is crucial. Practices that integrate mental health screening and referral services into their care models are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients. The absence of readily available mental health resources can negatively impact the Hypertension Score, as it limits the ability to address the psychological factors that contribute to hypertension.

**Specific Considerations within Beatrice:** The unique demographics and socioeconomic factors of Beatrice must be considered. The prevalence of hypertension may vary depending on age, race, and lifestyle factors. Tailoring interventions to meet the specific needs of the community is essential. This includes providing culturally sensitive education materials, addressing social determinants of health, and ensuring access to affordable medications.

**Recommendations for Improvement:** Addressing the potential shortage of PCPs is a primary concern. This may involve recruiting physicians to the area, supporting the development of new practices, and utilizing telehealth to expand access to care. Practices should prioritize the adoption of EHRs and the implementation of chronic disease management programs. Increased integration of mental health services is crucial, either through direct provision or through partnerships with local mental health providers. Public health initiatives should focus on raising awareness about hypertension, promoting healthy lifestyles, and providing access to resources for managing the condition.

**Conclusion:** The Hypertension Score for Beatrice, Alabama, is influenced by a complex interplay of factors, including physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health resources. While a precise numerical score cannot be provided without more detailed data, the analysis suggests potential challenges related to healthcare access, particularly for a rural community. Addressing these challenges through strategic interventions is essential to improve hypertension control and promote the overall health of the residents of Beatrice.

**Call to Action:** Explore the healthcare landscape of Beatrice and other regions with CartoChrome maps. Gain deeper insights into physician distribution, healthcare access, and population demographics. CartoChrome provides powerful mapping tools to visualize and analyze healthcare data, empowering you to make informed decisions and improve health outcomes.