36471, Peterman, Alabama Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 36471, Peterman, Alabama is 15 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 75.00 percent of the residents in 36471 has some form of health insurance. 55.87 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 48.46 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 36471 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 113 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36471. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 127 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 148 health care providers accessible to residents in 36471, Peterman, Alabama.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: ZIP Code 36471 and Primary Care in Peterman

This analysis delves into the landscape of hypertension management within ZIP code 36471, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care, specifically in the area of Peterman, Alabama. The goal is to assess the resources available to patients, considering factors that influence hypertension control, including physician access, practice characteristics, and the integration of supportive services. This is not a definitive ranking, but rather an assessment based on publicly available information and general healthcare trends.

The foundation of effective hypertension management lies in accessible and quality primary care. In Peterman, and within the broader 36471 ZIP code, assessing primary care availability begins with examining physician-to-patient ratios. This metric provides a baseline understanding of the potential for patients to secure timely appointments and ongoing care. Publicly available data from the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and the Alabama Department of Public Health, if accessible, would provide the most accurate figures. However, in the absence of specific data, we can infer based on national and state averages. Rural areas often face challenges with physician shortages, and Peterman, as a small community, likely reflects this trend. This could mean longer wait times for appointments and potentially limited choices for patients.

The quality of primary care extends beyond mere availability. We need to evaluate the practices themselves. Are there any standout practices in the area? This would involve looking at patient reviews, the scope of services offered, and the adoption of evidence-based practices for hypertension management. Practices that prioritize preventative care, offer comprehensive blood pressure monitoring, and actively engage patients in their treatment plans are more likely to achieve better outcomes. Information regarding the use of electronic health records (EHRs) is also crucial. EHRs facilitate better care coordination, allowing physicians to track patient progress, share information with specialists, and provide reminders for medication refills and follow-up appointments.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. Telemedicine can significantly enhance access to care, especially in rural areas where travel distances can be a barrier. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and online patient portals are better positioned to manage patients with hypertension. This is particularly important for patients who may struggle with transportation or have mobility issues. The availability of telehealth options can improve medication adherence, facilitate regular monitoring, and reduce the need for frequent in-person visits.

Beyond the clinical aspects of hypertension management, it is essential to consider the availability of supportive services, especially mental health resources. Hypertension is often linked to stress and anxiety, and addressing these underlying issues can significantly improve patient outcomes. Practices that have integrated mental health services or have established referral networks with mental health professionals are better equipped to provide comprehensive care. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists who can help patients manage stress, cope with lifestyle changes, and address any mental health conditions that may be contributing to their hypertension.

Furthermore, the availability of resources such as dietitians, exercise specialists, and patient education programs can also impact hypertension control. Practices that offer these services, or have partnerships with providers who do, are better able to support patients in adopting healthy lifestyle changes. This includes guidance on healthy eating habits, regular physical activity, and stress management techniques.

Assessing the overall "Hypertension Score" for the area requires a holistic view. It's not just about the number of doctors, but also about the quality of care, the adoption of technology, and the availability of supportive services. The practices that excel in these areas are likely to achieve better outcomes for their patients. This means a focus on preventative care, patient education, and ongoing monitoring.

In conclusion, evaluating the landscape of hypertension management in ZIP code 36471, specifically in Peterman, requires a multi-faceted approach. While the exact physician-to-patient ratio is crucial, the quality of care, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources are equally important. The practices that prioritize these elements are best positioned to help patients effectively manage their hypertension and improve their overall health.

To further explore the healthcare landscape of ZIP code 36471 and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, practice characteristics, and the availability of supportive services, enabling a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare environment.