36473, Range, Alabama Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 36473, Range, Alabama is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.90 percent of the residents in 36473 has some form of health insurance. 70.28 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 36.84 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 36473 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 136 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36473. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 64 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 307 health care providers accessible to residents in 36473, Range, Alabama.

The following analysis provides a hypothetical 'Hypertension Score' ranking for primary care physicians within ZIP code 36473, focusing on factors relevant to hypertension management and overall patient well-being. This assessment incorporates elements of physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources. It is important to note that this is a simulated analysis, and actual data would need to be gathered from verified sources.

The ‘Hypertension Score’ framework considers several key areas. Firstly, physician availability is crucial. A high physician-to-patient ratio, indicating a shortage of primary care providers, can negatively impact access to timely appointments, preventative screenings, and consistent follow-up care – all vital for hypertension control. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests better access and potentially improved patient outcomes. We would assess the number of primary care physicians actively practicing within 36473 and estimate the patient population served. This ratio would be a significant component of the score.

Secondly, the analysis examines practice characteristics. Are practices accepting new patients? This directly impacts access. Do practices offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate patients' schedules? This can improve adherence to treatment plans. Do practices employ registered nurses or certified medical assistants specifically trained in hypertension management? The presence of dedicated staff can improve patient education and support. The availability of on-site blood pressure monitoring equipment and electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate data tracking and medication management are also critical. Practices with robust EHR systems, enabling easy access to patient data and streamlined communication, would score higher.

Thirdly, telemedicine adoption plays an increasingly important role. Practices offering telehealth appointments for follow-up visits, medication management, or patient education would receive a higher score. Telemedicine can improve access, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. The availability of remote blood pressure monitoring devices, allowing patients to track their blood pressure at home and share data with their physician, would also be a positive factor. The ability to provide virtual consultations, especially for patients needing medication adjustments, is crucial.

Fourthly, recognizing the significant link between mental health and hypertension, the analysis considers the availability of mental health resources. Do practices offer on-site mental health services, such as counseling or therapy? If not, do they have established referral pathways to local mental health providers? The presence of mental health support can help patients manage stress, a known contributor to elevated blood pressure. Practices that actively screen for depression and anxiety, and provide resources to address these issues, would score higher. Addressing the psychological aspects of chronic disease management is essential for holistic care.

In evaluating primary care availability within the "Range" (presumably a geographic area encompassing 36473), the analysis would extend beyond the immediate ZIP code. This would involve assessing the number of primary care physicians within a reasonable driving distance, considering travel time and accessibility. We would examine the distribution of practices throughout the area, noting any areas with limited access to care, potentially indicating "healthcare deserts." Public transportation options, if any, would also be considered.

Standout practices within 36473 would be identified based on their performance across the above criteria. These practices would likely exhibit a low physician-to-patient ratio, readily accepting new patients, offering extended hours, and employing dedicated staff focused on hypertension management. They would likely have embraced telemedicine, providing virtual consultations and remote monitoring options. Furthermore, they would demonstrate a commitment to addressing the mental health needs of their patients, either through on-site services or strong referral networks.

To illustrate, a hypothetical practice scoring highly might be "Coastal Family Health." This practice could be characterized by a relatively low physician-to-patient ratio, a welcoming approach to new patients, and extended hours. They might utilize a sophisticated EHR system, offer telemedicine appointments for follow-up visits, and provide patients with remote blood pressure monitoring devices. Coastal Family Health would also have established partnerships with local mental health providers, ensuring comprehensive care. Conversely, a practice with a high physician-to-patient ratio, limited appointment availability, and a lack of telemedicine or mental health resources would likely score lower.

The analysis would also consider the presence of community resources. Are there local support groups for individuals with hypertension? Are there programs promoting healthy eating and exercise? The availability of such resources can supplement the care provided by physicians and contribute to improved patient outcomes. The involvement of local hospitals and health systems in hypertension education and outreach programs would also be a positive factor.

This ‘Hypertension Score’ is a dynamic assessment. It should be updated regularly to reflect changes in physician availability, practice characteristics, and the availability of community resources. As telemedicine technology evolves and mental health awareness increases, the scoring criteria would need to be adapted to reflect these developments. The goal is to provide a comprehensive and informative assessment that helps patients make informed decisions about their healthcare and encourages practices to improve their hypertension management strategies.

This analysis provides a framework for evaluating the quality of hypertension care within ZIP code 36473 and the surrounding "Range." By considering physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, the 'Hypertension Score' can provide valuable insights for patients and healthcare providers.

For a visual representation of this data, including physician locations, patient demographics, and community resource locations, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can transform complex data into actionable insights, enabling you to visualize healthcare access and identify areas for improvement.