36502, Atmore, Alabama Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 36502, Atmore, Alabama is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 80.67 percent of the residents in 36502 has some form of health insurance. 40.69 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 50.76 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 36502 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,025 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36502. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,988 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 222 health care providers accessible to residents in 36502, Atmore, Alabama.

The following analysis assesses the quality of hypertension management and primary care access within ZIP code 36502, encompassing Atmore, Alabama. It focuses on key metrics relevant to patient well-being, including physician availability, practice characteristics, and the integration of modern healthcare technologies. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the local healthcare landscape, specifically for patients seeking effective hypertension care.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator of healthcare accessibility. Within 36502, the ratio of primary care physicians to the population directly impacts the ease with which patients can secure appointments and receive ongoing care. A lower ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, often translates to longer wait times and potentially reduced access to preventative services. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests a more readily available healthcare infrastructure. Data from state and federal sources must be analyzed to determine the precise physician-to-patient ratio in Atmore. This assessment includes the number of actively practicing primary care physicians, considering factors like board certifications, years of experience, and practice settings (solo, group, hospital-affiliated). Furthermore, the analysis considers the presence of nurse practitioners and physician assistants, who play a crucial role in expanding access to primary care services.

Standout practices in Atmore are those that demonstrate exceptional performance in hypertension management and patient care. These practices often employ evidence-based guidelines, such as those recommended by the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology, to guide their treatment protocols. Key indicators of quality include the percentage of patients with controlled blood pressure, the utilization of regular screenings for cardiovascular risk factors, and the implementation of patient education programs. Practices that actively engage in patient education, providing resources on lifestyle modifications (diet, exercise, smoking cessation) and medication adherence, are likely to achieve superior outcomes. Furthermore, the adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) enables practices to track patient progress, manage medication refills efficiently, and facilitate communication between healthcare providers. Identifying these high-performing practices requires analyzing data on patient outcomes, patient satisfaction surveys, and the adoption of best practices.

Telemedicine adoption is rapidly transforming healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas like Atmore. Telemedicine offers patients convenient access to healthcare services, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring of blood pressure, and medication management. Practices that embrace telemedicine can extend their reach, serving patients who may have difficulty traveling to in-person appointments. The analysis examines the availability of telemedicine services in 36502, including the types of services offered (e.g., video consultations, remote monitoring), the platforms used, and the reimbursement policies of insurance providers. The success of telemedicine adoption also depends on the digital literacy of both patients and providers, as well as the availability of reliable internet access. Practices that provide technical support to patients and integrate telemedicine seamlessly into their workflows are more likely to achieve positive outcomes.

Mental health resources are an essential component of comprehensive hypertension care. The relationship between mental health and cardiovascular health is well-established. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can contribute to elevated blood pressure and worsen hypertension outcomes. Therefore, the availability of mental health services within the local healthcare system is crucial. This analysis assesses the presence of mental health providers (psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists) in Atmore, as well as the availability of mental health support programs and resources. The integration of mental health services into primary care practices, such as offering on-site counseling or providing referrals to mental health specialists, can improve patient outcomes. Furthermore, the analysis considers the availability of educational materials and support groups for patients dealing with both hypertension and mental health challenges.

Primary care availability in Atmore is a critical factor influencing the quality of hypertension management. The ability of patients to access timely and appropriate primary care services is essential for early detection, diagnosis, and management of hypertension. This analysis examines the number of primary care practices in the area, their hours of operation, and their acceptance of different insurance plans. The availability of same-day or next-day appointments is also a key indicator of access. Furthermore, the analysis considers the presence of after-hours care options, such as urgent care clinics or telehealth services, which can provide patients with access to care outside of regular business hours. The geographic distribution of primary care practices within 36502 is also considered, to assess whether all residents have reasonable access to care.

The availability of specialists, such as cardiologists and nephrologists, is another crucial aspect of hypertension management. Patients with complex cases or uncontrolled hypertension may require referral to a specialist for further evaluation and treatment. This analysis examines the presence of cardiology and nephrology specialists in or near Atmore, as well as the ease with which patients can obtain referrals. The coordination of care between primary care physicians and specialists is also important, as it ensures that patients receive comprehensive and coordinated treatment. Practices that have established relationships with specialists and utilize electronic health records to share patient information are more likely to provide seamless care.

Patient education and empowerment are key elements of successful hypertension management. Patients who are well-informed about their condition, treatment options, and lifestyle modifications are more likely to adhere to their treatment plans and achieve better outcomes. This analysis assesses the availability of patient education materials, such as brochures, websites, and educational programs, in Atmore. The use of patient portals, which allow patients to access their medical records, communicate with their providers, and track their blood pressure readings, is also considered. Practices that actively engage patients in their care, providing them with the knowledge and tools they need to manage their condition, are likely to achieve superior results.

The overall quality of hypertension care in Atmore depends on a combination of factors, including physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and patient education. By assessing these factors, a comprehensive picture of the local healthcare landscape can be developed. This analysis provides a starting point for patients seeking to find the best care for their needs.

For a visual representation of healthcare access and practice locations within ZIP code 36502, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and community resources, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. These maps offer a dynamic and informative way to understand the healthcare landscape in Atmore and make informed decisions about your healthcare.