36529, Deer Park, Alabama Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 36529, Deer Park, Alabama is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.31 percent of the residents in 36529 has some form of health insurance. 65.63 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 45.31 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 36529 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 92 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36529. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 65 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 139 health care providers accessible to residents in 36529, Deer Park, Alabama.

**Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 36529 & Primary Care Availability in Deer Park**

Analyzing the landscape of healthcare, specifically concerning hypertension management within ZIP code 36529 (which encompasses Deer Park, Alabama) necessitates a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will delve into primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, notable practices, telemedicine integration, and the presence of mental health resources, culminating in a hypertension score assessment. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the resources available for managing hypertension within this specific geographic area.

The cornerstone of effective hypertension management lies in accessible primary care. Deer Park, a relatively small community, presents a unique challenge in terms of primary care availability. Assessing the number of practicing primary care physicians (PCPs) within the ZIP code is the first step. Then, comparing this number to the population of 36529 allows for the calculation of a physician-to-patient ratio. This ratio is a critical indicator of access. A lower ratio (fewer patients per physician) generally signifies better access and the potential for more individualized care, which is vital for managing a chronic condition like hypertension.

However, simply counting physicians is insufficient. The types of practices and their operational models also matter. Are the primary care practices accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments? These factors significantly impact accessibility. Furthermore, the presence of specialists, such as cardiologists, within or near the ZIP code is essential for patients with complex hypertension or those requiring specialized care. A lack of nearby specialists could necessitate travel, which can be a barrier to consistent care and medication adherence.

Standout practices within the area often distinguish themselves through their patient-centered approach. This includes proactive outreach to patients with hypertension, regular blood pressure monitoring, and comprehensive patient education. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively can improve care coordination and medication management. EHRs can also facilitate the identification of patients at risk of hypertension and enable timely interventions. The implementation of evidence-based guidelines for hypertension management, such as those recommended by the American Heart Association, is another key indicator of quality care.

Telemedicine adoption has the potential to significantly impact hypertension management, especially in rural areas like Deer Park. Telemedicine allows for remote consultations, medication management, and blood pressure monitoring. Practices that offer telemedicine services can improve access to care, reduce travel time for patients, and facilitate more frequent check-ins. The availability of remote blood pressure monitoring devices, integrated with telemedicine platforms, can further enhance the ability to monitor and manage hypertension effectively.

The interplay between physical and mental health is crucial in managing hypertension. Chronic stress and mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression, can significantly impact blood pressure. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the community is a critical factor. This includes access to therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups. Practices that integrate mental health screening and treatment into their primary care services demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health professionals is essential for comprehensive hypertension management.

Assessing the overall hypertension score for doctors in 36529 involves weighting the factors discussed above. A higher score would be assigned to areas with a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, readily available primary care practices, and the integration of telemedicine and mental health resources. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient education, proactive monitoring, and adherence to evidence-based guidelines would also receive higher scores. Conversely, areas with limited access to primary care, a lack of telemedicine options, and inadequate mental health resources would receive lower scores.

The specific practices within 36529 would be evaluated based on their individual characteristics. For example, a practice accepting new patients, offering extended hours, and utilizing telemedicine would likely receive a higher score than a practice with limited accessibility and no telemedicine options. The availability of specialists and the presence of integrated mental health services would further influence the score.

The ultimate goal of this analysis is to provide a comprehensive assessment of the resources available for hypertension management in Deer Park. This information can be used by patients to make informed decisions about their healthcare, by healthcare providers to identify areas for improvement, and by community stakeholders to advocate for better access to care. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system, we can work towards improving the health and well-being of the residents of Deer Park.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in 36529, including the locations of primary care practices, specialist availability, and demographic data related to hypertension risk factors, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that can help you visualize the data discussed in this analysis, allowing for a more intuitive understanding of the healthcare environment.