36606, Mobile, Alabama Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 36606, Mobile, Alabama is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.15 percent of the residents in 36606 has some form of health insurance. 37.38 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.29 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 36606 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,679 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 69 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36606. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,225 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 11,172 health care providers accessible to residents in 36606, Mobile, Alabama.

The following analysis assesses hypertension care within ZIP Code 36606, focusing on primary care availability in Mobile, Alabama. It aims to provide a comprehensive 'Hypertension Score' evaluation, incorporating physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, examining telemedicine adoption, and evaluating the availability of mental health resources. This assessment acknowledges the complex interplay of factors influencing hypertension management and control.

The foundation of effective hypertension management rests on accessible and competent primary care. In Mobile, and specifically within the 36606 ZIP code, the availability of primary care physicians is a critical determinant of patient outcomes. Assessing this requires evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio. This ratio reflects the number of residents served by each primary care physician. A higher ratio suggests a potentially strained healthcare system, where physicians may face increased patient loads, potentially limiting the time dedicated to each patient and impacting the quality of care. Data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and the Alabama Department of Public Health can provide the necessary figures to calculate this ratio. A low ratio, indicating a greater availability of physicians, is a positive indicator for hypertension care.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Identifying standout practices within 36606 requires evaluating several key performance indicators. These include the percentage of patients with controlled blood pressure, the frequency of patient follow-up appointments, the implementation of evidence-based guidelines for hypertension management, and the utilization of patient education resources. Practices that consistently demonstrate high performance in these areas should be recognized for their commitment to effective hypertension care. Publicly available data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and other healthcare quality reporting organizations can provide insights into these metrics. Furthermore, patient reviews and testimonials can offer valuable qualitative information regarding the patient experience and the perceived quality of care.

Telemedicine adoption has the potential to significantly improve hypertension management, particularly in areas with limited access to care. Telemedicine allows physicians to remotely monitor patients' blood pressure readings, adjust medication dosages, and provide virtual consultations. In 36606, the extent of telemedicine adoption among primary care practices is a key factor in the 'Hypertension Score'. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can potentially reach a wider patient population, improve medication adherence, and reduce the need for frequent in-person visits. Assessing telemedicine adoption involves examining the availability of virtual appointments, the use of remote blood pressure monitoring devices, and the integration of telehealth platforms into the practice's workflow. Information on telemedicine adoption can be obtained through practice websites, surveys, and interviews with healthcare providers.

The link between mental health and hypertension is well-established. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can contribute to elevated blood pressure and hinder effective hypertension management. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within 36606 is a crucial component of the 'Hypertension Score'. This includes assessing the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, as well as the accessibility of mental health services, such as counseling and support groups. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health providers is also essential. Practices that have established referral pathways and integrated mental health services into their hypertension management programs are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients. Information on mental health resources can be obtained through local mental health organizations, community health centers, and hospital systems.

The 'Hypertension Score' for 36606 should also consider the socioeconomic factors that can influence hypertension outcomes. These factors include income levels, access to healthy food options, and the availability of safe places for physical activity. Communities with lower socioeconomic status often face greater challenges in managing hypertension due to limited resources and systemic barriers. Therefore, the 'Hypertension Score' should reflect these disparities and acknowledge the need for targeted interventions to address the specific needs of vulnerable populations. Data from the U.S. Census Bureau and other sources can provide insights into the socioeconomic characteristics of the 36606 ZIP code.

In conclusion, the 'Hypertension Score' for 36606 and primary care availability in Mobile is a multifaceted assessment. It requires a detailed examination of physician-to-patient ratios, the identification of standout practices, the evaluation of telemedicine adoption, and the assessment of mental health resources. Furthermore, the score must consider the socioeconomic factors that influence hypertension outcomes. By comprehensively evaluating these factors, a more accurate and nuanced understanding of hypertension care within the community can be achieved. This detailed analysis will help identify areas of strength and weakness, and inform strategies to improve hypertension management and control.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Mobile, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and socioeconomic data, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. These maps provide valuable insights for healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members alike.