36701, Selma, Alabama Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 36701, Selma, Alabama is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.19 percent of the residents in 36701 has some form of health insurance. 44.10 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.18 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 36701 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,469 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36701. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,301 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 266 health care providers accessible to residents in 36701, Selma, Alabama.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Selma, Alabama (ZIP Code 36701)

Selma, Alabama (ZIP Code 36701), presents a complex landscape for healthcare, particularly concerning hypertension management. This analysis delves into the availability of primary care physicians, their practices, and the resources available to manage this prevalent condition. The goal is to provide a "Hypertension Score" analysis, assessing the overall environment for patients seeking hypertension care in this specific geographic area.

The foundation of effective hypertension management rests on accessible primary care. In Selma, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. While precise figures fluctuate, the area often struggles with a shortage of primary care physicians compared to the national average. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. The limited availability also puts a strain on existing physicians, impacting their ability to provide comprehensive, individualized care.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care practices significantly influences the "Hypertension Score." Several practices within Selma are likely to stand out. These practices often demonstrate a proactive approach to hypertension management. They may implement standardized protocols for blood pressure screening, diagnosis, and treatment. They may also emphasize patient education, empowering individuals to actively participate in their care. These practices would likely utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient data, facilitate medication management, and ensure continuity of care.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial element. Telemedicine offers a potential solution to the geographical challenges of healthcare access. It can allow patients to connect with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving convenience. In the context of hypertension, telemedicine can facilitate medication refills, blood pressure monitoring, and lifestyle counseling. The "Hypertension Score" would be positively impacted by practices actively embracing and effectively utilizing telemedicine platforms.

The link between mental health and hypertension is well-established. Chronic stress and mental health conditions can significantly contribute to elevated blood pressure. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the community is vital. The "Hypertension Score" would be higher in areas with readily accessible mental health services, including therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health professionals is also essential. This collaboration ensures that patients with both hypertension and mental health concerns receive integrated and holistic care.

The infrastructure supporting hypertension management goes beyond individual practices. Community resources, such as support groups, educational programs, and access to healthy food options, play a crucial role. The "Hypertension Score" would reflect the presence and accessibility of these resources. For example, community health initiatives promoting healthy eating and regular exercise can significantly impact blood pressure control. Access to affordable medications and insurance coverage is also a critical factor.

The "Hypertension Score" would also assess the use of evidence-based guidelines. The American Heart Association and other professional organizations provide detailed guidelines for hypertension management. Practices that adhere to these guidelines are more likely to provide effective and up-to-date care. This includes the use of appropriate medications, lifestyle recommendations, and regular monitoring.

The overall "Hypertension Score" for Selma, Alabama (ZIP Code 36701) would be a composite measure, considering all these factors. The score would reflect the availability of primary care physicians, the quality of their practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the presence of community support systems. A low score would indicate significant challenges in accessing and receiving adequate hypertension care. A high score would signify a more favorable environment, with readily available resources and a proactive approach to patient management.

The assessment of individual practices within Selma would require a detailed investigation. This would involve analyzing their patient demographics, their use of technology, their adherence to guidelines, and their patient outcomes. Patient satisfaction surveys and reviews would also provide valuable insights. This in-depth analysis would enable a more nuanced understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of each practice.

The impact of socioeconomic factors on hypertension management cannot be ignored. Poverty, lack of access to transportation, and limited health literacy can all create barriers to care. The "Hypertension Score" should consider these factors and recognize the need for targeted interventions to address health disparities. This may involve providing culturally sensitive care, offering financial assistance, and developing educational programs tailored to the specific needs of the community.

The role of public health initiatives is also essential. Local health departments can play a crucial role in promoting hypertension awareness, providing screening programs, and supporting community-based interventions. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and the public health sector is vital to improve the "Hypertension Score" and the overall health of the population.

In conclusion, the "Hypertension Score" for Selma, Alabama (ZIP Code 36701) reflects a complex interplay of factors. While the area likely faces challenges related to physician availability and socioeconomic factors, the quality of care provided by individual practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of community resources all play a significant role. Continuous monitoring, evaluation, and improvement are essential to ensure that residents of Selma have access to the care they need to effectively manage hypertension and improve their overall health.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Selma, Alabama, and explore the distribution of healthcare resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping tools that can help you visualize physician locations, healthcare facilities, and demographic data, providing a valuable resource for assessing the "Hypertension Score" and understanding the healthcare environment in this area.