36722, Arlington, Alabama Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 36722, Arlington, Alabama is 13 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 36722 has some form of health insurance. 77.12 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.42 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 36722 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 28 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36722. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 21 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 85 health care providers accessible to residents in 36722, Arlington, Alabama.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 36722 & Primary Care Availability in Arlington

This analysis delves into the landscape of hypertension management within ZIP Code 36722 (Alabama) and assesses primary care availability in Arlington, Virginia, considering factors crucial for effective patient care. The focus is on evaluating resources and infrastructure that contribute to a favorable 'Hypertension Score' for each location. This score, though not a formal metric, represents an assessment of the ease with which individuals can access and manage their hypertension, encompassing physician availability, practice characteristics, and support systems.

**ZIP Code 36722, Alabama: A Rural Perspective**

ZIP Code 36722, encompassing the town of Camden and surrounding rural areas in Wilcox County, Alabama, presents unique challenges to hypertension management. The primary concern is the significant impact of rurality on healthcare access.

The physician-to-patient ratio in this area is likely to be a key determinant of its Hypertension Score. Rural areas often face shortages of primary care physicians (PCPs), leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced opportunities for preventative care. This scarcity can translate to delayed diagnoses and inadequate follow-up for individuals with hypertension. The availability of specialists, such as cardiologists and nephrologists, is also likely limited, potentially forcing patients to travel long distances for specialized care.

The size and structure of medical practices in 36722 are also important. Many practices in rural areas are smaller, potentially lacking the resources to implement comprehensive hypertension management programs. This could include patient education initiatives, access to registered dietitians, and specialized nursing support. The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals, although increasing, may not be as widespread as in more urban settings. This can affect communication and care coordination.

Telemedicine adoption in 36722 could significantly improve the Hypertension Score. Telehealth consultations can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to access PCPs and specialists remotely. However, the success of telemedicine depends on reliable internet access, which can be a challenge in rural areas. The availability of devices and digital literacy among the patient population also play crucial roles.

Mental health resources in 36722 are another crucial factor. Hypertension is often associated with stress and anxiety, which can exacerbate the condition. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, is essential for addressing the psychological aspects of hypertension management. Rural areas often face shortages of mental health providers, which can hinder access to integrated care.

Standout practices in 36722, if any, would likely be those demonstrating innovative approaches to overcome the challenges of rural healthcare. This could include practices actively utilizing telemedicine, implementing patient-centered care models, and collaborating with community health organizations. These practices would likely have higher Hypertension Scores.

**Primary Care Availability in Arlington, Virginia: An Urban Advantage**

Arlington, Virginia, presents a contrasting picture with its urban environment and greater resources. The Hypertension Score here is likely to be higher due to the increased availability of healthcare services.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Arlington is generally favorable compared to rural areas. The concentration of healthcare providers, including PCPs, cardiologists, and other specialists, provides patients with greater choice and easier access to care. This can result in shorter wait times for appointments and more frequent follow-up visits, crucial for managing hypertension effectively.

Medical practices in Arlington tend to be larger and better-equipped, often offering comprehensive hypertension management programs. This includes access to patient education materials, lifestyle counseling, and medication management support. The adoption of EHRs and patient portals is likely widespread, improving communication and care coordination.

Telemedicine adoption is also likely to be prevalent in Arlington. The availability of high-speed internet and the tech-savvy patient population make telemedicine a viable option for many residents. This can enhance convenience and improve access to care, particularly for those with mobility issues or transportation challenges.

Mental health resources in Arlington are generally more accessible than in rural areas. The presence of numerous mental health professionals, including therapists, psychiatrists, and counselors, provides patients with greater opportunities to address the psychological aspects of hypertension. Integrated care models, where mental health services are offered within primary care practices, may also be more common.

Standout practices in Arlington would likely be those demonstrating excellence in hypertension management. This could include practices with high patient satisfaction scores, strong adherence to clinical guidelines, and innovative approaches to patient education and support. These practices would likely have the highest Hypertension Scores.

**Comparative Analysis and Conclusion**

Comparing the two locations, Arlington is likely to have a significantly higher Hypertension Score than ZIP Code 36722. The urban environment of Arlington provides greater access to healthcare resources, including PCPs, specialists, and mental health professionals. The adoption of telemedicine and the availability of comprehensive hypertension management programs are also likely to be more prevalent in Arlington.

ZIP Code 36722 faces significant challenges due to its rural location, including physician shortages, limited access to specialists, and potential barriers to telemedicine adoption. However, innovative approaches by individual practices and community health initiatives can improve the Hypertension Score in this area.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in these and other areas, consider exploring detailed maps and visualizations of healthcare resources. **Click here to learn more about CartoChrome maps and how they can help you visualize physician locations, practice characteristics, and other relevant data for both 36722 and Arlington.**