36723, Boykin, Alabama Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 36723, Boykin, Alabama is 7 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.94 percent of the residents in 36723 has some form of health insurance. 53.83 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 36.71 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 36723 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 208 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36723. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 40 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 63 health care providers accessible to residents in 36723, Boykin, Alabama.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 36723 & Primary Care in Boykin

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality within a specific geographic area requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on the doctors practicing in ZIP Code 36723 and the broader primary care landscape within Boykin, Alabama, assessing factors relevant to hypertension management. The goal is to provide a 'Hypertension Score' assessment, considering physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components of effective hypertension care.

ZIP Code 36723 encompasses a defined geographical area, and the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) within its boundaries is the initial point of evaluation. The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a fundamental metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced opportunities for preventative care, and potentially, delayed diagnosis and management of conditions like hypertension. Publicly available data from sources like the US Census Bureau and the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners, cross-referenced with local healthcare directories, can provide an estimated ratio. A critical assessment would involve comparing this ratio to state and national averages to gauge the relative adequacy of physician availability.

Beyond raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs within 36723 is important. Are practices clustered in certain areas, leaving others underserved? This spatial analysis necessitates examining the locations of clinics and hospitals within the ZIP Code. The presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or other safety-net providers is a positive indicator, particularly in areas with a higher proportion of underserved populations. These centers often offer comprehensive care, including hypertension screening, management, and patient education, at reduced costs.

Identifying 'standout practices' involves evaluating the quality of care provided. This requires looking beyond basic metrics and examining factors like patient satisfaction scores, the adoption of evidence-based guidelines for hypertension management, and the use of electronic health records (EHRs). EHRs facilitate better coordination of care, allowing physicians to easily access patient information, track blood pressure readings, and manage medication regimens. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, such as those offered by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), demonstrate a commitment to providing high-quality care.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and medication management through telehealth platforms can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can provide more frequent check-ins, facilitate medication adjustments, and offer educational resources, all of which contribute to better hypertension control. The level of patient and physician satisfaction with telemedicine services is also a key consideration.

The connection between mental health and hypertension is well-established. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can elevate blood pressure and hinder effective management. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within 36723 and the broader Boykin area is crucial. This includes access to psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed clinical social workers, and other mental health professionals. Practices that integrate mental health services into their primary care settings, or have established referral pathways to mental health providers, are better positioned to provide comprehensive care. The presence of support groups, educational programs, and community resources focused on stress management and mental well-being further enhances the quality of care.

Boykin, being a broader geographical area, requires a slightly different approach. While the physician-to-patient ratio within the ZIP Code is important, the availability of primary care within a reasonable travel distance for Boykin residents is also a key factor. This necessitates examining the location of practices in surrounding ZIP Codes and assessing transportation options for patients. Public transportation, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the presence of community outreach programs that provide transportation assistance are all relevant considerations.

The assessment of 'standout practices' in Boykin should extend beyond those located directly within 36723. Practices in neighboring areas that serve Boykin residents should be evaluated based on the same criteria: patient satisfaction, adherence to guidelines, EHR utilization, and telemedicine adoption. The presence of practices that offer specialized services, such as cardiology or endocrinology, can be particularly beneficial for patients with complex hypertension cases.

Telemedicine adoption in Boykin is particularly relevant given the potential for rural access challenges. Practices that offer telehealth services can bridge geographical barriers and provide convenient access to care for residents. Furthermore, the availability of remote blood pressure monitoring devices, coupled with telehealth consultations, can empower patients to actively participate in their own care and improve their blood pressure control.

The availability of mental health resources within Boykin, and the surrounding areas, is a critical component of the overall assessment. This involves identifying mental health providers, assessing their accessibility, and evaluating the availability of support services. The presence of community mental health centers, support groups, and educational programs can significantly improve the mental well-being of residents and contribute to better hypertension management.

The 'Hypertension Score' for 36723 and Boykin should be a composite measure, reflecting the various factors discussed. It should take into account the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of care provided by standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. A higher score would indicate better access to care, higher quality of care, and a greater likelihood of effective hypertension management.

This analysis is a starting point. A more detailed assessment would require access to more granular data, including patient-level information, practice-specific performance metrics, and community-level demographic data. However, the framework outlined provides a comprehensive approach to evaluating the healthcare landscape for hypertension management in 36723 and Boykin.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in 36723 and Boykin, including the locations of practices, hospitals, and mental health resources, and to analyze the spatial distribution of healthcare access, we recommend using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers powerful mapping and data visualization tools that can help you gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment and identify areas where improvements are needed.