36786, Uniontown, Alabama Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 36786, Uniontown, Alabama is 8 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.43 percent of the residents in 36786 has some form of health insurance. 59.64 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 32.85 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 36786 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 582 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36786. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 273 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 80 health care providers accessible to residents in 36786, Uniontown, Alabama.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Uniontown, AL (ZIP Code 36786)

Uniontown, Alabama, nestled within ZIP code 36786, presents a unique challenge in healthcare delivery, particularly concerning hypertension management. This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care services, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, culminating in a "Hypertension Score" assessment for physicians within the area. The score, though not a formal, standardized metric, reflects a qualitative evaluation based on available data and contextual understanding.

The cornerstone of hypertension management lies in accessible and effective primary care. In Uniontown, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. Data indicates a scarcity of primary care physicians compared to the population size. This scarcity directly impacts access to regular check-ups, preventative care, and consistent monitoring – all crucial for controlling hypertension. This initial assessment immediately flags a potential area of concern, suggesting a need for innovative solutions to bridge the gap in care.

Examining the practices within the ZIP code reveals a landscape that, while limited, offers some points of distinction. Identifying standout practices requires a nuanced approach. We need to consider factors such as patient reviews, the range of services offered (including in-house diagnostic capabilities), and the practice's commitment to patient education. Practices that prioritize patient education, providing clear and concise information about lifestyle modifications, medication adherence, and the importance of regular blood pressure monitoring, tend to demonstrate better patient outcomes. The presence of certified diabetes educators or registered dietitians within a practice further enhances its ability to support patients with hypertension, often co-occurring with diabetes.

Telemedicine adoption presents a significant opportunity in Uniontown. Given the geographical limitations and potential transportation challenges faced by residents, telehealth can expand access to care. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and medication management support, deserve recognition. The effectiveness of telemedicine hinges on several factors: the availability of reliable internet access for patients, the ease of use of the telehealth platform, and the physician's comfort and proficiency in utilizing the technology. Successful telemedicine integration can significantly improve patient engagement and adherence to treatment plans.

The often-overlooked aspect of hypertension management is the connection between physical and mental health. Stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure levels. Therefore, the integration of mental health resources within primary care practices is crucial. Practices that offer on-site mental health services, or have established referral networks with local therapists and psychiatrists, demonstrate a more holistic approach to patient care. This integrated approach allows for early identification and management of mental health concerns, which can contribute to better blood pressure control. The availability of mental health support is a significant factor in the overall Hypertension Score.

The "Hypertension Score" for physicians in 36786, therefore, is a composite of these factors. A practice with a high score would exhibit the following characteristics: a strong physician-to-patient ratio (or innovative strategies to mitigate its impact), a commitment to patient education, robust telemedicine adoption, and integrated mental health resources. Conversely, practices with limited resources, a lack of telemedicine capabilities, and no mental health integration would receive a lower score. The score is not a definitive ranking but rather a reflection of the practice's ability to address the multifaceted needs of patients with hypertension.

The overall picture for Uniontown, 36786, reveals a need for improvement. The scarcity of primary care physicians is a significant hurdle. While some practices may be implementing best practices, the limited availability of resources and the challenges of a rural setting create barriers to optimal hypertension management.

The need for community-based solutions is evident. Initiatives to attract and retain primary care physicians, expand telemedicine access, and integrate mental health services are crucial. Public health campaigns to raise awareness about hypertension, promote healthy lifestyles, and encourage regular check-ups are also essential.

The ability to visualize this data geographically can provide valuable insights. CartoChrome maps can be used to map the location of primary care practices, identify areas with limited access to care, and visualize the distribution of patients with hypertension. By layering this data with information on socioeconomic factors, transportation barriers, and the availability of community resources, a more comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities in hypertension management can be achieved. This visualization allows for targeted interventions and resource allocation.

To further explore the healthcare landscape of Uniontown, AL, and visualize the data discussed, we encourage you to utilize the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps can help you identify areas with limited access to care, analyze physician distribution, and explore the impact of socioeconomic factors on hypertension management. Visit CartoChrome today to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare challenges and opportunities within ZIP code 36786 and beyond.