36907, Cuba, Alabama Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 36907, Cuba, Alabama is 5 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.67 percent of the residents in 36907 has some form of health insurance. 65.22 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 44.44 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 36907 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 406 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36907. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 564 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 12 health care providers accessible to residents in 36907, Cuba, Alabama.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Cuba, Alabama (ZIP Code 36907)

Analyzing hypertension management within Cuba, Alabama (ZIP Code 36907) requires a multifaceted approach. This assessment considers the availability of primary care physicians, the adoption of innovative healthcare practices, and the integration of mental health resources, all contributing to a "Hypertension Score." This score, while not a formal metric, provides a qualitative understanding of the community's capacity to effectively address and manage hypertension, a significant public health concern.

The foundation of effective hypertension management lies in accessible primary care. The physician-to-patient ratio in Cuba, and by extension, the surrounding Sumter County, is a critical factor. Rural areas often face challenges in attracting and retaining physicians. A low physician-to-patient ratio indicates a potential strain on existing resources, leading to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and ultimately, potentially compromised care. Research into the specific physician-to-patient ratio within the 36907 ZIP code and the broader county is paramount. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) can provide valuable insights, although the data's recency must be considered.

Beyond raw numbers, the distribution of primary care physicians is crucial. Are physicians concentrated in a single practice, or are they spread across multiple clinics? The presence of a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) or a rural health clinic significantly impacts the "Hypertension Score." These clinics often provide a safety net for underserved populations, offering comprehensive primary care services, including hypertension screening, diagnosis, and management. Their existence, and the quality of care they deliver, directly impacts the community’s ability to control hypertension.

Standout practices within the 36907 area warrant specific attention. Identifying primary care practices that demonstrate exemplary hypertension management protocols is essential. This includes examining the implementation of evidence-based guidelines, such as those established by the American Heart Association (AHA) and the American College of Cardiology (ACC). Practices that actively screen patients for hypertension, regularly monitor blood pressure, and aggressively manage elevated readings through medication and lifestyle interventions contribute positively to the "Hypertension Score." Furthermore, the use of electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient data, facilitate medication management, and generate patient reminders is a crucial element of effective care.

The adoption of telemedicine plays a vital role in overcoming geographical barriers and increasing access to care, especially in rural settings. Telemedicine, encompassing remote consultations, remote patient monitoring, and virtual education programs, can significantly improve hypertension management. Practices that embrace telemedicine can provide more frequent and convenient follow-up appointments, allowing for better monitoring of blood pressure and medication adherence. The availability of remote patient monitoring devices, such as blood pressure cuffs that transmit readings directly to the physician, can be a game-changer. The extent of telemedicine adoption, including the types of services offered and the patient population served, directly influences the "Hypertension Score."

The intricate link between mental health and hypertension cannot be ignored. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can contribute to elevated blood pressure and hinder effective management. The availability of mental health resources within the community is therefore a critical component of the overall assessment. Does the community have access to mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers? Are mental health services integrated into primary care practices? The presence of these resources, and the extent to which they are utilized, directly impacts the community's ability to manage hypertension. Practices that screen patients for mental health conditions and offer integrated behavioral health services contribute positively to the "Hypertension Score."

The "Hypertension Score" is also influenced by community-level factors. The prevalence of healthy food options, opportunities for physical activity, and access to health education programs all play a role in preventing and managing hypertension. The availability of farmer's markets, walking trails, and community health programs contributes to a healthier environment. The existence of programs focused on promoting healthy eating habits, such as the DASH diet, and encouraging regular physical activity can significantly improve patient outcomes.

Evaluating the quality of care requires looking beyond the availability of resources. Patient outcomes, such as blood pressure control rates, are critical indicators. Are patients in the community effectively managing their hypertension? Data on blood pressure control rates, medication adherence, and rates of cardiovascular events, while often difficult to obtain at a granular level, provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of current management strategies. Analyzing this data, even if obtained through indirect means, is essential for a comprehensive assessment.

The overall "Hypertension Score" for Cuba, Alabama (36907) is therefore a complex assessment. It is a reflection of the interplay between physician availability, the adoption of innovative healthcare practices, the integration of mental health resources, and community-level factors. A low score suggests a need for improvement, while a high score indicates a community that is well-equipped to manage hypertension effectively. Further research into the specific details of each of these factors is necessary to provide a more precise and actionable assessment.

To visualize and analyze the data related to hypertension management in Cuba, Alabama (36907), and to compare it with other areas, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a powerful visual representation of the data, allowing for a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the community. Explore the possibilities of CartoChrome maps to gain valuable insights and inform your efforts to improve hypertension management in Cuba, Alabama.