35147, Sterrett, Alabama Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 35147, Sterrett, Alabama is 97 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.85 percent of the residents in 35147 has some form of health insurance. 28.58 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.16 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 35147 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,565 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35147. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 721 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,964 health care providers accessible to residents in 35147, Sterrett, Alabama.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 35147 & Primary Care in Sterrett

Analyzing the accessibility and quality of arthritis care within ZIP code 35147 and the broader primary care landscape in Sterrett, Alabama, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis, presented as an "Arthritis Score," will consider several key factors: physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial for comprehensive arthritis management. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare ecosystem and identify potential areas for improvement.

The first critical element is the physician-to-patient ratio. Determining the exact number of primary care physicians (PCPs) and rheumatologists practicing within 35147 and the surrounding areas is essential. Publicly available data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners can offer some insight. However, this data often lacks real-time accuracy, and the distribution of physicians within a specific ZIP code can be uneven. A low physician-to-patient ratio, especially for rheumatologists, suggests potential challenges in accessing timely diagnoses and treatment for arthritis. Patients may face longer wait times for appointments, impacting the progression of their condition and quality of life.

Next, we examine the presence of specialized practices. Are there dedicated rheumatology clinics within or immediately adjacent to 35147? The existence of such practices is a positive indicator. These clinics typically offer specialized expertise, diagnostic tools, and a range of treatment options, including disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and biologic therapies. Moreover, the presence of physical therapy and occupational therapy services within or near these clinics is crucial. These therapies are vital for managing pain, improving mobility, and maintaining function in individuals with arthritis. The absence of specialized practices, or the need to travel significant distances to access them, would negatively impact the Arthritis Score.

Telemedicine adoption is a significant factor in modern healthcare, especially for chronic conditions like arthritis. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, monitor patient progress remotely, and provide medication management can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services offered by local practices is crucial. Do physicians in 35147 utilize telehealth platforms for follow-up appointments, medication refills, and patient education? A high level of telemedicine adoption would positively influence the Arthritis Score, indicating a commitment to patient convenience and accessibility.

The integration of mental health resources is another critical aspect of arthritis care. Chronic pain and the limitations imposed by arthritis can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being. Depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions are common comorbidities. Therefore, the availability of mental health services, such as counseling and support groups, either within the primary care practices or through referrals, is essential. Practices that prioritize the mental health needs of their patients demonstrate a more holistic approach to care, improving the overall patient experience and treatment outcomes. The presence of these resources would contribute positively to the Arthritis Score.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the quality of care provided by local practices. This involves assessing patient reviews, satisfaction surveys, and the practices' adherence to evidence-based guidelines for arthritis management. Are the physicians board-certified in rheumatology or internal medicine? Do they participate in continuing medical education to stay abreast of the latest advancements in arthritis treatment? These factors are indicative of a commitment to providing high-quality, up-to-date care.

The primary care landscape in Sterrett, Alabama, presents a different set of considerations. While the focus in 35147 is on specialized rheumatology care, Sterrett's primary care availability is crucial for the initial diagnosis and ongoing management of arthritis. A robust primary care system ensures that patients can readily access medical attention for their symptoms. This includes timely referrals to rheumatologists when necessary. The availability of primary care physicians, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants in Sterrett is therefore a critical factor in the overall Arthritis Score.

Standout practices in the area, if any, would be identified based on the criteria mentioned above. This includes practices with a high physician-to-patient ratio, a strong focus on telemedicine, and a commitment to integrating mental health services. Additionally, practices that demonstrate a patient-centered approach, as evidenced by positive patient reviews and a commitment to evidence-based care, would be highlighted.

The Arthritis Score, therefore, is not a simple numerical rating but a comprehensive assessment based on multiple factors. It acknowledges the complex interplay of physician availability, access to specialized care, the adoption of technology, and the integration of mental health resources. The specific details of each factor are crucial for a complete picture.

This analysis, while providing a general overview, can only be as good as the data available. Publicly accessible data sources have limitations. To gain a truly accurate and detailed understanding of the healthcare landscape in 35147 and Sterrett, more in-depth research, including direct contact with local practices and healthcare providers, is necessary.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in 35147 and Sterrett, including the location of physician practices, the distribution of specialists, and the availability of healthcare resources, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their maps can help you visualize the data and gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare ecosystem in your area.