35217, Birmingham, Alabama Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 35217, Birmingham, Alabama is 92 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.18 percent of the residents in 35217 has some form of health insurance. 47.71 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 44.74 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 35217 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,105 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 115 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35217. An estimate of 109 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,105 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 29,407 health care providers accessible to residents in 35217, Birmingham, Alabama.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Birmingham, AL (ZIP Code 35217) & Primary Care Landscape

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) within Birmingham, Alabama, specifically focusing on the 35217 ZIP code and its implications for individuals managing arthritis. The objective is to provide an "Arthritis Score" assessment, considering factors relevant to arthritis patients, such as physician accessibility, practice features, and ancillary support. This analysis will also examine the broader primary care landscape in Birmingham, offering context for the 35217 area.

The 35217 ZIP code, encompassing portions of Birmingham, is a crucial area for assessment. The presence of adequate primary care is vital for arthritis patients, as PCPs often serve as the first point of contact for diagnosis, management, and referral to specialists like rheumatologists. The "Arthritis Score" will reflect the ease with which individuals in this area can access timely and appropriate care.

One critical factor in the "Arthritis Score" is the physician-to-patient ratio. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to care, and potentially delayed treatment for arthritis symptoms. Analyzing the number of PCPs practicing within 35217, compared to the estimated population, is paramount. This involves gathering data from sources like the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners and health insurance provider directories. The analysis will assess whether the ratio meets the needs of the population, considering the prevalence of arthritis, which is higher among older adults, a demographic that may be present in 35217.

Beyond simple numbers, the analysis will investigate the specific characteristics of primary care practices within the 35217 area. This includes evaluating the presence of electronic health records (EHRs), which can improve care coordination and information sharing between physicians. Practices utilizing EHRs are often better equipped to manage patient data, track treatment effectiveness, and facilitate communication with specialists, all of which are beneficial for arthritis management.

Another key element is the adoption of telemedicine. Telemedicine offers a valuable avenue for arthritis patients, especially those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Virtual consultations allow for remote monitoring of symptoms, medication adjustments, and follow-up appointments. The "Arthritis Score" will consider the availability of telemedicine options within the 35217 area, including the types of services offered and the ease of access for patients.

The "Arthritis Score" will also consider the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through readily accessible referral networks. Arthritis can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to increased rates of depression and anxiety. Practices that integrate mental health services or have established partnerships with mental health professionals are better equipped to provide holistic care for arthritis patients. This includes assessing the presence of on-site therapists, access to mental health support groups, and the ease with which patients can obtain referrals.

Identifying standout practices is an important component of the analysis. This involves researching practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, have positive patient reviews, and offer specialized services that benefit arthritis patients. This might include practices with dedicated care coordinators, specialized physical therapy programs, or strong partnerships with rheumatologists. The analysis will highlight these practices, offering a guide for patients seeking high-quality care.

The broader primary care landscape in Birmingham provides context for the 35217 area. Examining the overall physician-to-patient ratio in the city, as well as the distribution of PCPs across different ZIP codes, helps determine whether 35217 faces unique challenges in terms of access to care. This involves analyzing data from the same sources used for the 35217 assessment, comparing the ratio to national averages and considering the socioeconomic factors that might influence access to care.

Furthermore, the analysis will consider the availability of ancillary services that are beneficial for arthritis patients. This includes access to physical therapy, occupational therapy, and pain management specialists. The presence of these services within the 35217 area or through readily accessible referral networks will contribute to the overall "Arthritis Score." The analysis will also consider the availability of resources related to medication management, such as pharmacy services and medication assistance programs.

The "Arthritis Score" will not be a single numerical value but a comprehensive assessment based on multiple factors. The final analysis will synthesize the collected data to provide a clear picture of the primary care landscape in 35217, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement. The goal is to empower individuals with arthritis to make informed decisions about their healthcare and to advocate for better access to care in their community.

The analysis will also consider the impact of health insurance coverage on access to care. Examining the types of insurance accepted by primary care practices in 35217, as well as the availability of financial assistance programs for uninsured or underinsured patients, is critical. This ensures that the "Arthritis Score" reflects the realities of healthcare access for all residents of the area.

In conclusion, this "Arthritis Score" analysis will provide a valuable resource for individuals in the 35217 ZIP code, as well as for healthcare providers and policymakers. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the primary care landscape, stakeholders can work together to improve access to care, enhance the quality of services, and ultimately improve the lives of individuals living with arthritis.

Want to visualize the primary care landscape in Birmingham and explore the distribution of physicians and resources? Click here to explore CartoChrome maps and gain a deeper understanding of healthcare access in your community.