35006, Adger, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 35006, Adger, Alabama is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.59 percent of the residents in 35006 has some form of health insurance. 43.74 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.25 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 35006 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 777 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35006. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 855 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 788 health care providers accessible to residents in 35006, Adger, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Adger, Alabama (ZIP Code 35006)

Analyzing the overall health landscape in Adger, Alabama (ZIP code 35006) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians, assess the physician-to-patient ratio, examine the adoption of telemedicine, and evaluate the accessibility of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' assessment, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and areas for potential improvement within the community.

The foundation of a healthy community rests on accessible primary care. In Adger, the availability of primary care physicians is a critical factor. Data from various sources, including the U.S. Census Bureau, the Alabama Department of Public Health, and professional medical directories, needs to be aggregated to determine the number of practicing primary care physicians within the specified ZIP code and its immediate surrounding areas. This initial step establishes the baseline for evaluating the community’s access to essential healthcare services.

Once the number of primary care physicians is established, the physician-to-patient ratio can be calculated. This ratio, expressed as the number of patients per physician, is a crucial indicator of access to care. A higher ratio suggests a potential shortage of physicians, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and increased strain on existing healthcare providers. Conversely, a lower ratio indicates better access to care. The ideal ratio varies depending on the population's demographics and health needs. Comparing the physician-to-patient ratio in Adger to state and national averages provides a valuable context for understanding the local healthcare landscape.

Identifying standout practices within the community is essential. This involves researching the quality of care provided by local primary care clinics and individual physicians. Factors to consider include patient satisfaction scores, the range of services offered (e.g., preventative care, chronic disease management), the use of electronic health records, and the practice's commitment to patient education. Information can be gathered from patient reviews, online ratings, and professional organizations. Highlighting exemplary practices can serve as a benchmark for other providers and inform residents about the best options for their healthcare needs.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical aspect of healthcare access. Telemedicine, which utilizes technology to provide healthcare services remotely, can significantly improve access to care, especially for individuals in rural areas like Adger. Assessing the prevalence of telemedicine services involves determining which local primary care practices offer telehealth appointments, the types of services offered via telemedicine (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), and the technology infrastructure available to support these services. Evaluating the adoption of telemedicine provides insight into how the community utilizes technology to improve healthcare access and convenience.

The availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of overall health. Assessing mental health access involves identifying the number of mental health professionals (e.g., psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists) practicing in the area, as well as the availability of mental health clinics, counseling services, and support groups. Examining the accessibility of these resources, including insurance acceptance, appointment wait times, and the availability of services for specific populations (e.g., children, veterans), is essential. The integration of mental health services with primary care practices is also a significant factor, as it can improve coordination of care and reduce the stigma associated with mental health issues.

The overall health score is a synthesis of the factors discussed above. It is not a single number but a qualitative assessment that reflects the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in Adger. A high score would indicate a strong primary care infrastructure, a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, widespread telemedicine adoption, and readily accessible mental health resources. A low score would suggest the opposite, highlighting potential challenges in accessing healthcare services. The final score should be accompanied by specific recommendations for improvement, such as increasing the number of primary care physicians, promoting telemedicine adoption, and expanding mental health services.

Analyzing the healthcare landscape in Adger also involves considering the broader context of the community. Factors such as socioeconomic status, demographics, and the prevalence of chronic diseases can significantly impact health outcomes. Understanding these factors is essential for developing targeted interventions and improving the overall health of the community. Data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and local health organizations can provide valuable insights into these factors.

The assessment of the healthcare landscape in Adger is an ongoing process. Regular monitoring and evaluation are necessary to track progress, identify emerging challenges, and ensure that the community's healthcare needs are being met. This includes gathering updated data on physician availability, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. It also involves engaging with community stakeholders, including healthcare providers, patients, and local organizations, to gather feedback and identify areas for improvement.

In conclusion, evaluating the overall health score in Adger, Alabama (ZIP code 35006) is a complex undertaking. By analyzing the availability of primary care physicians, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, a comprehensive picture of the community's healthcare landscape can be developed. This analysis serves as a valuable tool for healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members to identify areas for improvement and work towards a healthier future for Adger.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Adger, including maps of physician locations, service areas, and demographic data, explore the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome.