35022, Bessemer, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 35022, Bessemer, Alabama is 92 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.93 percent of the residents in 35022 has some form of health insurance. 33.15 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.06 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 35022 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,127 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35022. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,237 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,027 health care providers accessible to residents in 35022, Bessemer, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 35022 and Primary Care Availability in Bessemer

Analyzing the overall health landscape within ZIP Code 35022 and the broader context of primary care availability in Bessemer requires a multi-faceted approach. It necessitates evaluating the density of healthcare providers, the accessibility of services, the adoption of modern technologies, and the integration of mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide an informed perspective on the health of the community, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement.

ZIP Code 35022, encompassing portions of Bessemer, faces a unique set of challenges and opportunities. The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a critical indicator of access. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times, reduced appointment availability, and potentially, delayed diagnoses. Assessing this ratio involves examining the number of practicing physicians, including primary care physicians (PCPs), specialists, and other healthcare professionals, relative to the population size within the specified ZIP code. Publicly available data from sources like the U.S. Census Bureau and the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners, combined with data from healthcare directories, can provide the raw numbers needed for this calculation.

The primary care availability within Bessemer, as a whole, is also crucial. This is the cornerstone of preventative care and overall well-being. Examining the distribution of PCPs across the city, not just within 35022, is essential. Are there areas with limited access, creating "healthcare deserts"? Transportation limitations, socioeconomic factors, and insurance coverage all play a role in determining how easily residents can access these essential services.

Standout practices within the area deserve recognition. Identifying clinics or medical groups that consistently demonstrate excellence in patient care, utilize innovative technologies, or offer specialized services can illuminate best practices. This assessment considers factors such as patient satisfaction scores, the availability of extended hours, the integration of electronic health records (EHRs), and the range of services offered. These practices often serve as models for others, driving improvements in the overall healthcare ecosystem.

Telemedicine adoption is a key element of modern healthcare. The ability to consult with a physician remotely, via video or phone, can significantly improve access to care, particularly for those with mobility issues, limited transportation options, or residing in underserved areas. Evaluating the prevalence of telemedicine services among providers in 35022 and Bessemer, including the types of services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, prescription refills, remote monitoring), and the ease of access, is vital. The degree to which providers have integrated telemedicine into their practices can reveal their commitment to innovation and patient convenience.

Mental health resources are increasingly recognized as an integral part of overall well-being. Assessing the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed counselors, within 35022 and Bessemer is crucial. Are there enough providers to meet the community's needs? Are mental health services integrated into primary care settings? Are there support groups or other community resources available? The presence of these resources and the ease with which individuals can access them can significantly impact the health of the community.

Several factors influence access to healthcare. Insurance coverage, or the lack thereof, is a major barrier. The acceptance of various insurance plans by local providers, including Medicaid, Medicare, and private insurance, is a critical consideration. The cost of care, including co-pays, deductibles, and the overall price of medical services, also plays a role. Furthermore, the cultural competency of healthcare providers, their ability to understand and address the needs of diverse populations, is essential for equitable access.

Socioeconomic factors also significantly impact health outcomes. Poverty, unemployment, and lack of access to healthy food options can contribute to chronic health conditions. Addressing these social determinants of health is crucial for improving the overall health of the community. Collaboration between healthcare providers, social service agencies, and community organizations is essential to address these complex issues.

The availability of specialized care, such as cardiology, oncology, and other specialties, is another important consideration. While primary care serves as the foundation, access to specialists is often necessary for managing complex health conditions. The proximity of specialist physicians, the wait times for appointments, and the referral processes all impact the overall healthcare experience.

Data collection and analysis are essential for this evaluation. Public health departments, hospitals, and other healthcare organizations often collect valuable data on healthcare utilization, health outcomes, and other relevant metrics. Analyzing this data can provide insights into the health of the community and identify areas where improvements are needed.

The overall health score for ZIP Code 35022 and Bessemer, therefore, is not a simple number. It's a complex assessment that considers a multitude of factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, primary care availability, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, along with other crucial elements, all contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the health landscape.

For a more in-depth visualization of the healthcare landscape in Bessemer and surrounding areas, including physician locations, service availability, and demographic data, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful tool for understanding the spatial distribution of healthcare resources and identifying areas of need.