35035, Brierfield, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 35035, Brierfield, Alabama is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 78.91 percent of the residents in 35035 has some form of health insurance. 29.97 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.37 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 35035 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 241 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35035. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 106 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 935 health care providers accessible to residents in 35035, Brierfield, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 35035 and Primary Care Availability in Brierfield

Evaluating the overall health landscape within a defined geographical area requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on the doctors practicing within ZIP code 35035 and the primary care availability specifically in Brierfield, Alabama. We will delve into key indicators, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. This assessment aims to provide a comprehensive ‘Overall Health Score’ for the region, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem.

The foundation of any health assessment begins with understanding the availability of primary care physicians. ZIP code 35035, encompassing a wider geographical area, likely presents a more complex picture than the smaller town of Brierfield. Data from the U.S. Census Bureau and the Alabama Department of Public Health is crucial in determining the population size and then contrasting this with the number of actively practicing primary care physicians. A low physician-to-patient ratio, which means a higher number of patients per doctor, could indicate potential access challenges. Conversely, a favorable ratio suggests better access to routine medical care, preventative services, and ongoing health management.

Brierfield, as a smaller community, may face unique challenges. Rural areas often struggle with physician recruitment and retention. The presence of a dedicated primary care practice is paramount. The size of the practice, the types of services offered (e.g., internal medicine, family medicine), and the hours of operation all contribute to the overall health score. A single practice with limited hours could negatively impact the score, while a multi-specialty clinic with extended hours would significantly improve it.

Beyond the basic physician-to-patient ratio, identifying standout practices is essential. These are healthcare providers that excel in specific areas, demonstrating a commitment to quality care and patient satisfaction. This can be assessed through patient reviews, accreditations (e.g., from the Joint Commission), and the adoption of innovative practices. A practice recognized for its patient-centered approach, its use of electronic health records, or its commitment to preventative medicine would positively influence the overall score.

The adoption of telemedicine is another critical factor in the modern healthcare landscape. Telemedicine, which includes virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, can significantly improve access to care, particularly for those in rural areas or with mobility limitations. The presence of telemedicine options, such as virtual appointments or remote monitoring programs, can significantly increase the overall health score, demonstrating a commitment to patient convenience and accessibility.

Mental health resources are an integral part of overall health. The availability of mental health services, including psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors, is crucial. Assessing the presence of mental health providers within the area, along with their accessibility (e.g., accepting new patients, insurance coverage), plays a significant role in the health score. The integration of mental health services into primary care practices, for example, could also boost the score.

Further complicating the picture, the socioeconomic factors within the region must also be considered. Factors such as income levels, education levels, and access to transportation can all impact health outcomes. Areas with lower socioeconomic indicators may experience more significant health disparities, making it essential to account for these factors in the overall assessment.

The overall health score is not a static number. It is a dynamic measure that reflects the evolving healthcare landscape. Ongoing monitoring and analysis are necessary to track changes and identify areas for improvement. This includes the availability of specialty care, such as cardiology, dermatology, and gastroenterology, as well as the presence of community health initiatives and programs.

The health score can be further refined by incorporating data on health outcomes. For example, tracking rates of chronic diseases, such as diabetes and heart disease, can provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of the local healthcare system. Similarly, monitoring vaccination rates and preventative screening rates can provide a more complete picture of the population's health.

This analysis, therefore, emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive approach to evaluating the health of a community. It requires a detailed examination of various factors, from physician-to-patient ratios and telemedicine adoption to mental health resources and socioeconomic indicators. By assessing these factors, we can gain a more complete understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system and identify areas for improvement.

Ultimately, the goal is to promote a healthier community. By providing a clear and accurate assessment of the healthcare landscape, we can empower residents to make informed decisions about their health and encourage healthcare providers to improve the quality and accessibility of their services. This data also provides an opportunity for local governments and community organizations to identify gaps in care and develop strategies to address them.

For a more detailed and visually engaging understanding of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 35035 and Brierfield, Alabama, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome. Their platform allows for a dynamic visualization of healthcare data, enabling you to explore physician locations, access to care, and other relevant information in a user-friendly and informative way.