35060, Docena, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 35060, Docena, Alabama is 89 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.22 percent of the residents in 35060 has some form of health insurance. 29.89 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.33 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 35060 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 44 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35060. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 55 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,597 health care providers accessible to residents in 35060, Docena, Alabama.

**Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 35060 and Primary Care Availability in Docena**

Assessing the overall health landscape within ZIP code 35060, encompassing the community of Docena, requires a multifaceted approach. An "Overall Health Score" isn't a single, easily quantifiable metric. It's a complex evaluation considering several interconnected elements. This analysis will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, identify standout practices, examine telemedicine adoption, and scrutinize the availability of mental health resources. This will provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare accessibility and quality within this specific geographic area.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of healthcare access. A low ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially poorer health outcomes. Determining the precise ratio for 35060 necessitates data from various sources, including the US Census Bureau, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), and local medical associations. This data must be analyzed to accurately determine the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) and specialists actively practicing within the ZIP code and compare this number to the total population. A low ratio warrants investigation, potentially indicating a need for physician recruitment initiatives or the expansion of existing practices.

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors. Patient reviews, collected through platforms like Healthgrades, Vitals, and Zocdoc, offer valuable insights into patient satisfaction, communication, and the overall patient experience. Reviews should be carefully scrutinized for patterns. Are patients consistently praising a particular physician's bedside manner? Are they highlighting the efficiency of the office staff? Are there recurring complaints about wait times or access to care? Beyond patient reviews, examining the accreditation status of local hospitals and clinics, and their commitment to evidence-based medicine, is crucial. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement programs and demonstrate a commitment to continuous learning and improvement are generally considered superior.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, providing patients with access to specialists and primary care physicians remotely. The level of telemedicine adoption within 35060 is a critical consideration. Are local practices offering virtual appointments? Are they utilizing secure platforms for patient communication and remote monitoring? The availability of reliable internet access within the community is also a factor, as it is essential for successful telemedicine implementation. Practices that embrace telemedicine can significantly enhance access to care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in remote areas.

The availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of overall health. Mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety, are widespread and can significantly impact physical health and overall well-being. Assessing the mental health landscape in 35060 involves determining the availability of psychiatrists, therapists, counselors, and support groups. Are there local mental health clinics? Are these clinics accepting new patients? Are they equipped to treat a range of mental health conditions? The integration of mental health services into primary care settings is also an important factor. Practices that offer integrated behavioral health services can provide more comprehensive and coordinated care, improving patient outcomes.

Beyond the availability of direct services, the presence of community-based mental health resources is also important. This includes support groups, crisis hotlines, and educational programs. A strong community support system can help individuals manage their mental health and access the care they need.

The quality of care is also influenced by the socio-economic factors within the community. The prevalence of chronic diseases, such as diabetes and heart disease, can be influenced by factors such as income, education, and access to healthy food. Assessing these factors is important for understanding the overall health needs of the community and for developing targeted interventions.

The overall health score for 35060, and specifically Docena, is not a static number. It is a dynamic assessment that requires ongoing monitoring and evaluation. Changes in physician availability, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources can significantly impact the overall health score. Regular assessments, based on the factors outlined above, are essential for identifying areas of strength and weakness and for guiding efforts to improve healthcare access and quality within the community.

Understanding the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, including the location of doctors, hospitals, and clinics, is essential for assessing healthcare access. CartoChrome maps provide powerful visualization tools that can help to identify areas with limited access to care. By visualizing the location of healthcare providers, along with population density and other relevant data, CartoChrome maps can help to identify potential healthcare deserts and inform strategies to improve healthcare access.