35064, Fairfield, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 35064, Fairfield, Alabama is 88 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.84 percent of the residents in 35064 has some form of health insurance. 39.20 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.90 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 35064 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,482 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35064. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,439 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,748 health care providers accessible to residents in 35064, Fairfield, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Fairfield, Alabama (ZIP Code 35064)

Fairfield, Alabama, a city nestled within Jefferson County, presents a complex tapestry of health indicators. Assessing the overall health score for both the available medical professionals and the accessibility of primary care services necessitates a nuanced examination of several key factors. This analysis will delve into the physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, explore the adoption of telemedicine, and assess the availability of mental health resources within the 35064 ZIP code.

The foundation of a robust healthcare system lies in the availability of physicians. Determining the physician-to-patient ratio within Fairfield is crucial. National averages provide a benchmark, but local realities often paint a different picture. Data from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) and the Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) are essential to establish the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) actively practicing within the specified ZIP code. This number, compared to the population of Fairfield, provides a basic ratio. A lower ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, signals potential challenges in accessing timely medical care. Further analysis should consider the distribution of specialists and the presence of urgent care facilities to understand the overall healthcare landscape.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of healthcare delivery is paramount. Identifying standout practices requires evaluating several criteria. Patient reviews, available through platforms like Healthgrades and Zocdoc, offer valuable insights into patient satisfaction, communication, and the overall experience. Accreditation status, such as those awarded by the Joint Commission or the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC), reflects adherence to rigorous quality standards. The integration of electronic health records (EHRs) and the adoption of innovative technologies, such as patient portals for online appointment scheduling and communication, can significantly enhance efficiency and patient engagement. Examining these factors allows for a more informed assessment of the quality of care available within Fairfield.

Telemedicine has emerged as a transformative force in healthcare, particularly in areas with limited access to care. Assessing the adoption of telemedicine services within Fairfield is crucial. This involves determining the number of local practices offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and other telehealth services. Examining the types of services offered, the platforms utilized, and the availability of technical support for patients is important. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, improve access for individuals with mobility limitations, and enhance the overall efficiency of healthcare delivery. A high adoption rate indicates a proactive approach to expanding access and improving patient convenience.

Mental health is an integral component of overall well-being, and access to mental health resources is essential. Assessing the availability of mental health services within Fairfield requires identifying the number of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors practicing within the ZIP code. This includes determining the presence of mental health clinics, counseling centers, and other support services. Examining the availability of crisis intervention services, such as hotlines and emergency mental health services, is equally important. Furthermore, understanding the integration of mental health services within primary care practices, such as the availability of on-site therapists or referral pathways, can significantly impact access to care. A robust mental health infrastructure is a key indicator of a healthy community.

Primary care availability is a critical determinant of overall health. Evaluating the accessibility of primary care involves examining several factors. The number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the ZIP code, as previously mentioned, provides a foundational metric. The acceptance of new patients by these physicians is another critical indicator. Long wait times for appointments can create barriers to care, so analyzing appointment availability is important. The presence of walk-in clinics or urgent care facilities that offer primary care services can help mitigate access challenges. The acceptance of various insurance plans and the availability of financial assistance programs are also essential considerations, ensuring that healthcare is accessible to all residents, regardless of their socioeconomic status.

The socioeconomic profile of Fairfield also plays a significant role in its health outcomes. Factors such as poverty rates, educational attainment, and access to healthy food options can significantly impact health. These factors can influence the prevalence of chronic diseases, access to preventative care, and overall health outcomes. Analyzing data from the U.S. Census Bureau and other sources to understand the socioeconomic landscape of Fairfield is crucial for a comprehensive health assessment. This information can help identify areas of need and inform the development of targeted interventions to improve health outcomes.

The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. Analyzing the adoption of innovative healthcare models, such as patient-centered medical homes (PCMHs) and accountable care organizations (ACOs), can provide insights into the quality and coordination of care. PCMHs emphasize a team-based approach to care, with a focus on patient engagement and preventative care. ACOs aim to improve the quality and efficiency of care by coordinating services and sharing financial risk. The presence of these models within Fairfield suggests a commitment to improving the overall healthcare experience.

In conclusion, assessing the overall health score for Fairfield, Alabama (ZIP code 35064) requires a multifaceted approach. Evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, examining mental health resources, and analyzing primary care availability are all crucial components. Furthermore, considering the socioeconomic profile of the community and the adoption of innovative healthcare models provides a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape. This detailed analysis allows for a more complete picture of the health of the area.

To further explore and visualize the healthcare landscape of Fairfield and other areas, we encourage you to leverage the power of geographic data. CartoChrome maps can provide invaluable insights by visually representing health data, allowing for a more intuitive understanding of healthcare access, resource distribution, and community health trends. Explore CartoChrome maps today to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment.