35077, Hanceville, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 35077, Hanceville, Alabama is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.92 percent of the residents in 35077 has some form of health insurance. 46.31 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.15 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 35077 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,156 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 10 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35077. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,977 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,838 health care providers accessible to residents in 35077, Hanceville, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Hanceville, Alabama (ZIP Code 35077)

Evaluating the overall health landscape of Hanceville, Alabama (ZIP code 35077) requires a comprehensive analysis, moving beyond simple metrics to consider factors like physician availability, quality of care, access to specialized services, and the integration of modern healthcare technologies. This analysis aims to provide an “Overall Health Score” assessment, considering these various components.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Primary Care Availability:**

A fundamental indicator of community health is the physician-to-patient ratio. While precise, real-time data is constantly fluctuating, publicly available information suggests a potential challenge in Hanceville. A lower number of primary care physicians per capita can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced preventative care opportunities, and potentially delayed diagnoses. This can negatively impact the overall health of the population. Further investigation into the specific number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the ZIP code is essential to solidify this assessment.

The availability of primary care physicians is further complicated by geographic considerations. Hanceville, as a more rural community, may face challenges in attracting and retaining healthcare professionals. This can be due to factors like lower compensation compared to urban areas, limited access to specialized medical facilities, and a perceived lack of professional opportunities. The proximity of other medical centers in the surrounding area, such as Cullman Regional Medical Center, does provide some level of support, but the reliance on outside resources can create access difficulties for those with transportation limitations or other barriers.

**Standout Practices and Quality of Care:**

Identifying "standout practices" necessitates examining various factors, including patient reviews, accreditation status, and the range of services offered. Practices with a strong reputation for patient satisfaction, a commitment to evidence-based medicine, and a focus on preventative care are likely to contribute positively to the overall health score. The presence of board-certified physicians, the availability of specialized services (such as cardiology, dermatology, or gastroenterology), and the implementation of advanced diagnostic technologies all contribute to the quality of care.

Assessing the quality of care also involves evaluating health outcomes data, such as rates of chronic disease management, hospital readmission rates, and preventative screening compliance. Publicly available data sources, such as those maintained by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), can provide valuable insights into these metrics. However, it is important to note that this data is often limited and may not fully reflect the nuances of individual practices or the unique needs of the Hanceville population.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact:**

Telemedicine offers a significant opportunity to improve healthcare access, particularly in rural communities like Hanceville. The adoption of telemedicine technologies, such as virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring, and online prescription refills, can help overcome geographic barriers and provide convenient access to care.

The extent of telemedicine adoption within the ZIP code is a crucial factor in the overall health score. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are likely to offer greater flexibility and convenience for patients, especially those with mobility limitations, transportation challenges, or busy schedules. Telemedicine can also facilitate access to specialists who may not be readily available in the local area. The availability of reliable internet access within the community is a critical prerequisite for successful telemedicine implementation.

**Mental Health Resources and Support:**

Mental health is an integral component of overall well-being. The availability of mental health resources, including psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and support groups, significantly impacts the health score. A community with limited mental health resources may experience higher rates of mental illness, substance abuse, and suicide.

Assessing mental health resource availability involves identifying the number of mental health professionals practicing within the ZIP code, the types of services offered (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), and the accessibility of these services (e.g., insurance acceptance, sliding-scale fees). The presence of community mental health centers, crisis intervention services, and support programs for specific populations (e.g., veterans, children, and adolescents) also contributes to a more robust mental health infrastructure. The integration of mental health services into primary care settings is also a positive indicator, as it can facilitate early detection and treatment of mental health conditions.

**Overall Health Score Conclusion:**

Based on the factors discussed, the overall health score for Hanceville, Alabama (ZIP code 35077) is likely to be moderate, with potential challenges in primary care physician availability and the need for further development of mental health resources. The presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the proximity of larger medical facilities offer some mitigating factors. A more detailed analysis, incorporating specific data on physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption rates, and mental health resource availability, would provide a more precise and nuanced assessment.

**Explore the Healthcare Landscape with CartoChrome Maps:**

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Hanceville and surrounding areas, including the locations of medical facilities, physician specialties, and demographic data, explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides a visual and intuitive platform for analyzing healthcare data, allowing you to identify areas with limited access to care, track healthcare trends, and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.