35087, Joppa, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 35087, Joppa, Alabama is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.64 percent of the residents in 35087 has some form of health insurance. 43.60 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.81 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 35087 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 557 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 9 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35087. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 307 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,605 health care providers accessible to residents in 35087, Joppa, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Joppa, Alabama (ZIP Code 35087)

Analyzing the overall health landscape of Joppa, Alabama (ZIP code 35087) requires a multifaceted approach, considering various factors impacting resident well-being. This analysis assesses primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. Ultimately, this evaluation aims to provide an 'Overall Health Score' reflecting the community's access to and quality of healthcare services.

Joppa, a small community, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare. The limited population density can impact the availability of medical professionals and specialized services. Understanding these nuances is crucial for a comprehensive assessment.

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

Primary care physicians (PCPs) serve as the cornerstone of healthcare, providing preventative care, diagnosing illnesses, and coordinating specialist referrals. The availability of PCPs in Joppa is a critical indicator of the community's health. Data on the number of practicing PCPs within the ZIP code, compared to the population size, determines the physician-to-patient ratio. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per resident, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to care, and potentially poorer health outcomes.

Researching the specific number of PCPs actively practicing within 35087 is paramount. Publicly available data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) or state medical boards can provide this information. Additionally, assessing the geographic distribution of these physicians within the ZIP code is essential. Are the practices clustered in one area, or are they distributed to serve the entire community? This spatial analysis helps identify potential healthcare deserts where access is particularly limited.

The ideal physician-to-patient ratio varies, but generally, a lower ratio is preferable. Comparing Joppa's ratio to national or state averages provides a valuable benchmark. If the ratio is significantly higher than these benchmarks, it suggests a potential shortage of PCPs, necessitating further investigation into the causes and possible solutions.

**Standout Practices and Quality of Care:**

Identifying and evaluating the quality of care provided by existing medical practices is another vital aspect of the analysis. This involves examining factors such as the practice's accreditation status, patient satisfaction scores, and the range of services offered.

Researching local medical practices, including family medicine clinics and internal medicine offices, is essential. Websites like Healthgrades or Vitals can provide patient reviews and ratings, offering insights into patient experiences. Examining the practice's accreditation status, such as accreditation by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC), can also indicate a commitment to quality standards.

Furthermore, assessing the scope of services offered by each practice is crucial. Do they provide comprehensive primary care, including preventive screenings, chronic disease management, and immunizations? Do they have on-site laboratory services or imaging capabilities? The availability of these services can significantly impact the convenience and accessibility of care for residents.

**Telemedicine Adoption:**

Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine can overcome geographical barriers, providing access to specialists and other healthcare services that might not be readily available locally.

Assessing the adoption of telemedicine by local practices is a key factor in the overall health score. Do local physicians offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, or other telehealth services? Examining practice websites and contacting the offices directly can provide this information.

The availability of reliable internet access in Joppa is also a crucial consideration. Without adequate internet connectivity, telemedicine services are ineffective. The analysis should include an assessment of internet infrastructure and accessibility within the community.

**Mental Health Resources:**

Mental health is an integral part of overall well-being. The availability of mental health services, including therapists, psychiatrists, and counseling services, is a critical component of the health score.

Researching the availability of mental health professionals within Joppa and the surrounding areas is essential. This includes identifying licensed therapists, psychologists, and psychiatrists. Examining local directories, online resources, and contacting local healthcare providers can help uncover these resources.

Furthermore, assessing the affordability and accessibility of these services is crucial. Are there any mental health clinics or support groups in the area? Does the community have access to mental health resources through local hospitals or community organizations? The presence of these resources can significantly impact the community's ability to address mental health needs.

**Overall Health Score and Conclusion:**

Based on the analysis of these factors, an 'Overall Health Score' can be assigned to Joppa (ZIP code 35087). This score would reflect the community's access to primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of care provided by local practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources.

The score could be presented using a simple grading system (e.g., A, B, C, D, F) or a numerical scale. The score should be accompanied by a summary of the findings, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of the community's healthcare landscape.

Ultimately, this analysis aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare environment in Joppa. The data collected can be used to inform community health initiatives, advocate for improved healthcare access, and guide future healthcare planning efforts.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Joppa, including the geographic distribution of physicians, healthcare facilities, and areas with limited access to care, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can visually represent the data, providing a clear and insightful overview of the healthcare environment.