35091, Kimberly, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 35091, Kimberly, Alabama is 84 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.78 percent of the residents in 35091 has some form of health insurance. 19.67 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 87.44 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 35091 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 922 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35091. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 353 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,552 health care providers accessible to residents in 35091, Kimberly, Alabama.

**Overall Health Score Analysis: Kimberly, Alabama (ZIP Code 35091)**

Kimberly, Alabama, nestled within the 35091 ZIP code, presents a unique microcosm for evaluating healthcare access and quality. An "Overall Health Score" for this area requires a multifaceted assessment, considering not just the raw number of physicians but also the quality of care, the availability of specialized services, and the integration of modern healthcare technologies. This analysis will delve into key factors, providing a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape in Kimberly.

One of the most fundamental metrics is the physician-to-patient ratio. Determining the exact ratio for 35091 is complex, as the service areas of physicians often extend beyond strict ZIP code boundaries. However, data from the Alabama Department of Public Health and the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) can provide estimates. A low physician-to-patient ratio can indicate potential challenges in accessing timely care, leading to longer wait times for appointments and potentially impacting preventative care. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility. Analyzing these figures alongside population demographics, including age distribution and the prevalence of chronic diseases, is crucial.

Primary care availability is a cornerstone of a healthy community. Assessing the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) – family doctors, internal medicine specialists, and pediatricians – within Kimberly and the surrounding areas is paramount. Furthermore, it's essential to evaluate the types of practices available. Are there solo practitioners, group practices, or larger hospital-affiliated clinics? Group practices often offer advantages, such as broader coverage, shared resources, and the potential for integrated care. The presence of urgent care facilities and walk-in clinics also contributes to the overall accessibility of primary care.

Identifying standout practices involves examining several criteria. Patient reviews, available through platforms like Healthgrades and Vitals, offer valuable insights into patient experiences. Factors like appointment scheduling efficiency, communication from the medical staff, and the overall patient-physician relationship are critical. Furthermore, practices that embrace preventative care, such as offering regular check-ups, screenings, and vaccinations, should be recognized. Accreditation by organizations like the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) can also indicate a commitment to quality.

The adoption of telemedicine is a significant indicator of a modern and accessible healthcare system. Telemedicine, encompassing virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, can significantly improve access to care, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas. Evaluating the extent to which physicians in 35091 utilize telemedicine platforms is important. Do they offer virtual appointments? Do they have secure patient portals for communication and access to medical records? The availability of these technologies can directly impact the Overall Health Score.

Mental health resources are a critical, often overlooked, aspect of overall health. Assessing the availability of mental health professionals – psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors – within and near Kimberly is essential. Are there local mental health clinics or partnerships with larger healthcare systems? Do primary care physicians offer integrated behavioral health services? The presence of support groups, addiction treatment programs, and crisis intervention services also contributes to a comprehensive mental healthcare system. A community with robust mental health resources will naturally have a higher Overall Health Score.

Beyond these core factors, other elements contribute to a comprehensive assessment. The presence of specialized medical services, such as cardiology, dermatology, and gastroenterology, is relevant. The availability of pharmacies and access to prescription medications are also important. The quality of local hospitals, including their ratings and the types of services they offer, further impacts the Overall Health Score. The degree of health insurance coverage within the community, as well as the availability of affordable care options for uninsured individuals, is also a factor.

In conclusion, determining the Overall Health Score for Kimberly, Alabama (35091) requires a thorough analysis of physician-to-patient ratios, primary care availability, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. Each of these elements plays a vital role in shaping the community’s health outcomes. A holistic approach, considering both quantitative data and qualitative assessments, is necessary to gain a true understanding of the healthcare landscape in this area. The score will fluctuate based on the weighting given to each category.

For a more detailed and visually informative understanding of the healthcare landscape in Kimberly, Alabama, and to explore the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a powerful tool for visualizing physician locations, hospital access, and other relevant data, allowing for a deeper understanding of healthcare accessibility and the factors that contribute to the Overall Health Score.