35124, Pelham, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 35124, Pelham, Alabama is 92 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.11 percent of the residents in 35124 has some form of health insurance. 24.53 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 83.13 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 35124 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,724 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35124. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,295 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,454 health care providers accessible to residents in 35124, Pelham, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Pelham, Alabama (ZIP Code 35124)

Pelham, Alabama (ZIP Code 35124) presents a complex picture when assessing its overall health landscape. An 'Overall Health Score' analysis, considering factors like physician availability, access to care, and the integration of modern healthcare practices, reveals both strengths and areas needing improvement. This analysis focuses on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) within the specified ZIP code and the resources available to its residents.

The initial assessment must consider the physician-to-patient ratio. This critical metric provides a baseline understanding of access to care. The national average for PCPs varies, but a ratio of approximately 1:1300 is often cited as a benchmark. Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio for Pelham requires detailed data analysis, including the precise number of practicing PCPs within the ZIP code and the total population. Publicly available data from the Alabama Department of Public Health, the U.S. Census Bureau, and professional medical organizations would be essential for this calculation. A higher-than-average ratio would indicate a potential shortage of PCPs, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and increased strain on existing healthcare providers. Conversely, a favorable ratio suggests better access to primary care services.

Beyond raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs within Pelham matters. Are physicians concentrated in specific areas, potentially leaving other parts of the ZIP code underserved? Factors like transportation access, socioeconomic status, and the presence of specialized clinics all influence the accessibility of primary care. The presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or other safety-net providers can significantly impact the health score, especially for vulnerable populations. These centers often offer comprehensive services, including primary care, dental care, and behavioral health services, on a sliding scale.

Identifying standout practices within Pelham is crucial. These practices often demonstrate excellence in patient care, innovative service delivery, and a commitment to community health. Researching patient reviews, analyzing quality metrics (where available), and assessing the range of services offered are key to identifying these high-performing clinics. Are these practices accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate diverse schedules? Are they actively involved in community outreach programs? These factors contribute significantly to the overall health score.

The adoption of telemedicine is another critical factor. Telemedicine, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and digital health tools, can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues, those living in rural areas, or those with chronic conditions. Assessing the level of telemedicine adoption among PCPs in Pelham involves investigating whether practices offer virtual appointments, use remote monitoring devices, or provide online patient portals for communication and appointment scheduling. Practices embracing telemedicine can enhance the overall health score by expanding access and improving patient convenience.

Mental health resources are an essential component of overall health. The availability of mental health services, including therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups, is crucial for addressing the growing mental health needs of the population. This assessment requires investigating the number of mental health providers in the area, the types of services offered (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), and the accessibility of these services (e.g., insurance acceptance, wait times). The integration of mental health services within primary care practices, where PCPs can screen for mental health conditions and provide initial treatment or referrals, is a significant positive factor. The presence of crisis intervention services and suicide prevention resources also contributes to a higher health score.

Furthermore, the integration of preventative care services impacts the health score. Are PCPs actively promoting preventive screenings, vaccinations, and lifestyle interventions? Do practices offer educational programs on topics like nutrition, exercise, and chronic disease management? A proactive approach to preventative care can significantly improve the long-term health outcomes of the population.

Another factor to consider is the presence of specialty care. While this analysis focuses on primary care, the availability of specialists, such as cardiologists, endocrinologists, and gastroenterologists, within a reasonable distance, impacts overall health. The ability to access timely and appropriate specialty care is crucial for managing complex health conditions.

Finally, the overall health score is also influenced by the community's health literacy. Are residents aware of available healthcare resources? Do they understand how to navigate the healthcare system? The presence of community health initiatives, educational programs, and resources in multiple languages can enhance health literacy and improve the overall health score.

In conclusion, assessing the 'Overall Health Score' for Pelham, Alabama (ZIP Code 35124) requires a comprehensive analysis of various factors. While this analysis provides a framework for evaluating the health landscape, a more precise assessment requires detailed data collection and analysis. The availability of PCPs, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, the presence of standout practices, and the community's health literacy all contribute to the overall health score. By considering these factors, we can gain a better understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in Pelham and identify areas where improvements are needed.

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