35128, Pell City, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 35128, Pell City, Alabama is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.63 percent of the residents in 35128 has some form of health insurance. 37.64 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.38 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 35128 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 35128. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,036 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 989 health care providers accessible to residents in 35128, Pell City, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Pell City, AL (ZIP Code 35128)

Analyzing the overall health landscape within Pell City, Alabama, specifically focusing on the 35128 ZIP code, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, notable medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' assessment, highlighting strengths and weaknesses within the community.

The foundation of a healthy community rests on the accessibility of primary care physicians. In Pell City, the availability of primary care is a critical factor in determining the overall health score. Assessing this involves considering the number of practicing primary care physicians, their appointment availability, and the acceptance of various insurance plans. A shortage of primary care providers can lead to delayed diagnoses, preventative care neglect, and increased reliance on emergency room services, which negatively impacts the health score. The geographical distribution of these physicians within the ZIP code also plays a significant role. Are they concentrated in a single area, or are they spread out to serve the entire community effectively?

Physician-to-patient ratios are a vital metric in evaluating healthcare access. A high ratio, indicating a smaller number of physicians serving a larger population, can strain the healthcare system, leading to longer wait times for appointments and potentially less personalized care. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests better access to care. Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio for 35128 requires data from sources like the US Department of Health & Human Services, the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners, and local healthcare organizations. This data is crucial for a precise health score calculation.

Several medical practices within the 35128 ZIP code likely stand out in terms of quality of care, patient satisfaction, and innovative practices. Identifying these "standout practices" involves analyzing patient reviews, examining the adoption of advanced technologies, and assessing their commitment to community health initiatives. Factors like accreditation by reputable organizations (e.g., the Joint Commission), the use of electronic health records (EHRs), and participation in value-based care programs contribute to a practice's overall rating. Practices that prioritize preventative care, offer extended hours, and provide multilingual services can positively influence the community's health score.

Telemedicine has emerged as a crucial tool for expanding healthcare access, especially in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care providers in Pell City is a significant factor in the health score. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel, particularly for those with mobility issues or living in geographically isolated areas. The availability of telehealth services for routine checkups, medication management, and specialist consultations can significantly improve the overall health score. Examining the types of telemedicine services offered, the ease of access, and patient satisfaction with these services is essential.

Mental health resources are a critical component of overall health and well-being. Assessing the availability of mental health services in Pell City is crucial. This includes evaluating the number of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors available within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas. Access to mental health services often involves considering insurance coverage, wait times for appointments, and the availability of specialized programs, such as those for substance abuse or specific mental health conditions. The presence of support groups, community mental health centers, and partnerships between primary care physicians and mental health providers can positively impact the health score.

The overall health score for 35128 is not a static number but a dynamic assessment reflecting the interplay of these factors. It is a holistic view, encompassing not just the availability of medical professionals but also the quality of care, the use of technology, and the support systems available to residents. A high score indicates a community with robust access to primary care, a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, exemplary medical practices, widespread telemedicine adoption, and readily available mental health resources. Conversely, a lower score signals areas needing improvement, such as physician shortages, limited access to specialists, or inadequate mental health services.

To arrive at a definitive health score, a weighted scoring system is necessary. Each factor – primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratio, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources – would be assigned a weight based on its relative importance. For example, primary care availability might receive a higher weight than telemedicine adoption, reflecting its fundamental role in healthcare access. Data from various sources, including public health agencies, insurance providers, and patient surveys, would be used to calculate the scores for each factor. These individual scores are then combined, using the assigned weights, to produce the final overall health score.

Furthermore, it is important to acknowledge that the health score is not just a snapshot of the current situation; it also serves as a benchmark for future improvements. Regular monitoring of these factors and reassessment of the health score are essential to track progress and identify areas that require additional resources or interventions. For instance, if the physician-to-patient ratio is high, efforts could be directed toward attracting more physicians to the area or implementing programs to improve efficiency within existing practices.

In conclusion, the overall health score for Pell City, AL (35128) is a complex assessment that requires a comprehensive analysis of various factors. This analysis has highlighted the key elements that contribute to the community's health and well-being. By understanding these factors and their interrelationships, the community can work towards improving healthcare access, promoting preventative care, and ensuring that residents have the resources they need to live healthy lives.

For a more detailed, visually compelling analysis of the healthcare landscape in Pell City and surrounding areas, explore the power of data visualization with CartoChrome maps. Gain a deeper understanding of physician locations, healthcare access points, and demographic data by utilizing the interactive mapping capabilities.