35131, Ragland, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 35131, Ragland, Alabama is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.22 percent of the residents in 35131 has some form of health insurance. 47.24 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.52 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 35131 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 838 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35131. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 592 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 611 health care providers accessible to residents in 35131, Ragland, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 35131 & Primary Care Availability in Ragland

Analyzing the overall health landscape for doctors within ZIP code 35131, and the primary care availability specifically within the town of Ragland, Alabama, requires a multifaceted approach. It necessitates examining the physician-to-patient ratios, identifying exemplary practices, assessing the adoption of telemedicine, and evaluating the availability of mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare ecosystem in this specific geographic area.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of access to care. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of physicians relative to the population, can lead to longer wait times, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially poorer health outcomes. Conversely, a high ratio suggests better access and potentially more personalized care. While precise data on the physician-to-patient ratio for ZIP code 35131 and specifically Ragland requires detailed local surveys, general demographic data can offer preliminary insights. The population size of 35131 and Ragland, combined with the number of primary care physicians, internists, and specialists practicing within the area, will provide a baseline understanding. Further investigation should include the number of physicians accepting new patients and the average appointment wait times.

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors. These include the quality of care provided, patient satisfaction levels, the range of services offered, and the utilization of technology. Practices with a strong track record of positive patient outcomes, as reflected in patient reviews and satisfaction surveys, are indicative of high-quality care. The availability of a comprehensive suite of services, including preventative care, chronic disease management, and specialized treatments, further enhances a practice's value. Furthermore, practices that embrace technological advancements, such as electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals, often demonstrate a commitment to efficiency and improved patient communication.

Telemedicine adoption is an increasingly important aspect of healthcare accessibility, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to access medical consultations and follow-up appointments remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving access to specialists. Assessing the level of telemedicine adoption within 35131 and Ragland involves determining the number of practices offering telemedicine services, the types of services available via telemedicine (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), and the patient utilization rates. Practices actively promoting and utilizing telemedicine are likely to be more accessible and patient-centric.

Mental health resources are a crucial component of overall health and well-being. The availability of mental health services within 35131 and Ragland is vital. This includes the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors. Assessing the accessibility of these resources requires evaluating the number of mental health professionals practicing in the area, the types of services offered (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), the acceptance of insurance, and the wait times for appointments. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health providers is also essential for integrated care.

To create a more complete picture, the analysis should consider the local hospital system. The presence of a well-equipped hospital with a range of specialists and services is critical for providing comprehensive care. The hospital's capacity, its accreditation status, and its performance metrics (e.g., patient safety, readmission rates) are important indicators of the overall healthcare infrastructure. The hospital's proximity to Ragland is particularly relevant, as it directly impacts access to emergency care and specialized treatments.

The availability of community health centers and other safety-net providers should also be considered. These organizations often serve vulnerable populations and provide essential services, including primary care, dental care, and behavioral health services. Their presence can significantly improve healthcare access for underserved communities.

Furthermore, public health initiatives and programs operating within 35131 and Ragland play a role in overall health. These include programs focused on disease prevention, health education, and chronic disease management. The effectiveness of these programs can be assessed by reviewing their reach, their impact on health outcomes, and their collaboration with local healthcare providers.

The socioeconomic factors within 35131 and Ragland also need consideration. Poverty, unemployment, and lack of transportation can significantly impact health outcomes. Understanding the prevalence of these factors and the availability of social support services is essential for a comprehensive health analysis.

In conclusion, evaluating the overall health score for doctors in ZIP code 35131 and primary care availability in Ragland is a complex undertaking. It requires a multi-faceted assessment of physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the influence of socioeconomic factors. A thorough investigation, incorporating data from various sources, is essential to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in this specific area.

For a more visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in 35131 and Ragland, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides detailed, interactive maps that can visualize healthcare data, including physician locations, hospital locations, and demographic information. This can help you gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare access and resources available in this area.