35147, Sterrett, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 35147, Sterrett, Alabama is 93 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.85 percent of the residents in 35147 has some form of health insurance. 28.58 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.16 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 35147 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,565 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35147. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 721 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,964 health care providers accessible to residents in 35147, Sterrett, Alabama.

**Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 35147 and Primary Care Availability in Sterrett, Alabama**

Assessing the overall health landscape within a specific geographic area demands a multifaceted approach. This analysis delves into the availability and quality of healthcare services for residents of ZIP Code 35147, encompassing the Sterrett community in Alabama. We will examine key indicators, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, telemedicine adoption rates, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' assessment, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and areas ripe for improvement.

The foundation of a healthy community lies in the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Sterrett, the physician-to-patient ratio serves as a crucial metric. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of doctors relative to the population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests a more robust healthcare infrastructure. Precise data on the current ratio in 35147 is essential for a reliable score. Publicly available data from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, or state-level health departments, are sources for this information.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of available primary care is paramount. Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code is vital. This involves considering factors like patient satisfaction scores, the range of services offered (e.g., chronic disease management, women's health), and the adoption of modern technologies. Does the practice utilize electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient patient management? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate diverse schedules? These factors influence the overall accessibility and quality of care. Researching online reviews, consulting with local community organizations, and examining the practice's website for information on services offered are essential steps in this evaluation.

Telemedicine has emerged as a transformative force in healthcare, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption rate within 35147 is a key indicator of healthcare accessibility. Does the area have practices offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, or online prescription refills? Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, improve access to specialists, and enhance the convenience of healthcare delivery. A high adoption rate contributes positively to the overall health score, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or those residing in remote areas. The presence of telemedicine services should be evaluated for their availability, the types of services offered, and their integration with existing healthcare systems.

Mental health resources are a critical component of overall well-being. Assessing the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, within 35147 is essential. Are there local mental health clinics or counseling services? Are these services accessible to all residents, regardless of their insurance status or financial situation? The presence of community support groups, mental health awareness programs, and collaborations between primary care physicians and mental health specialists further enhance the score. A lack of readily available mental health resources can negatively impact the community's overall health and well-being.

Evaluating the health score necessitates considering the demographics of the Sterrett community. The age distribution, socioeconomic status, and prevalence of chronic diseases within the population influence healthcare needs. A community with a high percentage of elderly residents may require more geriatric care services, while a community with a high rate of diabetes may benefit from specialized diabetes management programs. Understanding the unique health challenges faced by the residents of 35147 is essential for a tailored assessment.

Furthermore, the presence of specialized healthcare services, such as cardiology, oncology, or pediatric care, is a significant factor. While primary care forms the foundation, access to specialists is crucial for managing complex health conditions. The proximity of hospitals, specialty clinics, and urgent care facilities influences the overall health score. The availability of emergency medical services and their response times are also critical components of the healthcare infrastructure.

The overall health score is not a static number. It is a dynamic assessment that should be regularly updated. Factors like changes in physician availability, the introduction of new healthcare technologies, and shifts in community demographics can impact the score over time. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential for identifying areas for improvement and ensuring that residents of 35147 have access to high-quality healthcare.

The score should also consider the insurance landscape. The percentage of the population with health insurance, the types of insurance plans available, and the affordability of healthcare services are all relevant. Communities with high rates of uninsured individuals often face significant barriers to accessing care, leading to poorer health outcomes.

The role of community health initiatives cannot be overlooked. The presence of local health education programs, public health campaigns, and partnerships between healthcare providers and community organizations can significantly improve the overall health of the population. These initiatives can promote healthy lifestyles, prevent disease, and address health disparities.

In conclusion, assessing the 'Overall Health Score' for doctors in ZIP Code 35147 and primary care availability in Sterrett is a complex undertaking. It requires a thorough evaluation of physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of primary care practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the unique demographics of the community. By considering these factors, we can gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape and identify areas for improvement.

To visualize the healthcare landscape of Sterrett and surrounding areas, and to gain deeper insights into the distribution of medical resources, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps. Their platform allows for detailed geospatial analysis, helping to identify areas of high and low healthcare access.