35148, Sumiton, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 35148, Sumiton, Alabama is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.63 percent of the residents in 35148 has some form of health insurance. 35.72 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.17 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 35148 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 484 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35148. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 485 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 168 health care providers accessible to residents in 35148, Sumiton, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Sumiton, Alabama (ZIP Code 35148)

Assessing the overall health landscape in Sumiton, Alabama, specifically within the 35148 ZIP code, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers various factors, including physician availability, healthcare infrastructure, and access to essential services, to provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" assessment. The goal is to paint a clear picture of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem, highlighting areas for potential improvement and informing residents about available resources.

One of the most critical indicators of community health is the physician-to-patient ratio. Accurate data on this ratio provides a snapshot of how readily residents can access primary care physicians. In Sumiton, this ratio is a significant determinant of the overall health score. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments, limited access to preventative care, and potentially poorer health outcomes. Data from sources like the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services and the Alabama Department of Public Health must be consulted to ascertain the current physician-to-patient ratio within the 35148 ZIP code. This data is then compared against state and national averages to determine the relative availability of primary care physicians.

The availability of primary care is a cornerstone of a healthy community. It encompasses not just the number of physicians but also the presence of supporting infrastructure, such as clinics, hospitals, and specialized medical facilities. Examining the geographical distribution of these facilities within Sumiton and its surrounding areas is essential. Are primary care practices clustered in certain areas, potentially creating access disparities for residents living further away? Are there adequate specialist referrals available within a reasonable distance? The proximity and accessibility of these facilities directly impact the health score, as convenient access to care promotes early detection and treatment of health issues.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of care is also a crucial factor. Identifying standout practices within Sumiton is essential. This involves evaluating factors such as patient satisfaction scores, the adoption of evidence-based practices, and the availability of advanced diagnostic tools. Are there practices that consistently receive positive feedback from patients? Do they offer a comprehensive range of services, including preventative care, chronic disease management, and wellness programs? Publicly available data, such as patient reviews and practice ratings, can be invaluable in identifying these high-performing practices.

Telemedicine adoption is rapidly changing the healthcare landscape, and its presence or absence significantly affects the health score. Telemedicine, the practice of providing healthcare services remotely via technology, can improve access to care, especially for residents in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Does Sumiton have a robust telemedicine infrastructure? Are local primary care physicians offering virtual consultations and follow-up appointments? The availability of telemedicine can mitigate the impact of a low physician-to-patient ratio and improve access to specialist care.

Mental health resources are another critical component of overall health. Mental health issues are prevalent and often under-addressed. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, within Sumiton is a significant factor in determining the health score. Are there adequate mental health services available locally? Are these services affordable and accessible to all residents, regardless of their socioeconomic status? The presence of support groups, counseling services, and mental health awareness programs also contributes positively to the overall health score.

Assessing the health score also involves looking at the prevalence of chronic diseases, such as diabetes, heart disease, and obesity. Data on these conditions, along with information on health behaviors such as smoking rates and physical activity levels, provides a deeper understanding of the health challenges facing the community. Are there specific health disparities within the community? Are there targeted interventions in place to address these disparities? The presence of public health initiatives aimed at promoting healthy lifestyles and preventing chronic diseases contributes positively to the overall health score.

Furthermore, access to health insurance is a critical determinant of healthcare access. The percentage of insured residents within Sumiton is a key metric. Uninsured individuals often delay or forgo necessary medical care, leading to poorer health outcomes. The availability of affordable health insurance options, including those offered through the Affordable Care Act and Medicaid, is a crucial factor in improving the overall health score.

The health score is not a static measure; it is a dynamic assessment that changes over time. Regular monitoring and evaluation are essential to track progress and identify areas that require improvement. This involves gathering data on key indicators, such as physician-to-patient ratios, access to care, and health outcomes, and analyzing this data to identify trends and patterns. The health score should be updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape and to inform decision-making.

In conclusion, the overall health score for Sumiton, Alabama (ZIP code 35148), is a composite measure reflecting the availability, accessibility, and quality of healthcare services. It is influenced by factors such as the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of supporting infrastructure, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the prevalence of chronic diseases. This analysis highlights the importance of a comprehensive approach to healthcare assessment, recognizing that the health of a community is a complex interplay of various factors.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Sumiton, including the geographic distribution of healthcare facilities and the identification of underserved areas, consider exploring the power of CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a clear and interactive understanding of the healthcare resources available in your community.