35150, Sylacauga, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 35150, Sylacauga, Alabama is 15 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.33 percent of the residents in 35150 has some form of health insurance. 50.67 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.95 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 35150 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,632 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35150. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,750 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 185 health care providers accessible to residents in 35150, Sylacauga, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Sylacauga, Alabama (ZIP Code 35150)

Sylacauga, Alabama, nestled in Talladega County, presents a unique profile when assessing its overall health landscape. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources within the 35150 ZIP code. We will also highlight standout practices and provide an overall health score, offering a comprehensive view of the healthcare ecosystem in this community.

The foundation of a healthy community rests on the availability of primary care physicians. Primary care serves as the gateway to the healthcare system, providing preventative care, managing chronic conditions, and coordinating specialist referrals. In Sylacauga, the availability of primary care is a critical factor in determining the overall health score. Assessing the number of practicing primary care physicians within the 35150 ZIP code, and the surrounding areas, provides a baseline understanding.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial metric. It indicates the number of patients each physician is responsible for. A high ratio can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially, less comprehensive care. Conversely, a lower ratio generally suggests better access to care. Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio for 35150 requires analyzing population data and cross-referencing it with the number of practicing primary care physicians. This ratio will significantly influence the overall health score.

Beyond the numbers, the quality of care is paramount. Identifying standout practices is essential. These practices often excel in patient satisfaction, offer a wide range of services, and demonstrate a commitment to community health. Researching patient reviews, assessing the scope of services offered (e.g., chronic disease management, women's health, pediatric care), and evaluating the practice's integration with the broader healthcare network are vital. These factors contribute significantly to the overall health score.

Telemedicine has emerged as a transformative force in healthcare, especially in rural areas like Sylacauga. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, providing access to specialists and primary care physicians remotely. The adoption rate of telemedicine by primary care practices in 35150 is a key indicator of the community's ability to leverage technology to improve healthcare access. Investigating the types of telemedicine services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), the ease of access for patients, and the integration of telemedicine into the existing care model are all important considerations.

Mental health is an integral component of overall health. The availability of mental health resources within 35150 is a critical factor in determining the overall health score. This includes the presence of psychiatrists, therapists, counselors, and mental health support groups. Assessing the accessibility of these resources, including wait times for appointments, insurance acceptance, and the availability of crisis intervention services, is crucial. Furthermore, the integration of mental health services into primary care practices is a positive indicator of a holistic approach to patient care.

The overall health score for 35150 is a composite metric that considers all the factors discussed above. It's not a simple calculation but a nuanced assessment. The score reflects the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare ecosystem in Sylacauga. A high score would indicate a community with ample access to primary care, a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, high-quality practices, widespread telemedicine adoption, and robust mental health resources. A lower score would suggest areas needing improvement, such as physician shortages, limited access to specialists, or inadequate mental health support.

Specific data points are needed to accurately calculate the score. For example, knowing the exact number of primary care physicians, the population of the ZIP code, the number of telemedicine consultations, and the availability of mental health professionals are all essential. Publicly available data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the Alabama Department of Public Health, and professional medical associations can be used to gather this information.

The analysis should also consider the socio-economic factors of the community. Income levels, educational attainment, and access to transportation can all influence health outcomes. These factors, while not directly reflected in the health score, provide valuable context for understanding the challenges and opportunities within the Sylacauga healthcare landscape.

The overall health score is not a static measure. It should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare environment. New practices opening, telemedicine adoption rates increasing, and mental health resources becoming more available can all positively impact the score. Conversely, physician retirements, hospital closures, or a lack of investment in healthcare infrastructure can negatively affect the score.

To truly understand the healthcare landscape in Sylacauga and visualize the data discussed, consider exploring interactive maps. CartoChrome maps offer powerful tools to visualize healthcare data, allowing you to see the distribution of physicians, the location of healthcare facilities, and the availability of resources in a dynamic and engaging way. These maps can help identify areas with limited access to care and inform strategies for improving healthcare delivery in the community.