35175, Union Grove, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 35175, Union Grove, Alabama is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.46 percent of the residents in 35175 has some form of health insurance. 39.24 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.37 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 35175 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,100 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35175. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,256 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 81 health care providers accessible to residents in 35175, Union Grove, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 35175 and Primary Care Availability in Union Grove

Assessing the overall health landscape within a specific geographic area requires a multifaceted approach, considering not only the number of available physicians but also the quality of care, accessibility, and the presence of supporting resources. This analysis focuses on ZIP code 35175, encompassing the town of Union Grove, Alabama, and aims to provide an "Overall Health Score" based on key factors. The score is not a single numerical value but a comprehensive evaluation of the health ecosystem.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a crucial starting point. 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. While precise, up-to-the-minute physician-to-patient ratio data requires ongoing collection, publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and the Alabama Department of Public Health can offer valuable insights. Examining these sources, coupled with local community feedback, provides an initial understanding of whether residents of Union Grove have adequate access to primary care physicians. A higher ratio is preferable, but the quality of care provided by the available physicians is also paramount.

The quality of care is often reflected in the reputation of local practices. Identifying standout practices involves researching online reviews, patient testimonials, and any accolades or certifications the practices have received. Examining the specialties offered within the ZIP code is also vital. Does the area have a good mix of general practitioners, internal medicine specialists, and other essential primary care providers? Are there specialists available for common health concerns, or do residents need to travel significant distances for specialized care? Furthermore, investigating the practices' affiliations with hospitals or larger healthcare systems can provide insight into their resources and capabilities.

Telemedicine adoption is a significant factor in the modern healthcare environment. The ability to consult with a doctor remotely, through video conferencing or other digital means, can significantly improve access to care, especially for those in rural areas or with mobility limitations. Assessing the level of telemedicine integration within the local practices requires direct inquiry. Do the practices offer virtual appointments? Do they utilize online patient portals for communication and appointment scheduling? The extent of telemedicine adoption directly impacts the overall accessibility of healthcare services within the community.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of overall health. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is essential for addressing a wide range of mental health concerns. Determining the availability of these resources involves researching local mental health clinics, counseling services, and any partnerships the primary care practices have with mental health providers. Are there support groups or community resources available to address specific mental health needs? The presence or absence of these resources significantly impacts the overall health score.

Accessibility to care also includes the availability of transportation options. For residents without personal vehicles, access to public transportation or ride-sharing services becomes critical. Assessing the transportation infrastructure and the availability of transportation assistance programs for medical appointments is essential. The lack of adequate transportation can be a significant barrier to accessing healthcare services, particularly for the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources.

Beyond the immediate availability of physicians and resources, the overall health score also considers the presence of preventative care programs. Are there initiatives promoting healthy lifestyles, such as smoking cessation programs, diabetes management classes, or wellness screenings? The proactive implementation of preventative care measures can significantly improve the health of the community and reduce the burden on the healthcare system. Investigating the presence and accessibility of these programs is a crucial aspect of the overall health assessment.

Another factor to consider is the health literacy of the community. Health literacy refers to the ability of individuals to understand and use health information to make informed decisions about their health. Communities with higher health literacy tend to have better health outcomes. Assessing the health literacy level involves researching the availability of health education programs, community health initiatives, and the clarity and accessibility of health information provided by local healthcare providers.

The overall health score for doctors in ZIP code 35175 and primary care availability in Union Grove is, therefore, a composite of these factors. It is not a static metric but rather a dynamic evaluation that reflects the current state of the healthcare ecosystem. The score will be influenced by the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of care provided by local practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, the accessibility of transportation, the presence of preventative care programs, and the health literacy of the community.

A high overall health score indicates a well-resourced and accessible healthcare system, where residents have easy access to high-quality care, including mental health services, and where preventative measures are actively promoted. A lower score suggests areas for improvement, such as addressing physician shortages, expanding telemedicine options, increasing mental health resources, improving transportation access, and promoting health literacy.

To gain a visual understanding of the health landscape in Union Grove and surrounding areas, including the locations of healthcare providers, the distribution of resources, and the availability of services, consider exploring interactive maps. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful platform for visualizing complex geographical data, allowing for a more comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the healthcare environment.