35184, West Blocton, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 35184, West Blocton, Alabama is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.06 percent of the residents in 35184 has some form of health insurance. 31.31 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.00 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 35184 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,289 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35184. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 752 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 278 health care providers accessible to residents in 35184, West Blocton, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: West Blocton, AL (ZIP Code 35184)

Assessing the overall health landscape within West Blocton, Alabama (ZIP Code 35184) requires a multifaceted approach, examining the availability and quality of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of telehealth services, and the accessibility of mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide an ‘Overall Health Score’ reflecting the current state of healthcare in this community.

West Blocton, a small town in Bibb County, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. The rural nature of the area often translates to reduced access to specialized medical services compared to more urban settings. The ‘Overall Health Score’ will consider these factors, providing a realistic evaluation.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Primary Care Availability:**

A critical indicator of healthcare access is the physician-to-patient ratio. In West Blocton, the precise ratio is difficult to ascertain without detailed data from the state medical board and insurance providers. However, given the town's size and surrounding area demographics, it's reasonable to assume a potentially higher-than-average patient load per primary care physician. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially limited access to preventative care.

Primary care availability is a key component of the ‘Overall Health Score’. The presence of family medicine practices, internal medicine specialists, and general practitioners directly impacts the community's ability to receive routine checkups, manage chronic conditions, and address acute illnesses. Assessing the number of primary care physicians actively practicing in the ZIP code, their office hours, and their acceptance of various insurance plans is essential.

**Standout Practices:**

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors. These include the quality of care provided, patient satisfaction levels, and the integration of technology. Practices that prioritize patient communication, offer extended hours, and have a strong record of positive patient outcomes would score higher. Examining online reviews, patient testimonials, and the practice's commitment to community outreach provides valuable insights.

Furthermore, the presence of any practices affiliated with larger healthcare systems or hospitals can indicate access to a broader range of services and specialists. The ability to coordinate care across different medical disciplines is a significant advantage for patients.

**Telemedicine Adoption:**

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. It offers the potential to overcome geographical barriers and provide convenient access to healthcare services. Practices that have embraced telehealth platforms, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, would receive a higher score.

The availability of telemedicine can significantly improve the ‘Overall Health Score’ by expanding access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in remote areas. Examining the types of telehealth services offered, the ease of use of the platforms, and the integration with existing medical records systems is crucial.

**Mental Health Resources:**

Mental health is an integral part of overall health. The availability of mental health resources, including psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors, is a significant factor in the ‘Overall Health Score’. Assessing the number of mental health professionals practicing in the area, their specialties, and their acceptance of insurance is essential.

Furthermore, the presence of mental health support groups, crisis intervention services, and community outreach programs contributes to a stronger mental health infrastructure. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices is also a positive indicator, facilitating early detection and treatment of mental health conditions.

**Overall Health Score Conclusion:**

Based on the factors discussed, the ‘Overall Health Score’ for West Blocton (ZIP Code 35184) is likely to be moderate. While the community likely has access to some primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio may be a concern. The availability of specialized medical services might be limited, and the adoption of telemedicine may vary among practices. The availability of mental health resources requires further investigation, but the rural nature of the area may present challenges.

To improve the ‘Overall Health Score’, efforts should focus on attracting more primary care physicians, expanding telemedicine services, and increasing access to mental health resources. Community initiatives to promote healthy lifestyles and preventative care are also crucial.

**Call to Action:**

For a comprehensive and visually engaging understanding of the healthcare landscape in West Blocton, and to explore the geographic distribution of healthcare providers, services, and demographic data, we recommend utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive maps that can help you visualize the data discussed in this analysis, identify areas with limited access to care, and gain valuable insights into the health of the community. Explore the power of CartoChrome maps today to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in West Blocton and beyond.