35205, Birmingham, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 35205, Birmingham, Alabama is 85 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.31 percent of the residents in 35205 has some form of health insurance. 22.25 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.93 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 35205 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,069 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 115 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35205. An estimate of 103 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,078 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 30,129 health care providers accessible to residents in 35205, Birmingham, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Birmingham (35205) & Primary Care

Analyzing the overall health landscape within the 35205 ZIP code, encompassing portions of Birmingham, Alabama, necessitates a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, the accessibility of mental health resources, and the presence of standout practices. This holistic view provides a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' assessment for the area.

The foundational element of any health assessment is primary care access. In Birmingham, and specifically within 35205, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical determinant. The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a key indicator. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, suggests potential difficulties in securing timely appointments, leading to delayed diagnoses and potentially poorer health outcomes. While precise, real-time data fluctuates, publicly available data from sources like the Alabama Department of Public Health and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provide valuable insights into the general physician distribution within the area. This data, combined with information from local hospitals and healthcare systems, allows for an estimation of the PCP density.

Beyond the raw number of physicians, the distribution of these professionals is equally important. Are PCPs concentrated in specific areas within 35205, leaving other neighborhoods underserved? This geographic disparity, if present, would negatively impact the overall health score, as access to care becomes uneven. Furthermore, the types of primary care practices available – whether they are solo practices, group practices, or affiliated with larger healthcare systems – also influences accessibility. Group practices, for example, often offer extended hours and a wider range of services, potentially improving access.

Standout practices within the 35205 area contribute significantly to the overall health score. These practices, often characterized by their commitment to patient-centered care, advanced technology adoption, and positive patient outcomes, serve as models for other providers. Identifying these practices involves evaluating factors like patient satisfaction scores, the use of electronic health records (EHRs) for streamlined communication and data management, and the implementation of preventative care programs. The presence of practices that actively engage in population health initiatives, such as managing chronic diseases and promoting wellness, further elevates the health score.

Telemedicine adoption represents a significant factor in modern healthcare delivery. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals expands access to care, particularly for those with mobility limitations, transportation challenges, or busy schedules. The degree to which primary care practices within 35205 have embraced telemedicine, including the types of services offered and the ease of use for patients, directly impacts the overall health score. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their workflows demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and accessibility.

Mental health resources are an integral component of overall well-being, and their availability within 35205 is a crucial consideration. The presence of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors, is essential. Furthermore, the integration of mental health services into primary care settings, such as offering on-site counseling or facilitating referrals to mental health specialists, can significantly improve access to care. The availability of support groups, community mental health centers, and crisis intervention services also contributes to a more robust mental health infrastructure, thereby positively influencing the health score.

Analyzing the specific demographics of 35205 is also vital. Understanding the age distribution, socioeconomic status, and racial composition of the population allows for a more nuanced assessment. Are there specific populations within the ZIP code that face disproportionate health challenges? Addressing these disparities requires targeted interventions and resource allocation. For instance, a higher prevalence of chronic diseases among certain demographic groups would necessitate increased access to preventative care, disease management programs, and culturally sensitive healthcare services.

The overall health score for 35205, therefore, is not a static number but a dynamic assessment reflecting the interplay of various factors. A high score would indicate a well-served population with ample access to primary care, a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, widespread telemedicine adoption, robust mental health resources, and the presence of high-performing practices. Conversely, a lower score would suggest potential challenges in accessing care, disparities in healthcare delivery, and a need for targeted interventions to improve health outcomes.

This analysis, while comprehensive, relies on readily available data and public resources. To gain a truly granular understanding of the health landscape within 35205, it is essential to leverage advanced data visualization tools. These tools can map physician locations, patient demographics, and health outcomes, providing a powerful visual representation of the healthcare environment.

To visualize the health landscape of 35205, and to gain a deeper understanding of the factors influencing the overall health score, explore the interactive maps available from CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps offer a dynamic and insightful view of the healthcare environment, allowing you to analyze physician distribution, identify underserved areas, and gain valuable insights into the health of the community.