35222, Birmingham, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 35222, Birmingham, Alabama is 88 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.04 percent of the residents in 35222 has some form of health insurance. 33.02 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.67 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 35222 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,840 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 115 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35222. An estimate of 103 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,198 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 30,019 health care providers accessible to residents in 35222, Birmingham, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 35222 & Primary Care Availability in Birmingham

Analyzing the health landscape within ZIP code 35222 and the broader context of primary care availability in Birmingham, Alabama, necessitates a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and evaluate mental health resource accessibility. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" assessment, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of access to care. In 35222, this ratio can vary significantly depending on the specific location within the zip code. Areas closer to major hospitals and medical centers, like St. Vincent’s, might exhibit a more favorable ratio, reflecting a higher concentration of specialists and primary care physicians. Conversely, pockets further away could face challenges, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and increased difficulty in securing timely medical attention. Birmingham, as a whole, benefits from a robust medical infrastructure, including several large hospitals and medical schools. However, the distribution of physicians across the city is uneven. This disparity can create "healthcare deserts" where access to primary care is limited, especially for vulnerable populations.

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors. Patient reviews, the availability of specialized services, and the adoption of technology are key considerations. Practices that consistently receive high ratings for patient satisfaction, offer comprehensive services, and embrace technological advancements, such as electronic health records and patient portals, are likely to be considered top performers. In 35222, practices affiliated with larger healthcare systems often benefit from greater resources and infrastructure, potentially leading to a higher quality of care. The presence of board-certified physicians and a commitment to continuous quality improvement are also important indicators of excellence.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The ability to access healthcare remotely can significantly improve access to care, especially for individuals with mobility limitations, those living in rural areas, or those seeking routine follow-up appointments. The level of telemedicine adoption varies among practices in 35222 and across Birmingham. Some practices have fully integrated telemedicine into their operations, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online appointment scheduling. Others may be slower to adopt these technologies, potentially limiting access to care for patients who benefit from remote options. The availability of high-speed internet and digital literacy among patients are also important factors that influence the effectiveness of telemedicine initiatives.

Mental health resources are a crucial component of overall health. Access to mental health services in 35222 and Birmingham is a key area for evaluation. The availability of psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors is essential. The presence of community mental health centers, support groups, and crisis intervention services also contributes to a robust mental health infrastructure. Analyzing the number of mental health providers per capita, the wait times for appointments, and the affordability of services is crucial. In some areas, there may be a shortage of mental health professionals, leading to long wait times and limited access to care. The integration of mental health services into primary care settings can improve access and reduce the stigma associated with seeking mental health treatment.

The "Overall Health Score" for 35222 and primary care availability in Birmingham is a complex metric, reflecting the interplay of various factors. Based on the analysis, the score for 35222 is likely to be moderately high, reflecting the presence of good medical infrastructure, but potentially hampered by uneven physician distribution and potential gaps in mental health services. Birmingham, as a whole, likely scores higher due to the presence of major hospitals and medical schools, but the score is brought down by disparities in access to care and the need for increased mental health resources. The score is a dynamic measure, constantly evolving based on changes in the healthcare landscape.

To further explore the healthcare landscape in 35222 and Birmingham, and to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can help you visualize physician density, patient demographics, and the location of mental health facilities, allowing for a more in-depth understanding of the healthcare ecosystem.