35235, Birmingham, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 35235, Birmingham, Alabama is 88 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.31 percent of the residents in 35235 has some form of health insurance. 41.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.44 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 35235 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,904 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 113 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35235. An estimate of 96 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,532 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 28,228 health care providers accessible to residents in 35235, Birmingham, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Birmingham, AL (ZIP Code 35235)

Assessing the overall health landscape within ZIP code 35235, located in Birmingham, Alabama, requires a multifaceted approach. We will examine the availability and quality of primary care physicians, considering factors like physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption rates, and the accessibility of mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive ‘Overall Health Score’ assessment, painting a clear picture of the healthcare environment for residents.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of healthcare accessibility. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially, poorer health outcomes. Analyzing data specific to 35235, we must consider the overall population density and demographics. Are there underserved populations within the ZIP code? Are there any areas with limited access to transportation, further exacerbating the challenges of accessing care? Publicly available data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and the Alabama Department of Public Health, along with potentially more granular data from local healthcare networks, will be crucial to determine the exact ratio and its implications.

Identifying standout practices is essential. These are healthcare providers demonstrating excellence in patient care, utilizing innovative technologies, and achieving positive health outcomes. This assessment necessitates looking beyond simple metrics. We must consider patient satisfaction surveys, such as those conducted by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) or through platforms like Healthgrades and Vitals. We must also investigate the practice’s commitment to preventative care, chronic disease management, and patient education. Are there practices known for their focus on specific demographics, such as geriatric care or pediatric services? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate diverse schedules?

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. It expands access to care, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or those living in geographically isolated areas. The extent of telemedicine integration within 35235 is a key factor in our health score analysis. Are primary care physicians offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals? Are these services readily accessible to all residents, regardless of their technological literacy or internet access? Examining the types of telemedicine services offered, the patient volume utilizing these services, and the reimbursement policies of major insurance providers is essential.

Mental health resources are an integral component of overall well-being. The availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors, within the ZIP code is critical. How readily available are these services? Do primary care physicians have established referral networks for mental health support? Are there any community-based mental health clinics or support groups? The presence of mental health services for children and adolescents is particularly important. Furthermore, the integration of mental healthcare into primary care settings, a model that promotes early detection and intervention, should be considered.

To create a robust ‘Overall Health Score’, we will analyze the data collected across these key areas. The score will reflect a weighted average, with each factor contributing to the final assessment. For instance, the physician-to-patient ratio might carry a significant weight, reflecting its direct impact on access to care. The presence of standout practices could contribute positively to the score, while limited telemedicine adoption or insufficient mental health resources would negatively impact the score. The specific weighting of each factor would depend on the relative importance and impact on patient outcomes.

The analysis will also consider demographic factors. The health needs of a diverse population will differ, requiring tailored healthcare solutions. Are there disparities in healthcare access or outcomes based on race, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status? Addressing these disparities is crucial for improving the overall health of the community. The analysis will also assess the prevalence of chronic diseases, such as diabetes and heart disease, within the ZIP code. This will inform the need for preventative care programs and chronic disease management services.

The assessment will also look at the availability of specialized care. While this analysis focuses on primary care, the availability of specialists, such as cardiologists, neurologists, and oncologists, is important. Are there any specialist practices within the ZIP code or in close proximity? The ease of access to specialized care can impact the overall health of the community. This includes the availability of emergency services and the proximity to hospitals.

The ‘Overall Health Score’ will be a dynamic assessment, requiring ongoing monitoring and evaluation. Healthcare landscapes are constantly evolving, with new technologies, treatments, and challenges emerging regularly. Regular updates and revisions to the score will ensure its continued relevance and usefulness. This continuous monitoring will allow for the identification of areas of improvement and the tracking of progress over time.

This comprehensive analysis will offer a clear picture of the healthcare environment in 35235. It will highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the primary care system, providing valuable insights for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers. The resulting ‘Overall Health Score’ will serve as a benchmark for future improvements and a guide for informed decision-making.