35254, Birmingham, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 35254, Birmingham, Alabama is 86 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.56 percent of the residents in 35254 has some form of health insurance. 0.93 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 96.63 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 35254 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 356 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 124 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35254. An estimate of 110 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 0 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 29,933 health care providers accessible to residents in 35254, Birmingham, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Birmingham, AL (ZIP Code 35254) & Primary Care Availability

Evaluating the overall health landscape within ZIP code 35254, a segment of Birmingham, Alabama, and assessing the broader primary care availability across the city, requires a multi-faceted approach. We'll delve into key metrics, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, ultimately synthesizing these factors into an overall health score assessment.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a fundamental indicator of access to care. A lower ratio, reflecting more physicians per capita, generally signifies better access. In 35254, and across Birmingham as a whole, this ratio can fluctuate significantly depending on the specific location and the specialization of the physicians. Areas with a higher concentration of medical facilities and specialists, like those near major hospitals, often boast more favorable ratios. Conversely, more rural or underserved pockets within the city may struggle with physician shortages, creating a barrier to timely and accessible primary care. Data from sources like the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners, the U.S. Census Bureau, and the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) can be used to generate an accurate ratio.

Standout practices within 35254 and Birmingham play a crucial role in elevating the overall health score. These practices often differentiate themselves through innovative approaches to patient care, comprehensive services, and a commitment to community well-being. Practices that consistently receive high patient satisfaction ratings, demonstrate strong outcomes data, and are recognized for their contributions to healthcare quality and accessibility deserve special recognition. These may include practices that have earned recognition from organizations like the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) or those that are actively involved in community outreach programs. These practices set a high bar for others to emulate.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor in the health score assessment. Telemedicine, the use of technology to provide healthcare remotely, has the potential to dramatically improve access, particularly for patients in underserved areas or those with mobility limitations. The degree to which practices within 35254 and Birmingham have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, directly impacts the health score. Practices that have seamlessly integrated telemedicine into their workflow, providing a convenient and accessible option for patients, contribute positively to the overall health landscape. Conversely, practices that lag in telemedicine adoption may be limiting access to care.

Mental health resources are increasingly recognized as an integral component of overall health. The availability and accessibility of mental health services within 35254 and Birmingham significantly impact the health score. This includes the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors, as well as access to mental health clinics, support groups, and crisis intervention services. The integration of mental health services within primary care settings is also a positive factor, as it promotes a holistic approach to patient well-being. Assessing the availability of these resources, along with data on mental health prevalence and treatment rates, is crucial for a comprehensive health score analysis.

Synthesizing these factors – physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources – allows for a more nuanced evaluation of the overall health score. The weighting of each factor may vary depending on the specific goals of the analysis. For example, a focus on access might prioritize physician-to-patient ratios, while a focus on quality might emphasize the presence of standout practices and the integration of mental health services.

In 35254, the overall health score can be influenced by the proximity to major medical centers, such as St. Vincent's East. The availability of specialists and the presence of affiliated primary care practices can have a positive impact. However, the presence of a higher-than-average elderly population in some areas may create additional demand for healthcare services, potentially straining resources.

Across Birmingham, the overall health score is a composite of various factors. The city's diverse population and socioeconomic disparities create a complex healthcare landscape. Some areas enjoy better access to care than others. The presence of major hospitals, such as UAB Hospital, and the associated medical school contribute to a strong healthcare infrastructure. However, challenges remain, including addressing health disparities, improving access to care in underserved areas, and increasing mental health resources.

The health score analysis also needs to account for the social determinants of health, the non-medical factors that influence health outcomes. These include socioeconomic status, education, access to healthy food, housing stability, and environmental factors. Addressing these social determinants is essential for improving the overall health of the population.

The assessment of primary care availability within Birmingham requires a broader scope. It involves analyzing the distribution of primary care physicians across the city, identifying areas with physician shortages, and evaluating the effectiveness of initiatives aimed at improving access to care. This could involve evaluating the presence of Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs), which provide care to underserved populations, and assessing the impact of telehealth programs on access.

In conclusion, the overall health score for 35254 and primary care availability across Birmingham is a dynamic assessment that requires continuous monitoring and evaluation. By analyzing physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and evaluating the availability of mental health resources, a comprehensive picture of the health landscape can be created. The integration of social determinants of health into the analysis further enhances its accuracy and relevance.

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