35443, Boligee, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 35443, Boligee, Alabama is 8 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 75.21 percent of the residents in 35443 has some form of health insurance. 64.87 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 22.56 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 35443 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 237 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35443. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 234 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 30 health care providers accessible to residents in 35443, Boligee, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Boligee, Alabama (ZIP Code 35443)

Analyzing the overall health landscape within Boligee, Alabama, specifically within the 35443 ZIP code, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers several key factors, including physician availability, healthcare infrastructure, and access to crucial services like mental health support. We will also examine the adoption of telemedicine and identify any standout practices that contribute to the overall health score.

The initial assessment reveals a challenging environment. Boligee, a small rural community, likely faces significant hurdles in healthcare access. The most critical factor is the physician-to-patient ratio. This metric provides a direct measure of the availability of primary care physicians relative to the population size. Rural areas often suffer from a shortage of doctors, leading to longer wait times for appointments and increased travel distances to access care. Without specific data on the population of Boligee and the number of practicing physicians within the 35443 ZIP code, it's difficult to provide a precise ratio. However, based on general trends, it's reasonable to assume that the physician-to-patient ratio is likely unfavorable compared to urban and suburban areas. This scarcity directly impacts the overall health score, contributing to a lower ranking.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of available primary care is another crucial element. Evaluating this requires assessing the practices within the area. This includes examining the types of services offered, the qualifications of the physicians, and the overall patient experience. Are the practices accepting new patients? Do they offer a comprehensive range of services, including preventative care, chronic disease management, and diagnostic testing? The presence of specialists, such as cardiologists or endocrinologists, within the immediate area is also a significant advantage, although less likely in a rural setting. Without a detailed review of individual practices, it's challenging to identify any "standout" facilities. However, the presence of a well-equipped clinic or a practice with a strong focus on patient education and preventative care would undoubtedly improve the overall health score.

Telemedicine, the use of technology to provide healthcare remotely, offers a potential solution to the challenges of rural healthcare access. Its adoption rate within the 35443 ZIP code is a crucial factor. Does the community have access to telemedicine services for primary care consultations, specialist referrals, and mental health support? The availability of reliable internet connectivity is a prerequisite for telemedicine adoption. If internet access is limited or unreliable, the potential benefits of telemedicine are significantly diminished. The extent to which local healthcare providers have embraced telemedicine will impact the health score.

Mental health resources are a critical component of overall health. The availability of mental health services, including therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups, is essential for addressing the mental health needs of the community. Rural areas often face shortages in mental health professionals, further exacerbating the challenges of access. The presence of mental health clinics, counseling services, or partnerships with mental health organizations would significantly improve the health score. The lack of these resources would negatively impact the overall health of the community.

Furthermore, the accessibility of healthcare is influenced by factors beyond physician availability and service offerings. Transportation limitations, financial constraints, and health literacy levels all play a role. Are there public transportation options available for patients to reach medical appointments? Are there programs or resources to assist with the cost of healthcare? Does the community have access to health education and resources to promote preventative care and healthy lifestyles? These factors, while not directly quantifiable in a health score, contribute to the overall health of the community.

The overall health score for Boligee, Alabama (ZIP Code 35443), is likely to be negatively impacted by the challenges of rural healthcare. The physician-to-patient ratio is likely unfavorable, and the availability of specialized services may be limited. The adoption of telemedicine could mitigate some of these challenges, but its effectiveness is dependent on reliable internet access. The availability of mental health resources is another critical factor. The overall health score would be enhanced by increased physician availability, the presence of comprehensive primary care practices, the widespread adoption of telemedicine, and readily available mental health services.

In conclusion, a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Boligee requires detailed data analysis. This includes specific information on the physician-to-patient ratio, the services offered by local practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The overall health score will be directly influenced by these factors.

To gain a more granular understanding of the healthcare landscape in Boligee and other areas, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps provide a visual representation of healthcare resources, physician locations, and other relevant data, allowing for a more informed assessment of healthcare access and availability.