35446, Buhl, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 35446, Buhl, Alabama is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.85 percent of the residents in 35446 has some form of health insurance. 45.25 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.15 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 35446 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 561 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35446. An estimate of 11 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 206 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,353 health care providers accessible to residents in 35446, Buhl, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Buhl, Alabama (ZIP Code 35446)

Assessing the overall health landscape within Buhl, Alabama (ZIP Code 35446) requires a multifaceted approach, examining both the availability of healthcare providers and the resources dedicated to patient well-being. This analysis will delve into the physician-to-patient ratios, highlight prominent medical practices, evaluate the adoption of telemedicine, and assess the availability of mental health services. The goal is to provide a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' analysis, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of healthcare access. In Buhl, the precise ratio requires a detailed examination of practicing physicians within the ZIP code and the area's population. Data from the U.S. Census Bureau and the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners are essential for this calculation. A low physician-to-patient ratio, meaning a smaller number of doctors per capita, can indicate potential challenges in accessing timely medical care, leading to longer wait times for appointments and increased pressure on existing healthcare providers. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests better access and potentially improved health outcomes. This ratio, however, is just a starting point.

Identifying standout medical practices within Buhl is crucial. This involves researching the types of services offered, the qualifications of the medical staff, and patient reviews. Factors like the availability of specialized care, the use of advanced medical technologies, and the overall patient experience contribute to a practice's reputation. Practices with a strong focus on preventive care, chronic disease management, and patient education are likely to receive higher ratings. Furthermore, the presence of affiliations with larger healthcare systems can indicate access to a broader range of resources and expertise.

The adoption of telemedicine is transforming healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to access medical consultations and services remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving access to specialists. Evaluating the extent of telemedicine adoption in Buhl involves assessing the availability of virtual appointments, the types of services offered via telemedicine, and the technology infrastructure available to support these services. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are likely to demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and access, especially for those in remote locations.

Mental health resources are an integral component of overall well-being. Assessing the availability of mental health services in Buhl requires investigating the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors. This includes determining the number of mental health professionals practicing within the ZIP code, the types of services offered (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), and the accessibility of these services (e.g., insurance acceptance, appointment availability). The presence of community mental health centers and partnerships with local organizations can further enhance the availability of mental health support.

Beyond the immediate availability of healthcare providers, other factors influence the 'Overall Health Score'. These include the prevalence of chronic diseases within the population, the availability of health insurance, the socioeconomic characteristics of the community, and the presence of public health initiatives. Analyzing these factors provides a more holistic understanding of the health landscape and allows for a more accurate assessment of the community's health needs.

The 'Overall Health Score' for Buhl (ZIP Code 35446) is not a static number. It's a dynamic assessment influenced by various factors. The score can improve with increased physician availability, greater telemedicine adoption, and enhanced mental health resources. Conversely, the score can decline due to a shrinking healthcare workforce, limited access to specialized care, or a lack of mental health support. Regular monitoring and analysis are essential to track progress and identify areas that require improvement.

To enhance the accuracy of this analysis, data from multiple sources must be combined. This includes information from healthcare providers, government agencies, insurance companies, and community organizations. Patient surveys and focus groups can also provide valuable insights into the patient experience and identify unmet healthcare needs.

In conclusion, the 'Overall Health Score' for Buhl, Alabama (ZIP Code 35446) is a reflection of the community's access to healthcare, the quality of care provided, and the availability of resources to support patient well-being. By considering physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, a comprehensive assessment can be made. This analysis provides a snapshot of the current health landscape, highlighting strengths and weaknesses and identifying areas for improvement.

For a visual representation of this data and to explore the healthcare landscape of Buhl and surrounding areas, we encourage you to utilize the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. CartoChrome allows you to visualize physician locations, demographic data, and other relevant information, providing a powerful tool for understanding and improving healthcare access.