35564, Hackleburg, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 35564, Hackleburg, Alabama is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.15 percent of the residents in 35564 has some form of health insurance. 39.40 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.18 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 35564 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 574 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35564. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 367 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 291 health care providers accessible to residents in 35564, Hackleburg, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Hackleburg, AL (ZIP Code 35564)

Assessing the overall health landscape in Hackleburg, Alabama (ZIP Code 35564), necessitates a multi-faceted approach. It involves examining the availability of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of specialized medical services, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. This analysis will synthesize these factors to provide an informed 'Overall Health Score' for the community.

Hackleburg, a rural community, faces inherent challenges in healthcare access. The geographical isolation and smaller population base often result in a lower density of healthcare providers compared to urban areas. This can translate into longer wait times for appointments, increased travel distances for specialized care, and a potential strain on existing resources. The overall health score will reflect these realities.

One of the most critical indicators is the physician-to-patient ratio. This metric provides a direct measure of the availability of primary care physicians relative to the population. A lower ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, suggests potential difficulties in accessing timely and routine medical care. Researching the exact physician-to-patient ratio for 35564 is crucial. Public health data, such as that available from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, can provide this information.

The presence of standout practices is another key consideration. Identifying healthcare providers known for high-quality care, patient satisfaction, and a comprehensive range of services is essential. This includes assessing whether these practices offer extended hours, weekend appointments, or specialized programs that cater to the unique needs of the community. The reputation of these practices, as reflected in patient reviews and community feedback, plays a significant role in the overall health score.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine offers the potential to bridge geographical barriers and expand access to healthcare services. Examining the extent to which local practices utilize telemedicine platforms for virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and chronic disease management is critical. A higher level of telemedicine adoption can significantly improve the health score by increasing access to care.

Mental health resources are also a vital component of overall health. The availability of psychiatrists, therapists, counselors, and mental health support groups within the community significantly impacts the health score. Assessing the accessibility of these resources, including their affordability and proximity to residents, is essential. This includes determining whether mental health services are integrated into primary care practices, making it easier for patients to access mental healthcare.

To determine the overall health score, a weighted approach is required. The physician-to-patient ratio, due to its direct impact on access to care, should carry a significant weight. The presence of standout practices and the adoption of telemedicine would also have considerable weight, reflecting their contribution to quality and accessibility. The availability of mental health resources, while crucial, would have a slightly lower weight, as it is a more specialized area of care.

The overall health score would then be a composite score, reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape in Hackleburg. A high score would indicate a robust healthcare system with good physician availability, high-quality practices, widespread telemedicine adoption, and accessible mental health resources. A low score would indicate challenges in these areas, potentially leading to poorer health outcomes for the community.

Specific examples of practices and resources in the area need to be investigated. Are there any primary care clinics? What are their hours of operation? Do they accept Medicaid or Medicare? Are there any mental health professionals in the area, or do residents need to travel to another town for such services? These are the types of questions that need answering to provide a truly accurate analysis.

Furthermore, the analysis needs to consider the demographic characteristics of the population. Are there significant populations of elderly residents or children? Do these groups have specific healthcare needs that are being met? The presence of chronic diseases, such as diabetes or heart disease, within the community would also influence the overall health score.

The accessibility of healthcare services is another crucial factor. Does the community have adequate transportation options for those who cannot drive? Are there any community health initiatives or programs that address specific health needs? These factors, too, must be considered.

The overall health score is not a static number; it is a dynamic assessment that should be periodically updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. New practices may open, telemedicine adoption may increase, and new mental health resources may become available. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential to ensure that the community's healthcare needs are being met.

Ultimately, the overall health score is a valuable tool for understanding the healthcare landscape in Hackleburg. It can inform community health initiatives, guide resource allocation, and help residents make informed decisions about their healthcare. It also provides a benchmark for measuring progress over time and identifying areas for improvement.

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Hackleburg and visualize the spatial distribution of healthcare resources, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, clinic locations, and other relevant data, allowing for a more in-depth analysis.