35570, Hamilton, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 35570, Hamilton, Alabama is 8 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.01 percent of the residents in 35570 has some form of health insurance. 39.77 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.38 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 35570 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,061 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35570. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,347 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 362 health care providers accessible to residents in 35570, Hamilton, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Hamilton, Alabama (ZIP Code 35570)

This analysis delves into the overall health landscape of Hamilton, Alabama, specifically focusing on the availability and quality of primary care within the 35570 ZIP code. We will examine key indicators such as physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. This comprehensive evaluation aims to provide an 'Overall Health Score' assessment, offering insights into the community's access to and quality of healthcare services.

The foundation of any health assessment lies in understanding the physician-to-patient ratio. In Hamilton, 35570, this metric paints a picture of potential accessibility challenges. A lower ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and ultimately, a strain on the healthcare system. Researching the exact ratio for this specific ZIP code requires accessing publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) or the Alabama Department of Public Health. This data will be crucial in determining the initial score and identifying areas of concern.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of available primary care is vital. The presence of standout practices significantly impacts the overall health score. Evaluating practices involves looking at factors like patient satisfaction scores, the range of services offered (e.g., chronic disease management, preventative screenings), and the accreditation status of the facilities. Are there practices in Hamilton that consistently receive positive reviews? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments to improve accessibility? Identifying these high-performing practices will positively influence the overall score, as they represent beacons of quality within the community.

The digital age has revolutionized healthcare, and telemedicine plays an increasingly important role in expanding access to care, particularly in rural areas like Hamilton. The adoption rate of telemedicine services by primary care providers in 35570 is a crucial factor. Does the community have access to virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals? Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to connect with physicians regardless of their location. A high adoption rate of telemedicine would significantly boost the overall health score, indicating a commitment to modernizing healthcare delivery.

Mental health resources are an integral part of overall well-being, and their availability is critical for a community's health. The analysis must assess the presence of mental health providers, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed counselors, within the 35570 ZIP code. Are there accessible mental health services, such as individual therapy, group therapy, and psychiatric medication management? The availability of these resources, along with the existence of support groups and community outreach programs, will have a significant impact on the overall health score. Low availability would negatively impact the score.

The overall health score is not just a numerical value; it's a reflection of the community's ability to access and utilize quality healthcare services. It's a composite score based on physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of primary care practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. This score provides a snapshot of the healthcare landscape, highlighting strengths and weaknesses.

Based on the factors discussed, the overall health score for Hamilton, Alabama (ZIP code 35570) would be determined. If physician-to-patient ratios are high, indicating limited access, the score would be negatively affected. The presence of high-quality primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources would positively influence the score. The final score would be a weighted average of these factors, providing a comprehensive assessment of the community's healthcare environment.

For example, if the physician-to-patient ratio is unfavorable, but there are several high-quality practices and telemedicine is widely adopted, the score might be moderate. Conversely, if the physician-to-patient ratio is favorable, but mental health resources are scarce, the score could be lower than expected. The exact score would be determined by a detailed analysis of all the factors.

Ultimately, the goal of this analysis is to provide a clear understanding of the healthcare landscape in Hamilton, Alabama. This information can be used by residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers to identify areas for improvement and to develop strategies to enhance the overall health of the community. This includes attracting more physicians to the area, expanding telemedicine services, and increasing access to mental health resources.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in Hamilton, Alabama, and explore the data discussed in this analysis, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps.