35574, Kennedy, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 35574, Kennedy, Alabama is 9 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 99.01 percent of the residents in 35574 has some form of health insurance. 36.78 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 82.28 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 35574 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 312 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35574. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 283 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 119 health care providers accessible to residents in 35574, Kennedy, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Kennedy, Alabama (ZIP Code 35574)

Analyzing the overall health landscape in Kennedy, Alabama (ZIP code 35574), requires a multi-faceted approach. We must consider the availability of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' assessment, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem.

The foundation of a healthy community lies in accessible primary care. In Kennedy, assessing primary care availability requires examining the number of practicing physicians within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas. This involves identifying the types of practices available, such as family medicine, internal medicine, and general practitioners. Furthermore, the analysis considers the appointment wait times and the acceptance of new patients. Long wait times and limited patient acceptance can significantly impede access to care, negatively impacting the overall health score.

Physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial metric. It provides a quantifiable measure of the availability of healthcare professionals relative to the population. A lower ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, suggests potential challenges in accessing timely and comprehensive care. This ratio needs to be compared to state and national averages to gauge the relative health of the local system. A significantly higher ratio than the averages would be a red flag, indicating potential strain on the existing healthcare infrastructure.

Identifying standout practices is essential for understanding the quality of care available. This involves researching practices known for their patient satisfaction, positive outcomes, and specialized services. This could include clinics that offer extended hours, weekend appointments, or multilingual services. Reviews from patients, ratings from health insurance providers, and recognition from medical organizations are all valuable indicators of quality. The presence of such practices can significantly boost the overall health score.

Telemedicine has emerged as a vital tool for expanding access to healthcare, especially in rural areas. Assessing the adoption of telemedicine in Kennedy involves examining whether local practices offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals. The availability of these technologies can overcome geographical barriers and improve patient convenience. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are likely to score higher on the overall health assessment.

Mental health is an integral component of overall well-being. The analysis must assess the availability of mental health resources in Kennedy. This includes identifying psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors. The presence of support groups, mental health clinics, and partnerships with local organizations are also important. Limited access to mental health services can severely impact the community's health, so the availability of these resources is a critical factor in the overall health score.

Beyond the direct availability of medical professionals and services, other factors contribute to the overall health score. These include the presence of local hospitals, urgent care facilities, and pharmacies. The availability of these resources ensures a more comprehensive and accessible healthcare system. The quality of these facilities, as measured by accreditation, patient reviews, and the range of services offered, is also a factor.

Further, the analysis should consider the health demographics of the population. Factors such as age distribution, prevalence of chronic diseases (diabetes, heart disease, etc.), and socioeconomic indicators (poverty rates, insurance coverage) can significantly influence the health needs of the community. Understanding these demographics allows for a more nuanced assessment of the healthcare system's ability to meet the specific needs of the population.

The overall health score for Kennedy, Alabama, will be a composite measure, incorporating all these factors. It will reflect the accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of the local healthcare system. The score will also consider the community's specific health needs and the resources available to address them. It is a dynamic measure, subject to change as healthcare practices evolve and community needs shift.

The assessment will aim to identify areas where the healthcare system excels and areas that require improvement. It will highlight any gaps in service, such as a shortage of specialists or a lack of mental health resources. This information can be used to inform policy decisions, guide resource allocation, and support efforts to improve the health and well-being of the Kennedy community.

This comprehensive analysis, utilizing data from various sources, will provide a realistic and actionable assessment of the healthcare landscape in Kennedy. It will highlight strengths, identify weaknesses, and offer insights into how the community can improve its overall health. This process is not simply about a number; it is about understanding the intricate web of factors that contribute to a healthy community.

The final 'Overall Health Score' will be a valuable tool for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers. It will provide a clear picture of the current state of healthcare in Kennedy and serve as a benchmark for future progress. It is a snapshot of the healthcare ecosystem, offering insights into its strengths, weaknesses, and potential for growth.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Kennedy and visualize the data discussed, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome. Their platform allows you to visualize the distribution of healthcare providers, access to services, and other relevant health data within the community.