35594, Winfield, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 35594, Winfield, Alabama is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.91 percent of the residents in 35594 has some form of health insurance. 48.57 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.99 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 35594 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,687 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35594. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,489 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 452 health care providers accessible to residents in 35594, Winfield, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Winfield, Alabama (ZIP Code 35594)

Winfield, Alabama, nestled in the heart of Marion County, presents a unique profile when evaluating its overall health landscape. Assessing the health of a community requires a multifaceted approach, considering not only the presence of medical professionals but also the accessibility of care, the adoption of modern healthcare practices, and the availability of resources addressing both physical and mental well-being. This analysis aims to provide an 'Overall Health Score' for Winfield, specifically focusing on the availability of primary care physicians and associated factors within the 35594 ZIP code.

The foundation of any healthy community rests on the availability of primary care physicians. In Winfield, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. While precise figures fluctuate, the general trend in rural areas like Winfield often reveals a scarcity of primary care doctors compared to urban centers. This scarcity directly impacts access to care. Longer wait times for appointments, increased travel distances, and potential for delayed diagnoses are all consequences of a limited physician pool. This initial assessment suggests a moderate challenge in accessing primary care services within the 35594 ZIP code.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality and scope of primary care practices are paramount. Determining standout practices requires evaluating several factors. These include the range of services offered (e.g., preventative care, chronic disease management, women's health), the level of patient satisfaction (often gauged through online reviews and patient surveys), and the integration of technology in patient care. Practices that embrace electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals generally provide more efficient and coordinated care. The presence of specialized services, such as on-site laboratory testing or physical therapy, further enhances a practice's value to the community. Identifying and highlighting these exemplary practices is crucial for understanding the overall health score.

Telemedicine adoption plays an increasingly important role in bridging the healthcare gap, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to specialists who might not be readily available locally. The degree of telemedicine adoption within Winfield's primary care practices is a significant factor in the overall health score. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring capabilities, demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and improved access to care. The extent of this adoption needs to be carefully evaluated.

Mental health resources are an essential component of overall health. The availability of mental health services, including psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors, is critical for addressing the emotional and psychological well-being of the community. Evaluating the mental health landscape in Winfield involves assessing the number of mental health professionals, the types of services offered (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), and the accessibility of these services. Factors such as insurance acceptance, wait times for appointments, and the presence of support groups also contribute to the overall assessment. A community with limited mental health resources will inevitably face challenges in addressing the needs of its residents.

The integration of these elements – physician-to-patient ratio, quality of primary care practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources – allows for a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' assessment. The score will be influenced by the strengths and weaknesses of each component. A high physician-to-patient ratio, coupled with a lack of telemedicine and limited mental health services, would negatively impact the overall score. Conversely, a lower ratio mitigated by strong telemedicine adoption and robust mental health support would yield a more positive score.

The specific practices within the 35594 ZIP code will be scrutinized. This will involve identifying the primary care providers and evaluating their services. This includes the scope of services offered, the use of technology, and patient feedback. Understanding the specific practices and their offerings is critical to providing a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape.

The assessment also considers the broader healthcare ecosystem. This includes the presence of hospitals, urgent care facilities, and other healthcare providers in the surrounding areas. While this analysis focuses on the 35594 ZIP code, the availability of healthcare resources in the broader region impacts the overall health score. Residents may travel to nearby towns or cities for specialized care, and the accessibility of these resources must be considered.

Finally, the analysis will consider the demographic characteristics of the Winfield population. Factors such as age, socioeconomic status, and prevalence of chronic diseases can influence healthcare needs and access. Understanding these demographic factors provides a more complete picture of the community's health challenges and opportunities.

In conclusion, the 'Overall Health Score' for Winfield, Alabama (ZIP Code 35594) is a complex assessment that considers multiple factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources all play crucial roles. A thorough evaluation of these elements, coupled with an understanding of the local demographics and the broader healthcare ecosystem, will provide a comprehensive picture of the community's health landscape.

For a visual and interactive exploration of the healthcare landscape in Winfield and surrounding areas, including physician locations, healthcare facility data, and demographic information, we invite you to explore the CartoChrome maps. These maps offer a powerful tool for visualizing and understanding the complex factors that contribute to the overall health of a community.