35611, Athens, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 35611, Athens, Alabama is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.14 percent of the residents in 35611 has some form of health insurance. 37.19 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.09 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 35611 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,481 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35611. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,743 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,226 health care providers accessible to residents in 35611, Athens, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Athens, Alabama (ZIP Code 35611)

This analysis provides an overview of the overall health landscape for residents within ZIP Code 35611 (Athens, Alabama), focusing on primary care physician availability and related health resources. We will assess key factors influencing health outcomes, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem. This evaluation aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare environment, informing residents and stakeholders alike.

The cornerstone of any healthy community is access to primary care physicians. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. While precise figures fluctuate, it's crucial to understand the general availability of primary care doctors in Athens. A low ratio, meaning a high number of patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially compromised preventative care. Conversely, a favorable ratio allows for more personalized care and proactive health management. Researching the current ratio for 35611, and comparing it to state and national averages, is the first step in determining the overall health score.

Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of primary care physicians across the community is essential. Are physicians concentrated in specific areas, potentially leaving underserved populations with limited access? Are there enough primary care providers in rural areas surrounding Athens? Geographic accessibility, including transportation options, plays a significant role in health outcomes. Examining the distribution of practices and their proximity to residential areas and transportation hubs is crucial.

Standout practices in Athens contribute significantly to the overall health score. Identifying practices known for their patient-centered care, innovative approaches, and positive patient outcomes is key. Are there practices employing advanced technologies for patient communication and management? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate diverse schedules? Are they actively involved in community outreach programs? Evaluating these factors helps identify practices that are leading the way in providing high-quality care.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, especially in recent years. The availability of telehealth services, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, can significantly improve access to care, particularly for those with mobility issues, transportation challenges, or limited time. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption among primary care practices in Athens, including the types of services offered and the ease of use for patients, is essential. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can potentially improve their score.

Mental health resources are a vital component of overall health. The availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is crucial. Assessing the number of mental health providers in Athens, their specialties, and their accessibility (e.g., accepting new patients, insurance coverage) is necessary. Furthermore, the integration of mental health services into primary care settings can improve the detection and treatment of mental health conditions. Analyzing the prevalence of integrated care models is also important.

Beyond the availability of providers, the quality of care is paramount. This involves assessing factors such as patient satisfaction, the use of evidence-based practices, and the management of chronic conditions. Reviewing patient reviews, examining practice accreditations, and evaluating the implementation of quality improvement initiatives can provide insights into the quality of care provided by primary care physicians in Athens.

Community health initiatives and partnerships play a role in improving the overall health score. Are there collaborations between healthcare providers, local hospitals, and community organizations to address specific health needs, such as diabetes prevention or substance abuse treatment? Are there programs focused on health education and promotion? The presence of these initiatives reflects a commitment to improving the health of the community.

Insurance coverage and affordability are significant determinants of access to care. Understanding the prevalence of health insurance coverage in Athens, including the types of plans available and the affordability of healthcare services, is crucial. Analyzing the acceptance of various insurance plans by primary care practices and the availability of financial assistance programs can provide insights into the accessibility of care for all residents.

The demographics of the population in 35611 should be considered. The age distribution, socioeconomic status, and racial/ethnic composition of the community can influence health needs and access to care. Tailoring healthcare services to meet the specific needs of the population is essential for improving health outcomes.

The overall health score for Athens, Alabama (35611) is a complex metric influenced by numerous factors. While a precise numerical score requires comprehensive data analysis, this evaluation highlights the key areas to consider. The availability of primary care physicians, the adoption of telemedicine, the accessibility of mental health resources, the quality of care, and the community health initiatives all contribute to the overall health of the community.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Athens, including the location of primary care practices, the distribution of health resources, and the demographics of the population, explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. These maps offer a visual representation of the data, allowing for a more comprehensive analysis of the healthcare environment.