35614, Athens, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 35614, Athens, Alabama is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.95 percent of the residents in 35614 has some form of health insurance. 43.17 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.71 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 35614 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,878 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35614. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,287 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,794 health care providers accessible to residents in 35614, Athens, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Athens, AL (35614)

Assessing the overall health landscape in Athens, Alabama (ZIP code 35614) requires a multi-faceted approach, encompassing the availability of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of innovative healthcare practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide an "Overall Health Score" by evaluating these key components.

**Primary Care Availability and Physician-to-Patient Ratio:**

The foundation of a healthy community lies in accessible primary care. In Athens, the availability of primary care physicians is a crucial factor. Data analysis reveals that the physician-to-patient ratio in 35614 presents a mixed picture. While specific, up-to-the-minute numbers fluctuate, the general trend suggests a potential strain on resources. The area, like many rural or semi-rural locations, may experience challenges in attracting and retaining primary care physicians. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and an overall decline in the health of the population.

This ratio is not solely determined by the number of doctors; it's also influenced by factors such as the age and health of the population, the prevalence of chronic diseases, and the availability of specialists. A higher proportion of elderly residents or a higher incidence of conditions like diabetes or heart disease would naturally increase the demand for primary care services, further impacting the physician-to-patient ratio. The geographical distribution of physicians within the ZIP code also plays a significant role. Are the available doctors concentrated in one area, leaving other parts of the community underserved?

**Standout Practices and Innovative Healthcare:**

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality and innovation of healthcare practices are critical. Identifying standout practices in Athens involves assessing their commitment to patient care, their use of technology, and their integration with the broader healthcare ecosystem. Some practices might distinguish themselves through their patient satisfaction scores, their proactive approach to preventative care, or their specialized programs for managing chronic diseases.

The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) is a fundamental aspect of modern healthcare. Practices that have fully embraced EHRs are better equipped to manage patient data, coordinate care, and communicate with other healthcare providers. This facilitates better decision-making and improved patient outcomes. Furthermore, practices that offer extended hours, weekend appointments, or same-day appointments demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and accessibility.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact:**

Telemedicine has emerged as a vital tool for expanding healthcare access, especially in areas with physician shortages or geographical barriers. The extent to which telemedicine has been adopted in Athens is a key indicator of the community's health score. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals are demonstrating a forward-thinking approach to healthcare delivery.

Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for patients with chronic conditions, those who have difficulty traveling, or those who simply prefer the convenience of virtual appointments. However, the successful implementation of telemedicine requires adequate internet access, patient familiarity with technology, and a supportive regulatory environment. The availability of telehealth services in Athens can significantly improve access to care, especially for residents in outlying areas.

**Mental Health Resources and Accessibility:**

Mental health is an integral part of overall health. The availability and accessibility of mental health resources in Athens are crucial factors in assessing the community's health score. This includes the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors, as well as mental health support groups and crisis intervention services.

The stigma associated with mental illness can often prevent individuals from seeking help. Therefore, it's important to assess the community's efforts to reduce stigma, promote mental health awareness, and provide accessible and affordable mental health services. The presence of school-based mental health programs, community mental health centers, and partnerships between healthcare providers and mental health professionals can significantly improve the well-being of the population.

**Overall Health Score and Conclusion:**

Based on the factors discussed, the "Overall Health Score" for Athens, AL (35614) is likely moderate. While the presence of dedicated healthcare professionals and innovative practices is encouraging, the potential strain on resources due to the physician-to-patient ratio and the need for further expansion of mental health resources require attention. The successful implementation of telemedicine, along with community initiatives to improve healthcare access, can significantly improve the health score.

To gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Athens, including the locations of medical facilities, the demographics of the population, and the distribution of healthcare resources, consider exploring interactive maps that provide detailed visualizations of health data.

**Call to Action:**

For a deeper dive into the healthcare landscape of Athens, AL (35614), explore the power of interactive mapping. Utilize CartoChrome maps to visualize the distribution of healthcare providers, patient demographics, and other relevant data. This will provide a more granular understanding of healthcare access and the overall health of the community.