35645, Killen, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 35645, Killen, Alabama is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.34 percent of the residents in 35645 has some form of health insurance. 31.17 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.71 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 35645 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,085 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35645. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,320 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,014 health care providers accessible to residents in 35645, Killen, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Killen, Alabama (ZIP Code 35645)

Assessing the overall health landscape in Killen, Alabama, specifically focusing on the availability and quality of primary care, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis delves into key metrics, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. Ultimately, this evaluation aims to provide a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' for the community.

The cornerstone of any healthy community is access to primary care physicians. In Killen, the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial indicator. While precise, real-time data fluctuates, publicly available sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and state medical boards offer valuable insights. Analyzing these resources reveals the number of active primary care physicians practicing within the 35645 ZIP code and the estimated population they serve. A favorable ratio, indicating a sufficient number of doctors for the population, is vital. A low ratio, conversely, can signify potential challenges, including longer wait times for appointments and increased patient load per physician, potentially impacting the quality of care.

Beyond raw numbers, the distribution of physicians within the community is equally important. Are primary care practices clustered in one area, or are they strategically located to serve the entire population, including those in more rural or underserved areas within the ZIP code? This geographical analysis is essential for understanding access.

Identifying standout practices within Killen is also key. These practices often serve as benchmarks for quality and patient satisfaction. Factors to consider include: the practice's accreditation status (e.g., National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) recognition), patient reviews and testimonials (gathered from platforms like Healthgrades, Vitals, and Google Reviews), the range of services offered (e.g., preventative care, chronic disease management, specialized programs), and the practice's commitment to patient-centered care. Practices that prioritize patient communication, offer extended hours, and embrace innovative technologies often score higher in terms of overall health impact.

The adoption of telemedicine is rapidly transforming healthcare delivery, and its presence in Killen is a significant factor in the overall health score. Telemedicine offers numerous advantages, including increased access to care, especially for patients in remote areas or those with mobility limitations. It also allows for greater flexibility in scheduling appointments and can facilitate remote monitoring of chronic conditions. Assessing telemedicine adoption involves investigating whether local practices offer virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring, and secure patient portals for communication and access to medical records. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are generally considered to be more adaptable and patient-focused, contributing positively to the overall health score.

Mental health resources are an integral component of overall well-being. Evaluating the availability of mental health services in Killen involves assessing the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed therapists, and counselors. The availability of these professionals, as well as the types of services offered (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), directly impacts the community's mental health. Furthermore, it is crucial to determine the accessibility of these resources, including insurance acceptance, appointment availability, and the presence of any sliding-scale payment options for those with limited financial resources. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices is also a positive indicator, as it facilitates early detection and treatment of mental health conditions.

Evaluating the overall health score for Killen (35645) requires a synthesis of all these factors. It is not simply a matter of counting doctors; it is a complex assessment of accessibility, quality, and the integration of various healthcare services. A high score would indicate a community with a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, a diverse range of high-quality primary care practices, widespread adoption of telemedicine, and readily available mental health resources. Conversely, a lower score would suggest potential challenges in access, quality, or resource availability.

The overall health score should be seen as a dynamic measure, subject to change as the healthcare landscape evolves. Regular monitoring and analysis are essential to identify areas for improvement and ensure that the community's healthcare needs are being met effectively. This continuous evaluation allows for proactive adjustments and improvements, ultimately contributing to a healthier and more vibrant community.

To gain a visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Killen and surrounding areas, we recommend exploring the power of spatial data. CartoChrome maps provide detailed visualizations of healthcare resources, physician locations, and population demographics, allowing for a deeper dive into the factors discussed in this analysis.