35654, Russellville, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 35654, Russellville, Alabama is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.86 percent of the residents in 35654 has some form of health insurance. 39.36 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.82 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 35654 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,847 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35654. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,602 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,231 health care providers accessible to residents in 35654, Russellville, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Russellville, Alabama (ZIP Code 35654)

Analyzing the overall health landscape in Russellville, Alabama, specifically within the 35654 ZIP code, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers several critical factors, including physician availability, the quality of primary care services, the integration of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. This will culminate in an overall health score assessment, providing a snapshot of the current state and highlighting areas for potential improvement.

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

A fundamental aspect of assessing health is the availability of physicians, particularly primary care providers. The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a crucial indicator. A higher ratio, meaning fewer patients per doctor, generally suggests better access to care. Researching the 35654 ZIP code reveals a potential challenge in this area. While precise figures fluctuate, the area may face a shortage of primary care physicians compared to the national average. This means residents might experience longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying preventative care and impacting overall health outcomes.

The availability of primary care is also contingent on the types of practices present in the area. Are there a significant number of family medicine clinics, internal medicine specialists, and general practitioners? The presence of these various types of primary care providers is essential for providing comprehensive care. The presence of specialists, such as cardiologists or endocrinologists, is also critical. Analyzing the concentration of these specialists within the area is crucial for determining the overall health score.

**Standout Practices and Quality of Care:**

Identifying standout practices within the 35654 ZIP code requires a deeper dive into quality metrics. This includes evaluating patient satisfaction scores, the adoption of electronic health records (EHRs), and the practices' adherence to evidence-based guidelines. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, utilize technology effectively, and prioritize preventative measures are likely to be considered high-quality providers.

The quality of care is also dependent on the accreditation of the facilities. Are the hospitals and clinics accredited by recognized organizations like the Joint Commission? Accreditation signifies that the facilities meet specific standards of quality and safety. The presence of a well-equipped hospital and specialized clinics contributes significantly to the overall health score.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact:**

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant factor in healthcare access, especially in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine services by practices within the 35654 ZIP code can positively impact the overall health score. Telemedicine offers several advantages, including the ability to provide virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and access to specialists who may not be readily available in the area.

The degree to which practices have integrated telemedicine into their operations is a key indicator. Do they offer virtual appointments for routine check-ups? Do they use remote monitoring devices for patients with chronic conditions? The more comprehensive the telemedicine offerings, the higher the potential impact on the overall health score.

**Mental Health Resources and Accessibility:**

Mental health is an integral component of overall health, and the availability of mental health resources is crucial. Assessing the 35654 ZIP code involves examining the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors. The ratio of mental health professionals to the population is a key indicator.

Furthermore, the accessibility of these resources is critical. Are mental health services covered by local insurance plans? Are there any barriers to access, such as long wait times or a lack of transportation? The presence of community mental health centers, support groups, and crisis intervention services also contributes to the overall health score.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

Based on the factors discussed, the overall health score for the 35654 ZIP code may be moderate. While the area likely has dedicated healthcare professionals and facilities, challenges in physician-to-patient ratios and access to mental health services may impact the score. The degree of telemedicine adoption and the quality of care provided by local practices are also key determinants.

To improve the overall health score, the community could focus on several areas. Efforts to attract and retain primary care physicians would be beneficial. Expanding mental health services and improving their accessibility is also crucial. Encouraging the adoption of telemedicine can enhance access to care, particularly for those in remote areas. Promoting community health initiatives and preventative care programs would also contribute to improved health outcomes.

**Conclusion:**

Assessing the health landscape in Russellville, Alabama, requires a comprehensive approach. The factors discussed, including physician availability, primary care quality, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, are all essential components. While the 35654 ZIP code may face some challenges, the community's commitment to improving healthcare access and quality can positively impact the overall health score.

For a detailed, interactive map of healthcare resources in Russellville, Alabama, including physician locations, clinic locations, and other relevant data, explore the CartoChrome maps.