35746, Fackler, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 35746, Fackler, Alabama is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 35746 has some form of health insurance. 55.44 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 92.98 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 35746 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35746. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 264 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 432 health care providers accessible to residents in 35746, Fackler, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Fackler, Alabama (ZIP Code 35746)

Analyzing the overall health landscape in Fackler, Alabama, specifically within the 35746 ZIP code, requires a multi-faceted approach. It necessitates examining the availability of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. This analysis will paint a picture of the community's health infrastructure and highlight areas of strength and weakness.

The cornerstone of any healthy community is access to primary care. In Fackler, assessing primary care availability involves identifying the number of practicing primary care physicians (PCPs) within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas. This includes family medicine doctors, general practitioners, and internal medicine specialists. Further, it's crucial to consider the geographic distribution of these physicians, as a concentration in one area might leave other parts of the community underserved. A significant factor is the patient-to-physician ratio. This metric, often expressed as the number of patients per PCP, provides a crucial indicator of access. A high ratio suggests potential difficulties in securing timely appointments and adequate care. National averages serve as a benchmark; a ratio significantly higher than the national average indicates a potential shortage of primary care providers.

The presence of "standout practices" can significantly elevate the overall health score. These practices are characterized by a commitment to patient-centered care, utilizing advanced technologies, and demonstrating positive patient outcomes. They often employ a multidisciplinary approach, integrating nurses, medical assistants, and other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive services. The reputation of these practices within the community, as reflected in patient reviews and word-of-mouth referrals, is a key indicator of their quality. Are there practices that prioritize preventative care, offering regular check-ups, screenings, and health education programs? Are they actively involved in community outreach initiatives to promote health awareness?

Telemedicine adoption is another critical element in the modern healthcare landscape. The ability to access healthcare services remotely, through video consultations, phone calls, and secure messaging, can significantly improve access, particularly for residents in rural areas like Fackler. Evaluating telemedicine adoption involves determining the number of practices offering these services, the types of services available (e.g., follow-up appointments, medication management), and the ease of use for patients. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can often provide more flexible appointment scheduling and reduce the need for travel, which is especially beneficial for individuals with mobility issues or limited transportation options.

Mental health resources are an essential component of overall health. Assessing the availability of mental health services in Fackler requires identifying the number of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors serving the community. This also includes evaluating the presence of mental health clinics, support groups, and crisis intervention services. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices is a positive indicator, as it facilitates early detection and treatment of mental health conditions. Are there collaborations between primary care physicians and mental health professionals? Are there resources available to address substance abuse and addiction? The accessibility of mental health services, including insurance coverage and affordability, is paramount.

Beyond the direct healthcare providers, the broader health infrastructure of Fackler plays a role. This includes the presence of local hospitals, urgent care centers, and pharmacies. The proximity of these facilities and their ability to provide a range of services contribute to the overall health score. The availability of emergency medical services, including ambulance services, is also a critical factor, particularly in a rural setting.

To further refine the analysis, data from various sources must be considered. This includes data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the Alabama Department of Public Health, and professional medical organizations. Analyzing patient demographics, including age, socioeconomic status, and pre-existing health conditions, provides valuable context. The prevalence of chronic diseases, such as diabetes and heart disease, can be used to assess the overall health needs of the community.

A comprehensive analysis would also consider the social determinants of health. These factors, such as access to healthy food, safe housing, and educational opportunities, significantly impact overall health outcomes. The presence of community health initiatives, such as farmers' markets, exercise programs, and health education campaigns, can positively influence the health score.

Synthesizing all these factors allows for the creation of an "Overall Health Score" for Fackler, Alabama. This score, which can be represented numerically or qualitatively, provides a snapshot of the community's health status. It can be used to identify areas of strength and weakness and to inform strategies for improving healthcare access and outcomes. The score is not static; it should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape.

The overall health score for Fackler, Alabama, likely reflects a mixed picture. The rural nature of the area may present challenges in terms of primary care availability and access to specialized services. The physician-to-patient ratio could be higher than the national average, indicating a potential shortage of primary care providers. Telemedicine adoption might be increasing, but further evaluation is needed. The accessibility of mental health resources may be limited, highlighting a need for increased investment in these services. The presence of standout practices, offering high-quality care and utilizing advanced technologies, could be a significant strength.

To gain a more precise understanding of the healthcare landscape in Fackler and similar areas, and to visually represent the data, consider exploring the power of geographic information systems (GIS). CartoChrome maps can be used to visualize the distribution of healthcare providers, patient demographics, and other relevant data. This visual representation can help identify areas with limited access to care and inform strategies for improving healthcare delivery.