35773, Toney, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 35773, Toney, Alabama is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.61 percent of the residents in 35773 has some form of health insurance. 36.44 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.56 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 35773 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,711 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35773. An estimate of 6 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,350 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 12,155 health care providers accessible to residents in 35773, Toney, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Toney, Alabama (ZIP Code 35773)

Evaluating the overall health landscape within the Toney, Alabama (ZIP Code 35773) area necessitates a comprehensive analysis, going beyond simple metrics. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a holistic ‘Overall Health Score’ assessment, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system.

The foundation of a healthy community rests upon readily accessible primary care. In Toney, and the surrounding areas encompassed by ZIP code 35773, the density of primary care physicians is a crucial factor. Data from various sources, including the U.S. Census Bureau, the Alabama Department of Public Health, and healthcare provider directories, must be analyzed to determine the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially poorer health outcomes. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests a more robust primary care infrastructure. The precise ratio for Toney, while needing to be calculated from the most current data, will significantly influence the overall health score.

Beyond mere numbers, the quality and reputation of local medical practices are paramount. Identifying "standout practices" requires examining factors like patient reviews, accreditations, and the range of services offered. Practices that consistently receive positive feedback, are accredited by reputable organizations, and provide comprehensive care, including preventative screenings, chronic disease management, and specialized services, contribute positively to the health score. Conversely, practices with negative reviews, limited service offerings, or a history of compliance issues would detract from the overall assessment.

The modern healthcare landscape is increasingly shaped by technology, particularly telemedicine. The adoption of telemedicine by local physicians in Toney is a critical indicator of the community's health score. Telemedicine offers numerous benefits, including increased access to care, especially for patients in rural areas or with mobility limitations. It can also facilitate remote monitoring of chronic conditions and provide convenient access to specialist consultations. Practices actively embracing telemedicine, offering virtual appointments, and utilizing remote patient monitoring technologies would score higher in the overall assessment.

Mental health is an integral component of overall well-being, and the availability of mental health resources in Toney is a key consideration. This includes access to psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counseling services. The presence of community mental health centers, support groups, and partnerships with local schools and organizations are all positive indicators. A community with limited mental health resources would receive a lower score, reflecting the potential for unmet mental health needs and associated negative health consequences. The proximity of these resources, the acceptance of insurance, and the wait times for appointments are also important considerations.

Several factors can impact the overall health score. The age distribution of the population within ZIP code 35773 influences the demand for healthcare services. An aging population, for example, may require more chronic disease management and geriatric care. Socioeconomic factors, such as income levels and insurance coverage rates, also play a significant role. Communities with higher rates of poverty and limited insurance coverage often face greater healthcare access challenges. The availability of public transportation, which facilitates access to medical appointments, is another consideration.

The overall health score for Toney, Alabama (ZIP Code 35773) is a composite measure, reflecting the interplay of all these factors. It is not a static number but rather a dynamic assessment that can change over time as the healthcare landscape evolves. The score would be derived from the weighted average of the various components discussed. The physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of local practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources would each contribute to the overall score, with each factor assigned a weight based on its perceived importance.

To provide a more accurate and detailed assessment, a comprehensive data gathering process is essential. This involves collecting data from multiple sources, including government agencies, healthcare providers, and patient surveys. The data must be analyzed carefully to identify trends, patterns, and disparities. It is crucial to protect patient privacy and adhere to all relevant regulations.

The assessment will reveal strengths and weaknesses in the local healthcare system. The strengths might include a high physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of a well-regarded practice, or a strong adoption of telemedicine. The weaknesses might include a shortage of mental health resources, limited access to specialist care, or a high rate of uninsured individuals. This information can be used to inform policy decisions, prioritize resource allocation, and improve the health of the community.

The overall health score provides a valuable snapshot of the health of the community. It can be used by healthcare providers, policymakers, and residents to understand the local healthcare landscape and identify areas for improvement. The score can also be used to track progress over time and assess the impact of healthcare interventions.

The final score, and the factors that influence it, can be visualized and analyzed using advanced mapping tools. The ability to overlay healthcare data with demographic information, geographic features, and other relevant factors allows for a deeper understanding of the health of the community. This geospatial analysis can reveal patterns and disparities that might not be apparent through traditional methods.

For a more comprehensive understanding of the health landscape in Toney, Alabama, and to visualize the data discussed in this analysis, consider using the interactive mapping tools available from CartoChrome maps. Explore the spatial distribution of healthcare resources, identify areas with limited access to care, and gain a deeper understanding of the factors that influence the health of the community.