35808, Huntsville, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 35808, Huntsville, Alabama is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 71.76 percent of the residents in 35808 has some form of health insurance. 20.20 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.73 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 35808 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 294 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35808. An estimate of 6 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 70 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 11,757 health care providers accessible to residents in 35808, Huntsville, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Huntsville, Alabama (ZIP Code 35808)

Analyzing the overall health landscape within Huntsville, Alabama's 35808 ZIP code requires a multi-faceted approach, evaluating not just the presence of medical professionals but also the accessibility, quality, and integration of care. This analysis will provide an "Overall Health Score" assessment, focusing on primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources within this specific geographic area.

The foundation of a healthy community rests on robust primary care access. In 35808, assessing primary care availability involves examining the number of general practitioners, family medicine physicians, and internal medicine specialists actively practicing within the ZIP code. Data from the U.S. Census Bureau and the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners, when combined, allow for an initial estimate of the physician-to-patient ratio. This ratio, however, is only a starting point. It needs to be contextualized by considering factors such as the age distribution of the population (older populations generally require more frequent care), the prevalence of chronic diseases (diabetes, hypertension, etc.), and the socioeconomic demographics of the area, which can influence health-seeking behaviors.

A high physician-to-patient ratio alone doesn't guarantee excellent healthcare. The quality of care provided by individual practices is paramount. Identifying "standout practices" requires evaluating patient reviews, physician credentials, and the services offered. Practices that consistently receive positive patient feedback, demonstrate a commitment to preventative care, and offer a comprehensive range of services (e.g., on-site labs, chronic disease management programs) contribute significantly to the overall health score. Furthermore, practices that actively participate in community health initiatives, such as free health screenings or educational programs, deserve special recognition.

Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, has become increasingly important, especially in areas with potential access challenges. The adoption rate of telemedicine within 35808 is a crucial factor. Practices that offer telehealth consultations, virtual check-ups, and remote monitoring capabilities can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility issues, transportation difficulties, or those residing in underserved areas. The ease of access to these services, including the availability of user-friendly platforms and insurance coverage for telemedicine appointments, directly impacts the overall health score.

Mental health is an often-overlooked but critical component of overall well-being. The availability of mental health resources within 35808 is a key indicator of community health. This includes the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors. Assessing the accessibility of these resources requires investigating wait times for appointments, the acceptance of various insurance plans, and the availability of support groups and mental health programs. The integration of mental healthcare with primary care, where primary care physicians can screen for mental health issues and make appropriate referrals, is a significant advantage.

The socioeconomic factors of 35808 also play a significant role. Poverty, lack of access to healthy food options, and limited access to transportation can negatively impact health outcomes. Analyzing these factors in conjunction with the availability of healthcare resources provides a more complete picture of the health landscape. Community initiatives aimed at addressing social determinants of health, such as food banks, affordable housing programs, and transportation assistance, can positively influence the overall health score.

The overall health score for 35808 is not a static number; it’s a dynamic assessment. Regular monitoring and analysis are essential to track changes and identify areas for improvement. This includes tracking changes in physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption rates, and the availability of mental health resources. The data should be used to advocate for policy changes, improve resource allocation, and promote community health initiatives.

To summarize, the overall health score for 35808 depends on a balanced evaluation of various factors. A high score is achieved through a combination of adequate physician availability, high-quality practices, robust telemedicine adoption, accessible mental health resources, and community-based initiatives that address social determinants of health. The ongoing evaluation and adaptation of these factors are critical for maintaining and improving the health and well-being of the community.

For a more comprehensive, visually driven understanding of the healthcare landscape in 35808 and beyond, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provides detailed visualizations of healthcare resources, allowing you to explore physician locations, practice characteristics, and other relevant data points in an interactive and user-friendly format.