35905, Gadsden, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 35905, Gadsden, Alabama is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.53 percent of the residents in 35905 has some form of health insurance. 33.27 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 77.18 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 35905 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,480 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35905. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,276 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,385 health care providers accessible to residents in 35905, Gadsden, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 35905 and Primary Care Availability in Gadsden

Assessing the overall health landscape within a specific geographic area requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis focuses on ZIP code 35905 in Gadsden, Alabama, examining the availability and quality of primary care services, including physician-to-patient ratios, notable practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. We will synthesize available data to generate an “Overall Health Score,” providing a snapshot of the healthcare environment.

Gadsden, Alabama, and specifically the 35905 ZIP code, presents a unique healthcare profile. The city's population, demographic makeup, and socioeconomic factors influence the accessibility and quality of medical care. Analyzing these elements is crucial to understanding the health needs of the community.

One of the primary indicators of healthcare access is the physician-to-patient ratio. This metric reveals the number of physicians available to serve a specific population. A low ratio can indicate potential shortages, leading to longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced access to care. While precise, up-to-the-minute physician-to-patient ratios for a specific ZIP code are often difficult to obtain due to data privacy and frequent fluctuations. However, publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and the Alabama Department of Public Health can provide estimates for Etowah County, where Gadsden is located. These estimates, coupled with local anecdotal evidence, are crucial for understanding the overall healthcare picture.

Standout practices within the 35905 ZIP code and the broader Gadsden area play a significant role in shaping the health landscape. These practices often serve as models for quality care and innovation. Identifying these practices requires examining factors such as patient reviews, accreditations, and the range of services offered. Practices offering comprehensive primary care, including preventative services, chronic disease management, and specialized care, contribute significantly to the overall health score. Furthermore, practices that demonstrate a commitment to community outreach and patient education are particularly valuable.

The adoption of telemedicine is another critical factor influencing healthcare accessibility. Telemedicine, the use of technology to provide healthcare remotely, can improve access to care, especially for individuals in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption involves evaluating the availability of virtual appointments, the use of remote monitoring devices, and the integration of telehealth services into existing care pathways. Practices that embrace telemedicine can potentially improve patient outcomes and reduce healthcare costs.

Mental health resources are an integral part of overall health. The availability of mental health services, including therapy, counseling, and psychiatric care, is crucial for addressing the growing prevalence of mental health conditions. Evaluating mental health resources involves assessing the number of mental health providers, the availability of specialized programs, and the integration of mental health services into primary care settings. The presence of support groups, crisis intervention services, and community-based mental health initiatives also contributes to the overall health score.

The overall health score for doctors in ZIP code 35905 and primary care availability in Gadsden is a complex calculation. It involves weighting various factors based on their relative importance. The physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources all contribute to the final score. A higher score indicates a more robust and accessible healthcare system, while a lower score suggests potential areas for improvement.

To improve the health score, several strategies can be implemented. Increasing the number of primary care physicians, particularly in underserved areas, is crucial. Supporting the growth of standout practices and encouraging the adoption of telemedicine can also improve access to care. Furthermore, strengthening mental health resources, including increasing the number of mental health providers and expanding access to mental health services, is essential. Community-based initiatives that promote health education and preventative care can also contribute to a healthier population.

The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. Regular assessments and updates are necessary to track progress and identify areas that require attention. Ongoing monitoring of physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption rates, and mental health resource availability is essential. Furthermore, incorporating patient feedback and community input can provide valuable insights into the healthcare experience.

Data collection and analysis are critical components of this process. Gathering information from various sources, including government agencies, healthcare providers, and community organizations, is essential. Utilizing data visualization tools, such as maps, can help to identify patterns and trends in healthcare access and utilization. This data-driven approach can inform decision-making and guide efforts to improve the overall health score.

The specific challenges and opportunities within the 35905 ZIP code and the broader Gadsden area should be addressed. Identifying the unique needs of the population and tailoring healthcare services accordingly is essential. Collaborating with community stakeholders, including healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government, can help to create a more effective and responsive healthcare system.

Overall, the health score for doctors in ZIP code 35905 and primary care availability in Gadsden reflects the complex interplay of various factors. While precise scoring requires access to detailed, up-to-the-minute data, the analysis highlights the importance of physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. Addressing the challenges and capitalizing on the opportunities within this area is crucial for improving the health and well-being of the community.

For a deeper dive into the healthcare landscape of Gadsden and the 35905 ZIP code, including interactive maps and detailed data visualizations, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. These maps offer an unparalleled view of healthcare resources, allowing you to visualize physician locations, access to care, and other vital health metrics.