35960, Centre, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 35960, Centre, Alabama is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.75 percent of the residents in 35960 has some form of health insurance. 45.11 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.18 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 35960 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,321 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35960. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,419 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 216 health care providers accessible to residents in 35960, Centre, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Centre, Alabama (ZIP Code 35960)

Centre, Alabama, nestled in Cherokee County, presents a unique microcosm for assessing overall health. Evaluating the health landscape requires a multifaceted approach, considering not only the presence of medical professionals but also the accessibility of care, the integration of technology, and the availability of crucial mental health resources. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment for the area, focusing on doctors in ZIP Code 35960 and the availability of primary care in Centre.

The foundation of any health assessment lies in the physician-to-patient ratio. In Centre, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of doctors relative to the population, can significantly impede access to care. While precise figures fluctuate, Cherokee County, and by extension Centre, often faces challenges in attracting and retaining medical professionals. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments, increased pressure on existing physicians, and potential difficulties in securing specialized care. The impact extends beyond primary care, affecting access to specialists and the overall health outcomes for the community.

Primary care availability is paramount. This serves as the gateway to the healthcare system, providing preventative care, managing chronic conditions, and coordinating referrals to specialists. The presence of a robust primary care network in Centre is crucial. Assessing this involves examining the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) practicing within the ZIP code, the types of practices they operate (solo, group, hospital-affiliated), and the hours of operation. Furthermore, the acceptance of various insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, significantly impacts accessibility for a large segment of the population. A shortage of PCPs, or limited access due to insurance restrictions, can lead to delayed diagnoses, poorer health management, and increased reliance on emergency room services, which are often more expensive and less efficient for managing chronic conditions.

Identifying standout practices is essential. Certain medical practices in Centre may demonstrate excellence in patient care, innovative service delivery, or community engagement. Assessing these practices involves evaluating patient satisfaction scores, the adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) for improved care coordination, and the implementation of patient-centered care models. Practices that prioritize preventative care, offer extended hours, or provide culturally sensitive services often receive higher marks. Furthermore, practices actively involved in community outreach programs, such as health screenings or educational initiatives, contribute significantly to the overall health of the community.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical aspect. The ability to access healthcare remotely has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas where geographic barriers can limit access to care. The level of telemedicine adoption among doctors in Centre is an important indicator. This includes the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring of patients with chronic conditions, and the use of telehealth platforms for follow-up appointments. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can improve access to care, reduce travel time for patients, and potentially lower healthcare costs. The effectiveness of telemedicine, however, depends on factors like internet access and digital literacy among the patient population.

Mental health resources are a crucial component of overall health. Mental health is often overlooked, yet it significantly impacts physical health and overall well-being. Assessing the availability of mental health services in Centre involves examining the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed therapists, and mental health counselors. This includes the number of providers, the types of services offered (individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), and the acceptance of insurance plans. The availability of crisis intervention services, such as a 24-hour hotline, is also a critical factor. A lack of mental health resources can lead to untreated mental illnesses, increased rates of suicide, and a higher burden on the healthcare system.

The "Overall Health Score" for Centre, Alabama, ZIP Code 35960, is influenced by several factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, primary care availability, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources all contribute to the final assessment. The relatively low physician-to-patient ratio and the challenges in attracting and retaining medical professionals suggest a need for improvement. While specific data is needed for a precise score, it is crucial to acknowledge the importance of continued efforts to improve access to care, promote preventative health, and address the mental health needs of the community.

To gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Centre, Alabama, and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps provide a powerful tool for visualizing healthcare data, identifying areas of need, and informing healthcare planning and resource allocation.