35963, Dawson, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 35963, Dawson, Alabama is 15 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.50 percent of the residents in 35963 has some form of health insurance. 36.85 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.19 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 35963 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 210 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35963. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 174 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,510 health care providers accessible to residents in 35963, Dawson, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Dawson, Alabama (ZIP Code 35963)

Evaluating the overall health landscape in Dawson, Alabama, specifically within the 35963 ZIP code, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis delves into primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption rates, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The aim is to provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" assessment, reflecting the community's access to quality healthcare.

The cornerstone of any healthy community is readily available primary care. In Dawson, the accessibility of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical factor. Determining the physician-to-patient ratio is the first step. This ratio, which represents the number of residents served by each PCP, provides a preliminary understanding of potential access challenges. A higher ratio suggests fewer physicians are available to serve a larger population, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced access to preventative care. Data from state and national sources, coupled with local surveys, would be necessary to establish an accurate ratio for 35963.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality and reputation of existing primary care practices significantly impact the overall health score. Identifying standout practices involves examining factors such as patient satisfaction, the range of services offered, and the adoption of innovative healthcare approaches. Practices with a strong track record of patient care, coupled with a commitment to preventative medicine and chronic disease management, contribute positively to the health score. Conversely, practices with limited service offerings or negative patient feedback would detract from the overall assessment.

The modern healthcare landscape is increasingly shaped by technology, and telemedicine adoption is a crucial aspect of this analysis. The availability of telehealth services, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, can significantly improve access to care, especially for residents in rural areas like Dawson. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering convenient and accessible healthcare options, would receive higher marks. The level of telemedicine adoption within the 35963 ZIP code, including the types of services offered and the number of patients utilizing them, is a vital component of the overall health score.

Mental health resources are an essential element of comprehensive healthcare. The availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is a critical factor in assessing the community's health. The analysis must consider the number of mental health providers, the types of services offered (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), and the accessibility of these services. Factors such as insurance acceptance, wait times for appointments, and the presence of community mental health programs are also important considerations. A community with limited mental health resources would receive a lower overall health score.

Furthermore, the presence of specialized healthcare services within or near the 35963 ZIP code contributes to the overall health assessment. This includes access to specialists such as cardiologists, endocrinologists, and gastroenterologists. The need for residents to travel long distances for specialized care can negatively impact their health outcomes and access to timely treatment. The availability of these services, or the proximity of nearby healthcare facilities, is a key factor.

The overall health score for Dawson, Alabama, is not a static number but rather a dynamic assessment reflecting the interplay of various factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources are all interconnected. A community with a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, excellent primary care practices, widespread telemedicine adoption, and robust mental health services would receive a high overall health score. Conversely, a community facing challenges in these areas would receive a lower score.

The analysis of the 35963 ZIP code must also consider the demographics of the population. Factors such as age distribution, socioeconomic status, and the prevalence of chronic diseases can influence healthcare needs and the overall health score. A community with a large elderly population, for example, may require more geriatric care services. Understanding the specific health needs of the population is crucial for a comprehensive assessment.

To further refine the analysis, data from various sources would be integrated. This includes data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Alabama Department of Public Health, and local healthcare providers. Patient satisfaction surveys, community health needs assessments, and interviews with healthcare professionals would also provide valuable insights. The collection and analysis of this data are essential for creating an accurate and meaningful overall health score.

The overall health score is not simply a ranking; it is a tool for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in Dawson, Alabama. This understanding can inform efforts to improve healthcare access, quality, and outcomes. It can also guide policymakers, healthcare providers, and community organizations in their efforts to address specific health needs and improve the overall well-being of the residents of the 35963 ZIP code.

The analysis would also consider the presence of community resources that support health and wellness. This includes access to healthy food options, recreational facilities, and community health programs. The availability of these resources can positively impact the overall health of the community and contribute to a higher overall health score.

The final "Overall Health Score" would be a composite metric, reflecting the weighted average of the various factors considered. The weighting of each factor would be determined based on its relative importance in influencing health outcomes. The score would be presented in a clear and concise manner, accompanied by a detailed explanation of the methodology and the underlying data. This comprehensive analysis provides a valuable assessment of the healthcare landscape in Dawson, Alabama, and serves as a foundation for future improvements.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Dawson, Alabama, including the location of healthcare providers, telemedicine availability, and other relevant data, consider exploring the power of spatial analysis with CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive maps that can bring this data to life, providing valuable insights into healthcare accessibility and resource distribution.