35967, Fort Payne, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 35967, Fort Payne, Alabama is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.82 percent of the residents in 35967 has some form of health insurance. 39.70 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.79 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 35967 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,463 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35967. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,904 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 885 health care providers accessible to residents in 35967, Fort Payne, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Fort Payne, Alabama (ZIP Code 35967)

Fort Payne, Alabama, nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, presents a unique healthcare landscape. Evaluating the overall health score for the area requires a multifaceted approach, considering factors beyond simple physician counts. This analysis delves into the current state of healthcare access, quality, and resources within ZIP Code 35967, focusing on primary care availability and the broader health ecosystem.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a foundational metric. In Fort Payne, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a significant concern. The rural nature of the area, coupled with potential physician shortages, likely results in a higher patient-to-physician ratio than the national average. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially poorer health outcomes. Assessing the precise ratio necessitates data from the state medical board, the U.S. Census Bureau, and potentially local hospital systems. A lower ratio, indicative of fewer physicians per capita, suggests a weaker overall health score.

Beyond sheer numbers, the distribution of primary care physicians is crucial. Are PCPs clustered in specific areas of the city, leaving other neighborhoods underserved? The presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or rural health clinics can mitigate access issues. These facilities often provide care to underserved populations, including those with low incomes or limited access to transportation. The location and capacity of these clinics significantly impact the overall health score.

Identifying standout practices within Fort Payne is vital. Practices that prioritize patient-centered care, utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively, and demonstrate positive patient outcomes contribute positively to the health score. Factors to consider include patient satisfaction scores, the availability of extended hours, and the range of services offered (e.g., chronic disease management, preventative screenings). Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives and demonstrate a commitment to patient education are particularly noteworthy.

Telemedicine adoption is a critical element in assessing the health score. The ability to access healthcare remotely can be especially beneficial in rural areas, where travel distances can be a barrier. The availability of telehealth services, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online prescription refills, improves access and convenience. The degree to which local practices and hospitals have embraced telemedicine, and the types of services offered, directly impact the overall health score.

Mental health resources are an essential component of overall well-being. Access to mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is a crucial factor in the health score. The availability of mental health services, such as individual therapy, group therapy, and medication management, is assessed. The presence of local mental health clinics, the integration of mental health services within primary care practices, and the availability of crisis intervention services all contribute to the overall health score.

The presence of specialized healthcare services also influences the health score. While this analysis focuses on primary care, the availability of specialists, such as cardiologists, endocrinologists, and gastroenterologists, impacts the comprehensive healthcare landscape. The proximity to larger medical centers in neighboring cities, such as Huntsville or Birmingham, can provide access to specialized care, but this also introduces travel considerations and potential delays in treatment.

Community health initiatives and public health programs play a significant role. The presence of programs focused on preventative care, health education, and chronic disease management improves the overall health score. The effectiveness of these programs in reaching the community and improving health outcomes is assessed. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government agencies is crucial for success.

Insurance coverage rates are a key determinant of healthcare access. The percentage of the population with health insurance, including private insurance, Medicare, and Medicaid, directly impacts the ability to access healthcare services. Areas with higher rates of uninsured individuals may experience poorer health outcomes. Data on insurance coverage rates is obtained from sources like the U.S. Census Bureau and the Alabama Department of Public Health.

The socioeconomic factors of the community influence health outcomes. Poverty rates, education levels, and employment rates are all correlated with health. Areas with higher rates of poverty and lower levels of education may experience poorer health outcomes. Understanding the socioeconomic context of Fort Payne is essential for a comprehensive health score analysis.

Data collection and analysis are crucial for a robust health score. This involves gathering information from various sources, including:

* **The Alabama State Board of Medical Examiners:** Provides physician licensing and registration data.
* **The U.S. Census Bureau:** Offers demographic and socioeconomic data.
* **The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS):** Provides data on healthcare utilization and quality.
* **Local hospitals and clinics:** Can provide information on services offered, patient volumes, and patient satisfaction.
* **Public health agencies:** Offer data on disease prevalence, health programs, and community health initiatives.

The methodology for calculating the overall health score involves assigning weights to each factor based on its relative importance. For example, physician-to-patient ratio and insurance coverage rates may be weighted more heavily than the availability of specialized services. The final score is then calculated by combining the weighted scores for each factor.

In conclusion, assessing the overall health score for Fort Payne (ZIP Code 35967) requires a comprehensive evaluation of multiple factors. Primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the socioeconomic context of the community all contribute to the overall health score. By considering these factors, a more accurate assessment of the healthcare landscape can be achieved, leading to targeted improvements and better health outcomes for the residents of Fort Payne.

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