35968, Fort Payne, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 35968, Fort Payne, Alabama is 13 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 81.63 percent of the residents in 35968 has some form of health insurance. 37.33 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.98 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 35968 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,212 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35968. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 860 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 837 health care providers accessible to residents in 35968, Fort Payne, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Fort Payne, Alabama (ZIP Code 35968)

Analyzing the overall health landscape of Fort Payne, Alabama (ZIP code 35968) requires a multifaceted approach. We must examine physician availability, the quality of care provided, and the accessibility of crucial health services. This analysis will culminate in an ‘Overall Health Score’ assessment, considering several key factors.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Primary Care Availability:**

One of the most critical indicators of community health is the physician-to-patient ratio. This metric directly impacts access to care. In Fort Payne, the ratio will be assessed by analyzing the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) practicing within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas, relative to the population. Data from the U.S. Census Bureau and the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners will be utilized to determine the population size and the number of practicing physicians. A low physician-to-patient ratio, indicating a shortage of PCPs, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced preventative care, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes. The analysis will also consider the proximity of specialists, as referrals from PCPs are crucial for managing complex health conditions.

Primary care availability is not solely determined by the number of physicians. The operational hours of clinics, the acceptance of new patients, and the insurance plans accepted also play a vital role. We will investigate the availability of same-day appointments, weekend hours, and the presence of walk-in clinics to gauge the ease of access to care. Furthermore, the analysis will consider the geographic distribution of primary care practices within the ZIP code, identifying any potential disparities in access for residents in different areas of Fort Payne.

**Standout Practices and Quality of Care:**

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors. Patient reviews, both online and through surveys, provide valuable insights into patient satisfaction, communication, and the overall patient experience. The analysis will incorporate data from reputable sources like Healthgrades and Vitals. Furthermore, we will assess the practice's commitment to preventative care, including the availability of routine screenings, vaccinations, and health education programs. The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) and the integration of technology to improve patient care will also be considered. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to quality improvement initiatives, such as participation in quality reporting programs, will be given higher scores.

The quality of care will be assessed by examining the practices' performance on key clinical indicators. This includes the management of chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension, as well as the rates of hospital readmissions. Data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and other relevant sources will be used to evaluate the practices' performance on these metrics. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to evidence-based medicine and patient-centered care will be recognized for their contributions to the community's health.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Accessibility:**

Telemedicine has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas like Fort Payne. It can significantly improve access to care by reducing the need for travel and providing convenient access to specialists. The analysis will evaluate the adoption of telemedicine by local practices, including the availability of virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring, and online patient portals. We will assess the types of services offered via telemedicine, such as primary care visits, mental health counseling, and specialist consultations. The analysis will also consider the accessibility of telemedicine services, including the availability of broadband internet access in the community and the affordability of telemedicine platforms. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their care delivery models will be recognized for their innovation and commitment to patient convenience.

**Mental Health Resources:**

Mental health is a critical component of overall well-being, and the availability of mental health resources in Fort Payne will be carefully examined. The analysis will identify the number of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors practicing within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas. We will assess the availability of mental health services for children, adolescents, and adults. The analysis will also consider the presence of community mental health centers, support groups, and other resources that provide mental health support.

Furthermore, we will evaluate the integration of mental health services into primary care practices. The presence of behavioral health specialists within primary care settings can improve access to mental health care and reduce the stigma associated with seeking help. The analysis will also consider the availability of crisis intervention services and emergency mental health care. A comprehensive assessment of mental health resources will be crucial for determining the overall health score of Fort Payne.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

Based on the factors discussed above, an ‘Overall Health Score’ will be assigned to Fort Payne (ZIP code 35968). This score will be a composite measure, reflecting the physician-to-patient ratio, primary care availability, the quality of care provided by standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The score will be presented on a scale, allowing for a comparative analysis with other communities. The analysis will also identify areas where improvements are needed, such as addressing physician shortages, increasing access to mental health services, and promoting the adoption of telemedicine.

**Conclusion:**

The health landscape of Fort Payne, Alabama, presents a complex picture. While the community may have strengths in certain areas, there are likely opportunities for improvement. A thorough understanding of the physician-to-patient ratio, primary care availability, the quality of care, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources is essential for developing effective strategies to improve the health of the community.

To visualize the spatial distribution of healthcare resources and gain a deeper understanding of the health landscape in Fort Payne and surrounding areas, explore the interactive maps available through CartoChrome. These maps provide a powerful tool for analyzing healthcare access, identifying disparities, and making informed decisions to improve community health.