35973, Gaylesville, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 35973, Gaylesville, Alabama is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.39 percent of the residents in 35973 has some form of health insurance. 35.42 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.46 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 35973 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 986 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35973. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 367 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 963 health care providers accessible to residents in 35973, Gaylesville, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Gaylesville, AL (ZIP Code 35973)

Evaluating the overall health landscape within Gaylesville, Alabama, necessitates a comprehensive analysis of available healthcare resources. This includes assessing the number of physicians, the accessibility of primary care, the integration of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health services. The goal is to derive an 'Overall Health Score' that reflects the community's capacity to provide and access quality medical care. This analysis focuses on the specifics of ZIP code 35973.

Physician-to-patient ratios serve as a foundational metric. An ideal ratio indicates a sufficient number of doctors to meet the population's needs. In Gaylesville, assessing this requires identifying the total number of practicing physicians, particularly primary care physicians (PCPs), within the specified ZIP code and comparing it to the estimated population. This data, often obtained from sources like the U.S. Census Bureau and the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners, paints a picture of potential access challenges. A low physician-to-patient ratio could signal longer wait times for appointments, increased travel distances to access care, and potential difficulties in establishing a strong patient-physician relationship. Conversely, a favorable ratio suggests a more accessible healthcare system.

Primary care availability is crucial. PCPs act as the gateway to the healthcare system, providing preventative care, managing chronic conditions, and coordinating specialist referrals. The presence of a robust primary care infrastructure is vital for overall community health. Assessing this involves identifying the number of primary care clinics, their operating hours, and the acceptance of new patients. Factors like the types of insurance accepted (Medicare, Medicaid, private insurance) also influence accessibility. The physical location of these clinics within Gaylesville and the surrounding areas also matters, as it impacts the ease with which residents can reach them.

Standout practices, if any, can significantly elevate the overall health score. These are medical facilities that demonstrate excellence in patient care, innovation, or community outreach. Identifying these practices involves researching patient reviews, examining the quality of care metrics (e.g., patient satisfaction scores, chronic disease management outcomes), and evaluating their commitment to community health initiatives. Practices that embrace technology, offer extended hours, or provide culturally sensitive care can be considered standout examples.

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, can enhance access to care by reducing the need for travel and connecting patients with specialists who may not be readily available locally. Evaluating telemedicine adoption involves assessing the availability of virtual appointments, the types of services offered via telemedicine (e.g., primary care consultations, mental health therapy), and the technological infrastructure supporting these services. Practices with robust telemedicine programs can significantly improve the accessibility of healthcare for Gaylesville residents.

Mental health resources are a critical component of overall well-being. Access to mental health services, including therapy, counseling, and psychiatric care, is essential for addressing mental health conditions and promoting emotional wellness. Evaluating the availability of mental health resources in Gaylesville involves identifying the number of mental health professionals (psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists), the types of services they offer, and the ease with which residents can access them. This includes assessing whether these professionals accept insurance, offer sliding-scale fees, or provide services specifically tailored to the needs of the community. The presence of support groups, crisis intervention services, and mental health education programs further enhances the community's mental health infrastructure.

The 'Overall Health Score' for Gaylesville, AL (35973) is a composite measure. It reflects the strengths and weaknesses identified in the analysis. A high score indicates a healthcare system that is accessible, comprehensive, and responsive to the community's needs. A low score suggests potential challenges in accessing care, a lack of resources, or a need for improvement in specific areas. The score is not a static number; it should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape.

In conclusion, the health of a community is multifaceted. The analysis of Gaylesville, Alabama, requires a detailed examination of physician availability, primary care access, telemedicine integration, and mental health resources. These elements, when combined, provide a comprehensive view of the community's ability to provide and receive quality medical care. The ultimate goal is to identify areas of strength and weakness, leading to informed decisions about resource allocation and healthcare improvements.

To visualize the healthcare landscape of Gaylesville and surrounding areas, including the location of physicians, clinics, and other healthcare resources, explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. This platform allows for a dynamic and detailed exploration of the healthcare ecosystem, providing valuable insights for both residents and healthcare providers.