35987, Steele, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 35987, Steele, Alabama is 10 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.83 percent of the residents in 35987 has some form of health insurance. 29.76 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.93 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 35987 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 663 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35987. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 517 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 622 health care providers accessible to residents in 35987, Steele, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Steele, Alabama (ZIP Code 35987)

This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment for the community of Steele, Alabama, focusing on healthcare access and quality. We examine the availability of primary care physicians, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources within the ZIP code 35987. This evaluation aims to paint a comprehensive picture of the healthcare landscape in Steele, offering insights into its strengths and areas needing improvement.

The foundation of a healthy community lies in the availability of primary care physicians. These doctors serve as the entry point to the healthcare system, providing preventive care, managing chronic conditions, and coordinating specialist referrals. In Steele (35987), assessing the number of primary care physicians relative to the population is crucial. This physician-to-patient ratio directly impacts access to care. A low ratio, indicating a limited number of doctors for a larger population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventive services, and potential delays in diagnosis and treatment. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests better access and potentially improved health outcomes.

Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio for Steele requires gathering data on the number of practicing primary care physicians within the ZIP code and comparing it to the population size. Publicly available resources, such as the U.S. Census Bureau and state medical licensing boards, can provide this information. The analysis should also consider the types of primary care physicians available, including family medicine, internal medicine, and pediatricians, ensuring a diverse range of services to meet the community's needs.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of care is paramount. Identifying standout medical practices within Steele is essential. These practices may be recognized for their patient satisfaction scores, their commitment to evidence-based medicine, or their innovative approaches to healthcare delivery. Factors to consider include the practice's accreditation status, the experience and qualifications of the physicians, and the availability of specialized services, such as on-site lab testing or imaging. Patient reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the patient experience and the overall quality of care.

The adoption of telemedicine has the potential to significantly impact healthcare access, particularly in rural areas like Steele. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially expanding access to specialists. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption in Steele involves investigating whether local practices offer virtual appointments, remote monitoring services, or other telehealth options. The analysis should also consider the availability of reliable internet access, a crucial factor for successful telemedicine implementation.

Mental health is an integral part of overall well-being, and the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of a healthy community. This analysis must evaluate the presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, within Steele or nearby areas. The availability of mental health services, including individual therapy, group therapy, and medication management, should be assessed. Furthermore, the analysis should consider the availability of support groups, crisis intervention services, and mental health awareness programs.

The integration of mental health services with primary care is another important factor. Co-locating mental health professionals within primary care practices can improve access to care and reduce the stigma associated with mental illness. Additionally, the analysis should consider the availability of resources for specific populations, such as children, adolescents, and the elderly.

The overall health score for Steele, Alabama (35987) is a composite measure reflecting the availability, quality, and accessibility of healthcare services. The score is derived from the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. A high score indicates a community with robust healthcare infrastructure, good access to care, and a commitment to quality. A low score suggests areas needing improvement, such as a shortage of primary care physicians, limited access to specialized services, or a lack of mental health resources.

This analysis provides a snapshot of the healthcare landscape in Steele. Regular updates and ongoing monitoring are essential to track changes and identify areas needing attention. Addressing any identified deficiencies requires a collaborative effort involving healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government agencies. Strategies to improve healthcare access and quality might include recruiting additional physicians, expanding telemedicine services, increasing mental health resources, and promoting community health education programs.

The success of these efforts depends on a thorough understanding of the local healthcare landscape and the specific needs of the community. Data visualization tools can be invaluable in this process, allowing stakeholders to easily understand complex information and identify patterns and trends.

To gain a more in-depth understanding of the healthcare landscape in Steele, Alabama, and visualize the data discussed in this analysis, we encourage you to explore the power of mapping. CartoChrome maps offer a dynamic and interactive platform for visualizing healthcare data, allowing you to explore physician locations, patient demographics, and health outcomes with unparalleled clarity. Visit CartoChrome today and unlock the power of data visualization to improve healthcare access and outcomes in your community.