36064, Pike Road, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 36064, Pike Road, Alabama is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.06 percent of the residents in 36064 has some form of health insurance. 19.56 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 85.77 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 36064 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,122 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36064. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,360 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,329 health care providers accessible to residents in 36064, Pike Road, Alabama.

The evaluation of overall health within Pike Road, Alabama, specifically focusing on the availability and quality of primary care physicians in ZIP Code 36064, presents a complex picture. Determining a definitive “Overall Health Score” necessitates a multi-faceted approach, considering factors beyond simple physician-to-patient ratios. This analysis will delve into the nuances of healthcare access, quality, and the integration of modern practices like telemedicine, ultimately painting a comprehensive picture of the healthcare landscape in this specific area.

Physician-to-patient ratios serve as a foundational metric. However, they are not the sole determinant of healthcare quality. A high ratio, indicating a greater number of patients per physician, can suggest potential challenges in access and appointment availability. Conversely, a low ratio doesn't automatically equate to superior care; other factors, such as the experience and specialization of the physicians, the efficiency of practice management, and the availability of support staff, play equally crucial roles. Information regarding specific ratios for 36064 requires accessing current data from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or similar sources. This data provides a baseline understanding of the potential patient load each physician shoulders.

Beyond raw numbers, the characteristics of the available primary care practices are crucial. Are these practices primarily solo practices, or are they part of larger, integrated healthcare systems? Integrated systems often offer advantages like coordinated care, access to specialists, and shared electronic health records, all of which can improve patient outcomes. The presence of board-certified physicians, the availability of on-site diagnostic services (e.g., X-rays, lab work), and the practice's commitment to preventative care are all indicators of quality. Researching individual practices within 36064, examining their websites, patient reviews, and affiliations, is essential for a thorough assessment.

The adoption of telemedicine is another critical element. Telemedicine, the practice of providing healthcare remotely via video conferencing or other digital tools, offers significant benefits, particularly in rural or underserved areas. It can improve access to care, reduce travel time for patients, and allow for more frequent follow-up appointments. Assessing the telemedicine capabilities of practices in 36064 – whether they offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, or online patient portals – is an important factor in evaluating overall health accessibility. This also includes examining the availability of telehealth services from larger healthcare networks that may serve the area.

Mental health resources represent a critical component of overall well-being. Primary care physicians often serve as the first point of contact for individuals experiencing mental health concerns. Therefore, the availability of mental health support within primary care practices, such as on-site therapists or referral networks to mental health specialists, is a significant factor. Furthermore, the presence of community mental health services, support groups, and crisis intervention resources within Pike Road contributes to a more robust healthcare ecosystem. The integration of mental health services with primary care is increasingly recognized as best practice, leading to improved outcomes.

Identifying standout practices within 36064 requires a combination of quantitative and qualitative data. While patient reviews provide valuable insights into patient satisfaction and the perceived quality of care, they are subjective and can be influenced by individual experiences. Analyzing metrics such as patient outcomes, preventative care rates, and adherence to evidence-based guidelines can provide a more objective assessment. Furthermore, examining the practice's commitment to patient education, communication, and cultural sensitivity can contribute to a holistic understanding of its strengths.

The overall health score for primary care availability in Pike Road (ZIP Code 36064) cannot be expressed as a single, definitive number. It is a composite measure influenced by various factors. If physician-to-patient ratios are relatively favorable, but telemedicine adoption is limited, and mental health resources are scarce, the overall score would likely be lower than if all three areas are well-developed. The score should reflect the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape, acknowledging the interconnectedness of these factors.

The specific practices and their individual attributes are critical to this evaluation. Researching the practices, reviewing their services, and understanding their approach to patient care is essential. The availability of after-hours care, the ease of scheduling appointments, and the practice's responsiveness to patient inquiries all contribute to the overall patient experience and influence the assessment of the healthcare environment.

The demographics of the population served by these primary care practices are also important. Understanding the age distribution, socioeconomic status, and health needs of the population can help to assess the adequacy of healthcare services. For example, if a significant portion of the population is elderly, the availability of geriatric care and specialized services for age-related conditions becomes particularly important.

Ultimately, assessing the overall health of a community requires a comprehensive approach. This analysis is a starting point for understanding the healthcare landscape in Pike Road. Further investigation is necessary to gain a complete picture. This includes gathering detailed information from local healthcare providers, patient feedback, and data from public health agencies.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Pike Road, including the locations of primary care practices, hospitals, pharmacies, and other healthcare resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. These maps can help you visualize the distribution of healthcare services and identify potential gaps in access.