36091, Verbena, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 36091, Verbena, Alabama is 13 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 79.56 percent of the residents in 36091 has some form of health insurance. 45.99 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 50.03 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 36091 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 537 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36091. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 686 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 420 health care providers accessible to residents in 36091, Verbena, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: ZIP Code 36091 & Verbena Primary Care

This analysis delves into the overall health landscape of ZIP code 36091 (Verbena, Alabama) focusing on primary care availability and related health indicators. The goal is to provide a comprehensive assessment, moving beyond simple lists to offer a nuanced understanding of the strengths and weaknesses within this community.

The foundation of any health assessment lies in access to primary care physicians. The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial metric. A low ratio suggests potential challenges in securing timely appointments and consistent care. While specific, up-to-the-minute data on physician counts and patient demographics fluctuates, a general understanding of rural Alabama’s healthcare infrastructure provides context. Verbena, being a rural community, likely faces a lower physician-to-patient ratio than more urban areas. This can translate to longer wait times, limited appointment slots, and potentially, a reliance on emergency room services for non-emergency conditions.

The availability of primary care extends beyond the number of physicians. The presence of clinics, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities is vital. The geographical distribution of these resources within the ZIP code and surrounding areas is also significant. Are facilities easily accessible by all residents, including those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges? Are there adequate support services, such as pharmacies and diagnostic imaging centers, within a reasonable distance? These factors contribute to the overall accessibility and convenience of primary care.

Standout practices within the community, or those serving the community, can significantly impact the overall health score. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, employing innovative approaches to improve health outcomes. They might offer extended hours, same-day appointments, or specialized services. Identifying and highlighting these exemplary practices is crucial for recognizing positive contributions to community health. However, specific practice names and details are omitted to protect patient privacy and avoid potential bias.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical aspect of modern healthcare. The use of virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and digital health tools can enhance access to care, particularly in rural areas where geographic barriers are significant. Telemedicine can connect patients with specialists, provide convenient follow-up appointments, and offer educational resources. The level of telemedicine adoption among primary care providers in Verbena is an important factor in determining the overall health score. A higher adoption rate suggests a more progressive and accessible healthcare system.

Mental health resources are an indispensable component of overall well-being. The availability of mental health services, including therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is crucial for addressing the growing prevalence of mental health conditions. Access to these services can be particularly challenging in rural areas. The presence of mental health professionals, support groups, and community-based programs within or near Verbena directly impacts the health score. Any gaps in mental health services represent a significant area for improvement.

The coordination of care is another key consideration. Effective communication and collaboration between primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare providers are essential for ensuring continuity of care and preventing medical errors. The existence of electronic health records (EHRs) and interoperability between different healthcare systems can facilitate this coordination. The degree to which healthcare providers in Verbena utilize these technologies is an indicator of the overall health score.

Preventive care services, such as vaccinations, screenings, and health education programs, play a vital role in promoting health and preventing disease. The availability and utilization of these services within the community are crucial. Are residents receiving recommended screenings for conditions like cancer and diabetes? Are vaccination rates adequate? The community's approach to preventive care significantly impacts its overall health score.

Community health initiatives and programs can further enhance the health landscape. These might include programs focused on chronic disease management, healthy eating, physical activity, or substance abuse prevention. The presence of such initiatives, their scope, and their effectiveness, contribute to the overall health score. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government is essential for the success of these programs.

The socioeconomic factors prevalent in Verbena also influence health outcomes. Poverty, unemployment, and lack of access to healthy food and safe housing can all negatively impact health. Addressing these social determinants of health is crucial for improving the overall health score. Healthcare providers and community organizations can play a role in addressing these factors through partnerships and advocacy.

The quality of care provided by primary care physicians is paramount. This includes the accuracy of diagnoses, the effectiveness of treatments, and the overall patient experience. Patient satisfaction surveys, clinical outcomes data, and other quality metrics can provide insights into the quality of care. The commitment of healthcare providers to continuous quality improvement is a positive indicator of the overall health score.

The overall health score for ZIP code 36091, with its primary care availability in Verbena, is complex. It is a function of many interacting factors, including physician availability, access to facilities, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and community initiatives. While this analysis provides a general overview, a comprehensive assessment would require detailed data collection and analysis.

For a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Verbena and the surrounding areas, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive visualizations of healthcare data, allowing you to explore physician locations, facility access, and other relevant information.