36251, Ashland, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 36251, Ashland, Alabama is 10 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.48 percent of the residents in 36251 has some form of health insurance. 37.41 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.48 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 36251 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,237 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36251. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 847 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 86 health care providers accessible to residents in 36251, Ashland, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Ashland, Alabama (ZIP Code 36251)

Assessing the overall health landscape of Ashland, Alabama, necessitates a multifaceted approach, considering factors beyond simple population demographics. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources within the ZIP code 36251, aiming to provide an overall health score evaluation.

The foundation of a healthy community rests on accessible primary care. Ashland, a relatively small town, likely experiences challenges common to rural areas regarding physician availability. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A higher ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, indicates potential difficulties in accessing timely appointments, preventative care, and ongoing management of chronic conditions. Data from sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) or state medical boards would be essential to determine the precise ratio for 36251. This data would then be compared to state and national averages to establish a benchmark.

The presence of standout medical practices can significantly impact the overall health score. These practices often demonstrate excellence in patient care, innovative treatment approaches, and a commitment to community health. Identifying these practices requires research. Factors to consider include patient satisfaction ratings, the range of services offered (e.g., preventative care, chronic disease management, specialized clinics), and the practice's involvement in community health initiatives. The presence of a federally qualified health center (FQHC) or a rural health clinic (RHC) would be a significant positive indicator, as these facilities are designed to serve underserved populations.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor. Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas where geographical barriers can limit access to care. The degree to which physicians in 36251 utilize telemedicine for virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and prescription refills directly impacts the accessibility and convenience of healthcare services. Assessing telemedicine adoption involves examining the availability of virtual appointment options, the types of services offered via telemedicine, and patient satisfaction with these services.

Mental health resources are an integral part of overall health. The availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors, is crucial. Rural areas often face shortages in mental health services. Assessing the mental health landscape in 36251 requires identifying the number of mental health providers, the types of services they offer (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), and the accessibility of these services. This includes considering factors like insurance acceptance, wait times for appointments, and the availability of crisis intervention services. The presence of community mental health centers or partnerships with local schools or organizations would be positive indicators.

Beyond the specific factors mentioned, other elements contribute to the overall health score. These include the availability of specialty care (e.g., cardiology, dermatology), the presence of a local hospital or emergency room, the prevalence of chronic diseases within the community, and the overall socioeconomic conditions. The health score is not just about the availability of medical services; it also reflects the community's ability to access and utilize these services.

To arrive at an overall health score, each of the factors discussed would need to be weighted based on their relative importance. For example, physician-to-patient ratio and access to primary care would likely be given a higher weight than telemedicine adoption, although the importance of telemedicine is growing. Data from various sources, including public health agencies, medical boards, insurance providers, and patient surveys, would be collected and analyzed. The analysis would then translate the data into a numerical score, allowing for a comparative assessment of the health landscape in 36251.

The final health score should be interpreted with caution. It provides a snapshot of the current health landscape, but it does not capture the dynamic nature of healthcare. The score can be used to identify areas of strength and weakness, inform community health initiatives, and track progress over time.

In conclusion, evaluating the overall health score for Ashland, Alabama (ZIP Code 36251) requires a detailed analysis of various factors, including physician availability, the presence of quality medical practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. A comprehensive assessment, considering both quantitative data and qualitative insights, is essential to provide a meaningful and actionable evaluation of the community's health landscape. This assessment helps to identify areas where improvements are needed and to support efforts to enhance the overall health and well-being of the residents of Ashland.

For a deeper dive into the spatial relationships of healthcare resources and population demographics within 36251, and to visualize this data in an interactive map, explore the possibilities with CartoChrome maps.