36256, Daviston, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 36256, Daviston, Alabama is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.83 percent of the residents in 36256 has some form of health insurance. 36.40 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.11 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 36256 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 386 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36256. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 261 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 75 health care providers accessible to residents in 36256, Daviston, Alabama.

Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 36256 and Primary Care Availability in Daviston

Assessing the overall health landscape within ZIP code 36256 and the primary care availability specifically in Daviston, Alabama, necessitates a multifaceted approach. This analysis will consider physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview, culminating in a call to action for a powerful mapping tool.

Physician-to-Patient Ratios: A Foundation of Access

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a crucial indicator of access to care. A low ratio, reflecting a limited number of doctors relative to the population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially, poorer health outcomes. Evaluating the specific physician-to-patient ratio within ZIP code 36256 is essential. This requires data on the total population residing within the area and the number of actively practicing physicians, particularly primary care physicians. Publicly available data from sources such as the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or state health departments can provide valuable insights. Furthermore, analyzing the distribution of these physicians within the ZIP code is also important. Are the doctors concentrated in a specific area, leaving other parts of the ZIP code underserved? The geographical distribution of physicians directly impacts accessibility for residents.

Standout Practices: Centers of Excellence

Identifying standout medical practices is another critical aspect of the analysis. These practices often demonstrate excellence in patient care, utilize innovative technologies, and offer a wider range of services. Factors to consider include patient satisfaction scores (often available through online reviews or patient surveys), accreditations from reputable organizations, and the range of specialties offered. In Daviston, the availability of primary care physicians is paramount. Are there well-established clinics with a history of providing quality care? Do these practices offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate patient needs? Furthermore, the adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) is a key indicator of a modern, efficient practice. Practices that embrace EHRs often improve care coordination and patient communication.

Telemedicine Adoption: Bridging the Distance

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant factor in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. Its ability to connect patients with physicians remotely can overcome geographical barriers and improve access to care. Assessing the adoption of telemedicine within ZIP code 36256 and specifically in Daviston is therefore crucial. Are local practices offering virtual consultations? Do they provide remote monitoring services for chronic conditions? The availability of telemedicine can be a game-changer for patients who have difficulty traveling to appointments or who require frequent check-ups. Examining the types of telemedicine services offered, such as video conferencing, remote patient monitoring, and online patient portals, will provide a more detailed picture.

Mental Health Resources: Addressing a Critical Need

Mental health is an integral part of overall health, and the availability of mental health resources is a key indicator of community well-being. Evaluating the presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed counselors, within ZIP code 36256 is essential. Are there mental health clinics or counseling services available? Do these resources accept a variety of insurance plans? In Daviston, where access to specialized healthcare might be limited, the availability of mental health resources becomes even more critical. Are there partnerships between primary care physicians and mental health providers to facilitate referrals and integrated care? The availability of support groups and mental health educational programs also contributes to a supportive environment.

Specifics in Daviston: A Deeper Dive

Focusing on Daviston, the analysis needs to delve deeper into the specifics of primary care availability. What is the average wait time for a primary care appointment? Are there any urgent care facilities nearby that can provide immediate care? The presence of a hospital or medical center within a reasonable distance is also an important factor. Furthermore, considering the demographics of Daviston, are the healthcare services tailored to the specific needs of the population? For example, are there services available for the elderly or for individuals with chronic conditions? This level of detail is critical for understanding the true accessibility and quality of primary care in the area.

Data Collection and Analysis: A Comprehensive Approach

Gathering the necessary data for this analysis requires a multi-pronged approach. Publicly available data from government agencies, such as the HRSA and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), can provide valuable information on physician-to-patient ratios and health indicators. Online directories of physicians and healthcare facilities can offer insights into the types of services offered and the adoption of telemedicine. Local community resources, such as health departments and community health centers, can provide valuable information on mental health resources and other support services. Patient reviews and surveys can offer insights into patient satisfaction and the quality of care. This data needs to be compiled, analyzed, and interpreted to arrive at a comprehensive understanding of the health landscape.

Challenges and Limitations: Acknowledging the Complexities

It is important to acknowledge the challenges and limitations of this analysis. Data availability can be a significant issue, particularly in rural areas. Some data may be outdated or incomplete. Furthermore, assessing the quality of care can be subjective and difficult to quantify. Patient satisfaction scores, while valuable, may not always reflect the true quality of care. Despite these limitations, a comprehensive analysis can provide valuable insights into the health landscape and identify areas for improvement.

Conclusion: A Call to Action

Understanding the overall health score within ZIP code 36256 and the primary care availability in Daviston requires a detailed examination of physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the complexities of healthcare access and quality. To visualize and further explore the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. Their interactive mapping tools can help you pinpoint the location of physicians, clinics, and other vital services, providing a clear picture of healthcare accessibility in the area.