36260, Eastaboga, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 36260, Eastaboga, Alabama is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.39 percent of the residents in 36260 has some form of health insurance. 52.46 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.76 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 36260 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,143 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36260. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,023 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 117 health care providers accessible to residents in 36260, Eastaboga, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Eastaboga, AL (ZIP Code 36260)

Analyzing the overall health score for the Eastaboga, Alabama (ZIP Code 36260) area necessitates a multifaceted approach, considering various factors impacting residents' well-being. This analysis focuses on primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health resources. A holistic view allows for a more accurate assessment of the health landscape in this specific locale.

The cornerstone of a healthy community is readily available primary care. In Eastaboga, assessing primary care availability involves evaluating the number of practicing physicians within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas. Furthermore, the analysis must consider the types of practices available, such as family medicine, internal medicine, and general practitioners, to gauge the breadth of services offered. A limited number of primary care physicians, coupled with long wait times for appointments, would negatively impact the overall health score. Conversely, a robust network of accessible primary care providers would significantly boost the score.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a crucial metric. A high ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to increased workloads for existing doctors, potentially affecting the quality of care and the time available for each patient. This can also create barriers to accessing care, especially for those with chronic conditions or complex medical needs. Conversely, a low ratio, signifying a greater availability of physicians, suggests a more accessible and responsive healthcare system. Data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) would be essential in determining the physician-to-patient ratio within the 36260 ZIP code and comparing it to state and national averages.

Identifying standout practices in Eastaboga involves looking beyond the sheer number of physicians. Factors such as patient satisfaction ratings, the adoption of innovative technologies, and the range of services offered are critical. Practices that embrace electronic health records (EHRs), offer extended hours, and provide comprehensive preventative care would be considered favorably. Reviews from patients, as well as accreditations from reputable organizations, can provide valuable insights into the quality of care provided by specific practices.

Telemedicine adoption has the potential to significantly impact the health score, especially in rural areas like Eastaboga. The ability to access healthcare remotely, through video consultations, remote monitoring, and online portals, can reduce geographical barriers and improve access to specialists. Practices actively utilizing telemedicine platforms, particularly for follow-up appointments, chronic disease management, and mental health services, would contribute positively to the overall health score. The availability of reliable internet access within the community is also a crucial factor in the successful implementation of telemedicine.

Access to mental health resources is a critical component of overall well-being. The analysis must assess the availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors within the 36260 ZIP code and the surrounding areas. The presence of mental health clinics, support groups, and crisis intervention services would be considered favorably. Furthermore, the integration of mental health services into primary care practices, allowing for early detection and treatment of mental health conditions, is a positive indicator. The availability of mental health resources directly impacts the overall health score, as untreated mental health issues can significantly affect physical health and quality of life.

The overall health score for Eastaboga would be a composite of these factors. A high score would indicate a community with readily available primary care, a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, standout practices providing high-quality care, widespread telemedicine adoption, and robust access to mental health resources. Conversely, a low score would reflect challenges in these areas, potentially indicating limited access to care, longer wait times, and a greater burden on existing healthcare providers.

Evaluating the availability of specialists, such as cardiologists, dermatologists, and endocrinologists, is also important. While primary care is the foundation, access to specialized medical expertise is crucial for managing complex health conditions. The proximity of specialty care providers and the ease with which patients can access them would contribute to the overall health score.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the demographic characteristics of the population in Eastaboga, including age, socioeconomic status, and prevalence of chronic diseases. These factors can influence healthcare needs and the effectiveness of healthcare interventions. Understanding the specific health challenges faced by the community is essential for developing targeted strategies to improve the overall health score.

Another aspect to consider is the presence of community health initiatives and programs. Programs focused on preventative care, health education, and chronic disease management can significantly improve the health of the population. The availability of these programs, as well as their effectiveness in reaching the target population, would be factored into the overall health score.

The integration of technology in healthcare extends beyond telemedicine. The use of patient portals, mobile health apps, and wearable devices can empower patients to take a more active role in their health management. Practices that embrace these technologies and provide patients with the tools they need to monitor their health and communicate with their providers would be viewed favorably.

In conclusion, assessing the overall health score for Eastaboga (ZIP Code 36260) is a complex process that requires a comprehensive evaluation of various factors. The availability of primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, access to mental health resources, and the presence of community health initiatives all play a crucial role. A thorough analysis, incorporating data from multiple sources and considering the unique characteristics of the community, is essential for providing an accurate assessment of the health landscape and identifying areas for improvement.

To visualize and explore the healthcare landscape in Eastaboga, consider using CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a detailed visual representation of healthcare resources, helping you understand the distribution of providers and identify potential gaps in care.