36268, Munford, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 36268, Munford, Alabama is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.72 percent of the residents in 36268 has some form of health insurance. 39.25 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.55 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 36268 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,794 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36268. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,000 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 116 health care providers accessible to residents in 36268, Munford, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 36268 and Primary Care Availability in Munford

Analyzing the overall health score for doctors within ZIP code 36268, which encompasses the town of Munford, Alabama, requires a multifaceted approach. We need to assess various factors, including physician availability, the quality of care provided, access to specialized services, and the integration of technology. This analysis will provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in this specific geographic area.

One of the most critical indicators is the physician-to-patient ratio. This metric directly impacts access to care. A higher ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and overall decreased access to care. Determining the exact ratio for 36268 requires accessing data from the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners and the US Census Bureau. However, based on general trends in rural areas, it is likely that this area faces a shortage of primary care physicians. This shortage is a significant factor that would negatively impact the overall health score.

Beyond the sheer number of physicians, the quality of care provided is paramount. This involves evaluating the credentials of the doctors, their experience, and their adherence to evidence-based practices. Information on physician credentials can be found through the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners. Furthermore, patient reviews and satisfaction surveys, available on platforms like Healthgrades or Vitals, offer valuable insights into the patient experience. Practices with consistently positive reviews and high patient satisfaction scores would contribute positively to the overall health score.

Identifying standout practices within 36268 is crucial. These practices often serve as models for best practices and can significantly impact the health of the community. A practice that emphasizes preventative care, offers comprehensive services, and has a strong focus on patient education would be considered a standout. The presence of such practices can partially mitigate the challenges posed by a potentially lower physician-to-patient ratio.

The adoption of telemedicine is another crucial factor. Telemedicine, the practice of providing healthcare services remotely via technology, can significantly improve access to care, especially in rural areas. It allows patients to consult with doctors without traveling long distances, particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments or consultations with specialists. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring capabilities, would receive a higher score.

Mental health resources are an essential component of overall health. Access to mental healthcare, including therapy, counseling, and psychiatric services, is critical for the well-being of any community. Assessing the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed counselors, within 36268 is crucial. The presence of these resources, along with the integration of mental healthcare into primary care practices, would positively influence the overall health score. The lack of mental health resources, on the other hand, would significantly detract from the score.

Furthermore, the availability of specialized medical services must be considered. While primary care is the foundation of healthcare, access to specialists, such as cardiologists, dermatologists, and endocrinologists, is necessary for managing complex medical conditions. The proximity of specialists, either within 36268 or in nearby cities, affects the overall health score. The need to travel long distances for specialized care would negatively impact the score.

Another factor to consider is the socioeconomic status of the population in 36268. Poverty, lack of access to healthy food, and inadequate housing can all negatively impact health outcomes. Addressing these social determinants of health is crucial for improving the overall health score. This requires understanding the resources available to address these issues, such as food banks, affordable housing programs, and community health initiatives.

The presence of community health programs and initiatives also plays a significant role. These programs can include health education campaigns, preventative care screenings, and chronic disease management programs. Practices and organizations that actively participate in these initiatives demonstrate a commitment to improving the health of the community, contributing to a higher overall health score.

In summary, assessing the overall health score for doctors in ZIP code 36268 involves a complex evaluation of various factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, quality of care, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the availability of specialized services all contribute to the final score. The socioeconomic status of the population and the presence of community health programs also play a vital role.

While a definitive score requires detailed data analysis, the initial assessment indicates that 36268 likely faces challenges due to its rural location. The potential for a lower physician-to-patient ratio and limited access to specialized services may negatively impact the overall health score. However, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and robust community health initiatives can help mitigate these challenges. A more in-depth analysis, including data on physician credentials, patient satisfaction, and the availability of mental health resources, is necessary for a complete understanding.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in 36268 and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping solutions that can help you visualize data related to healthcare providers, patient demographics, and health outcomes. This tool can be invaluable for identifying areas with limited access to care and for developing strategies to improve health outcomes in Munford and the surrounding areas.