36271, Ohatchee, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 36271, Ohatchee, Alabama is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.13 percent of the residents in 36271 has some form of health insurance. 46.61 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.78 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 36271 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,554 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36271. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 977 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 183 health care providers accessible to residents in 36271, Ohatchee, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Ohatchee, Alabama (ZIP Code 36271)

Analyzing the overall health landscape within the Ohatchee, Alabama ZIP code 36271 requires a multifaceted approach. We must consider not only the number of physicians but also the accessibility of care, the availability of specialized services, and the integration of modern healthcare solutions. This analysis will culminate in an 'Overall Health Score' assessment, providing a comprehensive picture of the community's healthcare environment.

The foundation of any health assessment lies in the physician-to-patient ratio. Data suggests that Ohatchee, like many rural areas, may face challenges in this regard. The specific ratio within the ZIP code necessitates further investigation. However, the surrounding Calhoun County, which encompasses Ohatchee, may offer a broader perspective. Examining county-level data can provide insights into the overall availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare professionals. A lower physician-to-patient ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially poorer health outcomes.

Primary care availability is a crucial element. Ohatchee's residents depend on accessible primary care physicians for routine checkups, preventative screenings, and management of chronic conditions. The presence of established primary care practices within or near the ZIP code is vital. These practices serve as the gateway to the healthcare system, coordinating care and guiding patients through various medical needs. The number of primary care physicians, their appointment availability, and their acceptance of various insurance plans are all factors that influence the overall health score.

Identifying standout practices is essential. These practices often demonstrate excellence in patient care, innovative approaches to healthcare delivery, and a commitment to community well-being. They may offer extended hours, same-day appointments, or specialized services. These practices can serve as models for other providers and contribute significantly to raising the overall health score of the community. Researching patient reviews, examining accreditations, and evaluating the practice's commitment to patient education can help identify these standout providers.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly significant, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to access healthcare services remotely. The availability of telehealth consultations, remote monitoring programs, and virtual mental health services can improve access to care, reduce travel burdens, and enhance patient convenience. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption by local healthcare providers is a key factor in evaluating the overall health score. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to innovation and patient-centered care.

Mental health resources are a critical component of overall well-being. The availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is crucial for addressing mental health needs within the community. Access to these resources can significantly impact the overall health score. The presence of mental health clinics, counseling services, and support groups is essential. Furthermore, integrating mental health services into primary care settings can improve early detection and treatment of mental health conditions.

The integration of these factors – physician-to-patient ratio, primary care availability, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources – provides a comprehensive view of the healthcare landscape in Ohatchee. Each factor contributes to the overall health score, with higher scores indicating better access to care, improved health outcomes, and a more robust healthcare system.

Beyond these core elements, other factors can influence the overall health score. These include the presence of specialized medical services, such as cardiology, dermatology, and gastroenterology. The availability of emergency medical services, including ambulance response times and the proximity to hospitals, is also essential. The quality of local hospitals, their accreditation status, and their patient satisfaction scores are also important considerations.

Furthermore, community health initiatives, such as public health campaigns, wellness programs, and health education efforts, can contribute to a higher overall health score. These initiatives can promote healthy lifestyles, prevent chronic diseases, and improve the overall well-being of the community. The presence of community health centers, free clinics, and other resources for underserved populations is also a positive factor.

The overall health score should not be viewed as a static metric. It should be regularly assessed and updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. This ongoing monitoring can inform healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members about areas of strength and weakness, allowing for targeted interventions and improvements.

The analysis concludes that Ohatchee's health landscape presents both opportunities and challenges. While specific data on physician-to-patient ratios and primary care availability is critical for a precise score, the presence of telemedicine adoption and the potential for mental health resources suggest a positive trajectory. Further investigation into the specific practices, their services, and their integration of technology is necessary to refine the overall health score.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Ohatchee, Alabama, including the location of healthcare providers, the availability of services, and other relevant data, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps.