36301, Dothan, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 36301, Dothan, Alabama is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.56 percent of the residents in 36301 has some form of health insurance. 42.97 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.55 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 36301 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 8,997 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36301. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 6,471 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,443 health care providers accessible to residents in 36301, Dothan, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 36301 and Primary Care Availability in Dothan

Analyzing the overall health landscape in Dothan, Alabama, specifically focusing on the doctors within ZIP code 36301 and the broader primary care availability, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and evaluate the presence of mental health resources. Ultimately, we aim to provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" assessment for this specific geographical area.

The foundation of any health score begins with access to care, and a critical metric for this is the physician-to-patient ratio. In Dothan, and particularly within ZIP code 36301, this ratio is a crucial indicator. While precise, publicly available data for this specific ZIP code is often limited, broader county-level data from sources like the Alabama Department of Public Health and the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) provides a valuable starting point. Examining these sources will reveal the number of primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare providers serving the population. Comparing this number to the estimated population within 36301 allows for the calculation of a physician-to-patient ratio. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, suggests potential challenges in accessing timely and convenient care. This directly impacts the overall health score, as it can lead to delayed diagnoses, preventative care neglect, and increased emergency room visits.

Beyond raw numbers, the distribution of physicians within the area is also essential. Are primary care physicians concentrated in certain areas, leaving others underserved? Are there enough specialists to meet the needs of the population, or do patients have to travel significant distances for specialized care? These factors contribute significantly to the overall health score. Analyzing the geographic distribution of providers, using publicly available data or through surveys, provides a more nuanced understanding of access.

Identifying standout practices is vital for a comprehensive assessment. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, utilize innovative technologies, and achieve positive health outcomes should be recognized. This requires looking beyond the basic metrics. Examining patient reviews, assessing the range of services offered, and evaluating the practice's adherence to evidence-based guidelines are crucial. Some practices might excel in chronic disease management, while others might be leaders in preventative care. These strengths, and any weaknesses, contribute to the overall health score.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The ability to access healthcare remotely has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas or for individuals with mobility limitations. The degree to which doctors in 36301 have embraced telemedicine, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, significantly impacts the overall health score. Practices that offer robust telemedicine options demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and accessibility. Conversely, a lack of telemedicine adoption may indicate a missed opportunity to improve access to care, especially for those with transportation challenges or living in remote areas.

Mental health resources are an integral part of overall health. The availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors, within 36301 is a critical indicator. Assessing the number of mental health providers, their accessibility, and the types of services they offer (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management) contributes significantly to the overall health score. Furthermore, the integration of mental health services into primary care settings is a positive indicator. This integrated approach can improve access to mental health care and reduce the stigma associated with mental illness. The presence of support groups, community mental health centers, and crisis intervention services further strengthens the mental health infrastructure and contributes to a higher overall health score.

The overall health score is not a static number. It is a dynamic assessment that reflects the interplay of various factors. It considers the physician-to-patient ratio, the distribution of healthcare providers, the quality of care provided by standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. Each of these elements contributes to the overall health score, and their relative importance can vary depending on the specific needs of the community.

For example, a high physician-to-patient ratio might be partially offset by robust telemedicine adoption and a strong network of mental health providers. Conversely, a low physician-to-patient ratio coupled with limited access to mental health services and a lack of telemedicine options would significantly lower the overall health score.

The assessment also considers the socioeconomic factors that influence health outcomes. Poverty, lack of education, and limited access to healthy food options can all negatively impact health. These factors are not directly reflected in the health score, but they are considered when interpreting the results.

Ultimately, the overall health score is a tool for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in 36301 and Dothan. It is a starting point for identifying areas for improvement and for developing strategies to enhance the health and well-being of the community. This analysis provides a framework for a more detailed and data-driven assessment.

In conclusion, a thorough understanding of the healthcare landscape in Dothan, specifically within ZIP code 36301, requires a detailed examination of physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. This analysis provides a foundation for a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" assessment, which can be used to identify areas for improvement and inform healthcare planning.

To visualize the geographic distribution of healthcare providers, analyze patient demographics, and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Dothan, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps.