36312, Ashford, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 36312, Ashford, Alabama is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.19 percent of the residents in 36312 has some form of health insurance. 42.79 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.02 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 36312 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,429 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36312. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,263 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,470 health care providers accessible to residents in 36312, Ashford, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Ashford, Alabama (ZIP Code 36312)

Assessing the overall health landscape of Ashford, Alabama, specifically within the 36312 ZIP code, necessitates a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers key indicators such as physician availability, healthcare practice quality, integration of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The ultimate goal is to provide an informed 'Overall Health Score' that reflects the community's current state and identifies areas for potential improvement.

One of the most fundamental aspects of healthcare access is the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and a generally strained healthcare system. While precise, real-time data on physician-to-patient ratios is constantly fluctuating, and often proprietary, publicly available information can offer valuable insights. We can gather data from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to determine the number of physicians, specialists, and primary care providers actively serving the population within the 36312 ZIP code. This data, compared against the estimated population of Ashford, allows for a preliminary assessment of the physician-to-patient ratio.

The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is particularly critical. PCPs serve as the entry point to the healthcare system, providing routine checkups, managing chronic conditions, and coordinating referrals to specialists when necessary. The concentration of PCPs within the 36312 ZIP code, compared to the surrounding areas, is an important factor. Areas with a shortage of PCPs may see residents seeking care in emergency rooms, which can be a more expensive and less effective approach to healthcare.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of care provided by existing practices is paramount. This involves evaluating factors such as patient satisfaction, the use of evidence-based practices, and the adoption of modern technologies. Publicly available resources, such as patient reviews on platforms like Healthgrades and Vitals, can offer a glimpse into patient experiences. However, it's essential to recognize the limitations of these reviews, as they may not always be representative of the entire patient population. Further, we can assess the accreditation status of local hospitals and clinics, as accreditation by organizations like The Joint Commission often indicates a commitment to quality standards.

The adoption of telemedicine is another critical element. Telemedicine, or the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, has the potential to significantly improve access to care, especially for individuals in rural areas like Ashford. Telemedicine can reduce travel time, make it easier to connect with specialists, and improve the management of chronic conditions. We can investigate which local practices offer telemedicine services, the types of services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), and the level of patient adoption.

Mental health resources are an essential component of overall health. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is crucial for addressing mental health needs within the community. We can assess the number of mental health providers in the 36312 ZIP code, as well as the availability of support groups, counseling services, and crisis intervention resources. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices is also a positive indicator, as it can help to reduce the stigma associated with mental illness and improve access to care.

Standout practices within the 36312 ZIP code should be identified and highlighted. These practices may be recognized for their commitment to patient-centered care, their use of innovative technologies, or their strong community involvement. Examples of standout practices may include those that have achieved high patient satisfaction scores, those that have implemented robust telemedicine programs, or those that have actively participated in community health initiatives. Identifying these practices can help to showcase best practices and encourage other providers to improve their services.

A comprehensive analysis would also consider the demographics of the population served by these healthcare providers. Factors such as age, socioeconomic status, and ethnicity can influence healthcare needs and access. Understanding the demographic profile of Ashford helps to tailor healthcare services to the specific needs of the community.

Based on the data collected and analyzed, an 'Overall Health Score' can be assigned to the 36312 ZIP code. This score should reflect the community's strengths and weaknesses in terms of healthcare access, quality, and resources. The score should be accompanied by specific recommendations for improvement, such as increasing the number of PCPs, expanding telemedicine services, or improving access to mental health resources.

In conclusion, assessing the health landscape of Ashford, Alabama, requires a careful examination of physician availability, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. By gathering and analyzing this data, we can create an 'Overall Health Score' that reflects the community's current state and provides a roadmap for future improvement.

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