36343, Gordon, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 36343, Gordon, Alabama is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.23 percent of the residents in 36343 has some form of health insurance. 48.85 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.46 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 36343 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 205 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36343. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 299 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,091 health care providers accessible to residents in 36343, Gordon, Alabama.

**Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 36343 and Primary Care Availability in Gordon, Alabama**

Analyzing the overall health landscape within ZIP code 36343, encompassing the town of Gordon, Alabama, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The aim is to provide a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' assessment, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare ecosystem within this specific geographical area.

The foundation of any health assessment lies in the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Gordon, the number of PCPs relative to the population is a critical indicator. The physician-to-patient ratio provides a crucial metric. A high ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can translate into longer wait times for appointments, limited access to care, and potential difficulties in establishing a strong patient-physician relationship. Conversely, a lower ratio, suggesting a greater availability of PCPs, generally indicates better access to care and improved health outcomes. Accurately determining this ratio requires data from various sources, including the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners, insurance provider networks, and local healthcare directories.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality and reputation of existing practices play a significant role. Identifying standout practices involves evaluating factors such as patient satisfaction scores, the range of services offered, and the adoption of modern technologies. Practices that consistently receive high ratings from patients, demonstrate a commitment to preventative care, and utilize electronic health records (EHRs) are likely to be considered superior. The presence of specialized services, such as chronic disease management programs or geriatric care, can further enhance the attractiveness of a practice. Furthermore, the ability of a practice to coordinate care across different specialties is a key factor in overall health quality.

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant force in healthcare, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption in Gordon can be a major determinant of the 'Overall Health Score'. The availability of telehealth services can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues, transportation challenges, or those living in remote locations. Evaluating telemedicine adoption involves assessing the number of practices offering virtual consultations, the types of services available remotely (e.g., follow-up appointments, medication management), and the ease of use of the telehealth platforms. Practices that proactively embrace telemedicine are likely to enhance their accessibility and patient convenience.

Mental health resources are an integral part of overall health. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed counselors, is crucial. Assessing the mental health landscape involves examining the number of mental health providers, the types of services offered (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), and the accessibility of these services. Factors such as insurance coverage, wait times for appointments, and the availability of crisis intervention services are also important considerations. The presence of support groups, community mental health centers, and partnerships with local schools or organizations can further strengthen the mental health infrastructure.

The 'Overall Health Score' for Gordon must consider the demographic characteristics of the population. Factors such as age distribution, socioeconomic status, and the prevalence of chronic diseases can influence healthcare needs and resource utilization. For example, an aging population may require more geriatric care services, while a population with a high prevalence of diabetes may benefit from specialized diabetes management programs. Understanding these demographic factors is essential for a comprehensive health assessment.

The physical infrastructure of the healthcare system also impacts the 'Overall Health Score'. The presence of hospitals, urgent care centers, and pharmacies within or near ZIP code 36343 is a significant factor. The proximity of these facilities, their hours of operation, and the range of services they offer can directly affect access to care. The availability of emergency medical services (EMS) and the response times of ambulances are also critical considerations.

Moreover, the level of health literacy within the community is an important factor. Health literacy refers to the ability of individuals to obtain, process, and understand basic health information and services needed to make appropriate health decisions. Communities with higher health literacy levels tend to have better health outcomes. Assessing health literacy involves evaluating the availability of health education programs, the clarity of health information materials, and the accessibility of health resources in multiple languages.

The regulatory environment and the presence of healthcare partnerships can also influence the 'Overall Health Score'. The state and federal regulations that govern healthcare, the accreditation of healthcare facilities, and the enforcement of quality standards are all relevant. Furthermore, the existence of partnerships between healthcare providers, hospitals, and community organizations can facilitate care coordination and improve health outcomes.

Finally, the 'Overall Health Score' should be a dynamic measure, reflecting the changing healthcare landscape. Regular updates and revisions are necessary to account for new developments, such as the opening of new practices, the adoption of new technologies, and changes in the demographics of the population. This requires continuous monitoring and evaluation of the healthcare ecosystem.

In conclusion, assessing the 'Overall Health Score' for doctors in ZIP code 36343 and primary care availability in Gordon requires a comprehensive analysis of physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of existing practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the demographic characteristics of the population. A thorough evaluation of these factors, coupled with an understanding of the healthcare infrastructure, health literacy, and regulatory environment, is essential for a meaningful assessment.

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