36421, Andalusia, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 36421, Andalusia, Alabama is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.27 percent of the residents in 36421 has some form of health insurance. 34.61 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.69 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 36421 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,716 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36421. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,666 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 391 health care providers accessible to residents in 36421, Andalusia, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Andalusia, AL (ZIP Code 36421)

Analyzing the overall health landscape in Andalusia, Alabama (ZIP code 36421) requires a multifaceted approach, considering factors beyond just the presence of doctors. This analysis will delve into primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health resources to formulate an informed "Overall Health Score." This score, while not a single number, will be a composite understanding of the community's access to and quality of healthcare.

The foundation of any health assessment is primary care access. Andalusia, like many rural communities, faces challenges in this area. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) directly impacts the health of the population. A shortage can lead to delayed diagnoses, poorer management of chronic conditions, and increased reliance on emergency room services. The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial metric. The national average provides a benchmark for comparison. A significantly higher ratio in Andalusia suggests a potential shortage, placing a strain on existing physicians and potentially limiting patient access.

The specific number of PCPs within the 36421 ZIP code, coupled with the total population, will determine the physician-to-patient ratio. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or state medical boards is essential to establish this ratio. This data will be the cornerstone of the primary care availability assessment. Furthermore, the distribution of these physicians is important. Are they concentrated in a single clinic or hospital, or are they spread throughout the community, making access easier for residents in different areas of the ZIP code?

Beyond the raw numbers, the characteristics of the primary care practices themselves play a significant role. Are the practices accepting new patients? What is the average wait time for an appointment? Do they offer extended hours or weekend availability? These factors directly impact the convenience and accessibility of care. The presence of specialized services within primary care practices, such as on-site lab testing or chronic disease management programs, can also enhance the overall health score.

Standout practices within Andalusia deserve specific attention. Identifying practices known for their patient-centered care, innovative approaches, or positive patient outcomes is critical. This requires gathering information from various sources, including patient reviews, physician ratings, and community feedback. These practices can serve as models for best practices and highlight areas where other providers can improve. Recognizing these practices helps to paint a more nuanced picture of the healthcare landscape.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial element in assessing the health score. The ability to access healthcare remotely, particularly for follow-up appointments, medication management, and consultations, can significantly improve access, especially for those in rural areas with limited transportation options. The extent of telemedicine integration within Andalusia's primary care practices, including the types of services offered and the technology used, will be evaluated. A higher level of telemedicine adoption generally contributes to a better health score.

Mental health resources are a vital component of overall well-being. The availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is a key indicator of community health. Assessing the number of mental health providers within the 36421 ZIP code, along with their accessibility and affordability, is essential. Do primary care practices offer integrated behavioral health services? Are there community mental health centers or support groups available? The presence of these resources directly impacts the health score.

Furthermore, the integration between primary care and mental health services is crucial. Coordinated care, where primary care physicians and mental health professionals collaborate, can lead to better outcomes for patients with both physical and mental health needs. The level of collaboration and referral pathways between these two areas of care will be considered.

The presence of other healthcare facilities, such as hospitals, urgent care clinics, and specialty practices, also contributes to the overall health score. The proximity of these facilities, their services offered, and their accessibility are all important factors. The availability of specialized care, such as cardiology or oncology, can impact the health score, particularly for those with chronic conditions.

The affordability of healthcare is another crucial consideration. The cost of care, including insurance premiums, co-pays, and the cost of medications, can significantly impact access to care. Assessing the affordability of healthcare in Andalusia, including the availability of financial assistance programs and the prevalence of uninsured residents, will be part of the overall assessment.

The demographics of the population in Andalusia also play a role. Factors such as age, socioeconomic status, and the prevalence of chronic diseases can influence the healthcare needs of the community. Understanding the specific needs of the population allows for a more targeted and effective assessment of the health landscape.

The overall health score for Andalusia, AL (ZIP code 36421) is not a single, definitive number. It is a composite assessment based on the factors discussed above. The physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of primary care, the characteristics of practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the affordability of care all contribute to the final evaluation. The health score will reflect the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in Andalusia.

This analysis requires a comprehensive data-gathering process. Publicly available data, community feedback, and insights from healthcare professionals are all essential to forming an accurate picture of the healthcare landscape in Andalusia. The final assessment will provide a valuable understanding of the community's access to and quality of healthcare.