36432, Castleberry, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 36432, Castleberry, Alabama is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.69 percent of the residents in 36432 has some form of health insurance. 45.20 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.12 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 36432 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 324 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36432. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 536 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 235 health care providers accessible to residents in 36432, Castleberry, Alabama.

**Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 36432 and Primary Care Availability in Castleberry**

Assessing the overall health landscape within ZIP code 36432, encompassing the town of Castleberry, Alabama, requires a multifaceted evaluation. This analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption rates, and the availability of mental health resources. A comprehensive understanding of these factors will contribute to a more informed 'Overall Health Score' for this specific geographic area.

One of the primary indicators of healthcare access is the physician-to-patient ratio. Determining this ratio accurately necessitates identifying the total number of practicing physicians, specifically primary care physicians (PCPs), within the ZIP code and dividing it by the population. Data from the U.S. Census Bureau estimates the population of Castleberry and the surrounding area. Locating the exact number of practicing physicians requires consulting databases of licensed medical professionals, such as those maintained by the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners or commercial healthcare directories. A low physician-to-patient ratio, indicating a shortage of doctors, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially poorer health outcomes. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests better access to care.

The presence of standout medical practices significantly impacts the quality of healthcare. These practices are often characterized by a commitment to patient-centered care, advanced medical technologies, and a focus on positive patient outcomes. Identifying these practices involves analyzing online reviews, patient testimonials, and professional awards or recognitions. The scope of services offered, the expertise of the medical staff, and the availability of specialized care are all critical factors. Practices that offer comprehensive services, including preventative care, chronic disease management, and specialized treatments, contribute positively to the overall health score.

Telemedicine adoption, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, is becoming increasingly important, especially in rural areas like Castleberry. Telemedicine can improve access to care by reducing the need for travel, particularly for patients with mobility issues or those living in remote locations. Assessing telemedicine adoption rates involves determining which practices offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and other telehealth services. The availability of reliable internet access in the area is also a crucial factor, as it directly impacts the feasibility of telemedicine. Practices that have embraced telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to innovation and patient convenience, enhancing the overall health score.

Mental health resources are an essential component of overall health. The availability of mental health services, including psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors, is crucial for addressing mental health issues and promoting well-being. Evaluating mental health resources involves identifying the number of mental health professionals practicing in the area, the types of services offered (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), and the accessibility of these services (e.g., insurance acceptance, wait times). The presence of community mental health centers, support groups, and crisis intervention services also positively impacts the overall health score. Areas with limited access to mental health services often experience poorer health outcomes and higher rates of mental health-related issues.

The overall health score for ZIP code 36432 and primary care availability in Castleberry is a composite metric reflecting the factors discussed above. A high score indicates good access to care, a sufficient number of physicians, the presence of high-quality practices, robust telemedicine adoption, and readily available mental health resources. Conversely, a low score suggests challenges in accessing care, a shortage of physicians, limited telemedicine options, and inadequate mental health resources. The specific score will depend on the data collected and the weighting assigned to each factor.

To enhance the accuracy of this analysis, it is essential to consider demographic data, such as the age distribution of the population, the prevalence of chronic diseases, and socioeconomic factors. These factors can influence healthcare needs and utilization patterns. For instance, an older population may require more geriatric care, while a population with a high prevalence of diabetes may need increased access to endocrinologists and diabetes education programs.

Furthermore, it is important to consider the healthcare infrastructure, including hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies, within and near ZIP code 36432. The availability of these facilities, their capacity, and the range of services they offer contribute to the overall healthcare ecosystem. Proximity to larger medical centers in nearby cities, such as Mobile or Montgomery, can also impact healthcare access for residents of Castleberry.

In conclusion, assessing the overall health score for doctors in ZIP code 36432 and primary care availability in Castleberry requires a detailed analysis of physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. A comprehensive evaluation, incorporating demographic data, healthcare infrastructure, and proximity to larger medical centers, will provide a more accurate and insightful assessment. This comprehensive approach is crucial for understanding the healthcare landscape and identifying areas for improvement to ensure that residents of Castleberry have access to the care they need to live healthy lives.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Castleberry and surrounding areas, including physician locations, hospital locations, and other relevant data, explore the power of CartoChrome maps.