36444, Franklin, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 36444, Franklin, Alabama is 12 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.50 percent of the residents in 36444 has some form of health insurance. 56.66 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 46.40 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 36444 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 80 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36444. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 156 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 225 health care providers accessible to residents in 36444, Franklin, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 36444 & Primary Care Availability in Franklin

This analysis evaluates the overall health landscape within ZIP Code 36444, focusing on physician availability and primary care resources, and then broadens the scope to consider the broader Franklin area. The goal is to provide an informed assessment of the healthcare environment, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement.

ZIP Code 36444, encompassing the town of Castleberry, Alabama, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities in terms of healthcare access. A critical factor is the physician-to-patient ratio. In rural areas, this ratio often lags behind national averages, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments, increased travel distances for specialized care, and a heavier burden on existing medical professionals. Determining the exact ratio requires accessing current data from sources like the Alabama Department of Public Health or the American Medical Association, which would be crucial for a precise evaluation. However, based on general trends, it is reasonable to anticipate a lower physician density compared to more urbanized regions.

Primary care availability is a cornerstone of a healthy community. It serves as the first point of contact for medical needs, offering preventative care, chronic disease management, and referrals to specialists. The presence of a robust primary care network is essential for maintaining overall population health. Assessing this involves identifying the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) practicing within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas. This includes family medicine doctors, internal medicine physicians, and pediatricians. Further investigation into the acceptance of new patients by these practices is crucial. Are appointments readily available, or are patients facing significant delays? The accessibility of primary care directly impacts the ability of residents to proactively manage their health.

Standout practices within 36444 and Franklin, if any, would be those demonstrating a commitment to patient-centered care, technological integration, and community outreach. This could include practices that have received positive patient reviews, offer extended hours, or provide specialized services. Identifying these practices involves reviewing online resources, such as patient portals, and considering their reputation within the local community. The presence of a well-regarded practice can significantly improve the health outcomes of the population.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas where geographical barriers can limit access to care. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with doctors remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to specialized care. Evaluating telemedicine adoption involves determining which practices offer telehealth services, the types of services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), and the ease of use for patients. Practices that embrace telemedicine are better positioned to serve a wider patient base and improve health outcomes.

Mental health resources are a critical component of overall health. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is essential for addressing the growing prevalence of mental health disorders. Assessing mental health resources involves identifying the number of mental health providers in the area, the types of services they offer, and the availability of appointments. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health professionals is also crucial for providing integrated care. Mental health is often under-addressed in rural areas, so the availability of these resources is of particular importance.

Expanding the scope to the broader Franklin area, which may include surrounding towns and counties, provides a more comprehensive view of healthcare access. This involves considering the availability of hospitals, urgent care centers, and specialized medical facilities. Access to emergency services is particularly important in rural areas, where travel times to hospitals can be significant. The presence of a well-equipped hospital and accessible emergency services can significantly improve health outcomes in the event of a medical crisis.

Analyzing the insurance landscape is also crucial. The acceptance of various insurance plans by local healthcare providers impacts access to care. A high concentration of uninsured or underinsured individuals can create barriers to healthcare, leading to delayed treatment and poorer health outcomes. Understanding the insurance coverage rates and the acceptance of different insurance plans by local providers is essential for a comprehensive health assessment.

The availability of community health programs and resources can significantly improve the overall health of the population. This includes programs focused on preventative care, chronic disease management, and health education. Identifying these programs and assessing their reach and impact is essential for understanding the health landscape. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government is crucial for developing and implementing effective health programs.

Addressing any identified shortcomings requires a multi-faceted approach. This may involve recruiting more healthcare professionals to the area, expanding telemedicine services, and increasing the availability of mental health resources. Improving access to transportation for medical appointments is also important, especially for individuals who lack reliable transportation. Community outreach programs can help educate residents about available healthcare resources and encourage preventative care.

The health landscape in ZIP Code 36444 and the broader Franklin area is complex and requires a detailed, data-driven assessment. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the key factors that influence health outcomes, including physician availability, primary care resources, telemedicine adoption, and mental health services. Further investigation, including the collection of specific data, is needed to provide a more definitive assessment and identify areas for improvement.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in ZIP Code 36444 and the surrounding areas, including the locations of physicians, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a clear and concise overview of healthcare access, allowing you to visualize the distribution of resources and identify areas with limited access.