36446, Fulton, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 36446, Fulton, Alabama is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.34 percent of the residents in 36446 has some form of health insurance. 36.14 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.94 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 36446 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 155 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36446. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 48 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 138 health care providers accessible to residents in 36446, Fulton, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 36446 & Primary Care Availability in Fulton

This analysis provides an assessment of the overall health landscape within ZIP code 36446 (likely encompassing the city of Evergreen, Alabama) and a comparison with primary care availability in Fulton, a city in Georgia. The goal is to determine an “Overall Health Score” for each area, considering factors like physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption rates, and the availability of mental health resources. A direct, numerical score is difficult to assign without access to comprehensive, real-time data. Instead, this analysis will offer a comparative assessment, highlighting strengths and weaknesses within each region.

**ZIP Code 36446 (Evergreen, Alabama) – Health Landscape**

The health of a community is intrinsically linked to the availability and quality of its healthcare providers. In ZIP code 36446, the primary concern is likely the relative scarcity of physicians, particularly primary care physicians (PCPs). Rural areas, such as Evergreen, often face challenges in attracting and retaining medical professionals. This can lead to a higher physician-to-patient ratio, meaning each doctor is responsible for a larger patient population. This can translate to longer wait times for appointments, less time spent with each patient, and potentially, a decline in preventative care.

The presence of any standout practices within 36446 would be a significant positive factor. These practices, perhaps offering specialized services or demonstrating exceptional patient care, can act as beacons of quality, attracting patients from surrounding areas. The size and scope of these practices are important. Are they solo practices, or do they have a team of physicians, nurses, and support staff? Larger practices often have the resources to offer a wider range of services and implement more advanced technologies.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical aspect. Telemedicine, the use of technology to provide healthcare remotely, can be particularly beneficial in rural areas. It can bridge the geographical gap, allowing patients to access specialists and receive consultations without the need for extensive travel. The level of telemedicine integration within practices in 36446 would be a significant indicator of the community’s overall health score. Are doctors offering virtual appointments? Are they utilizing remote monitoring technologies?

Mental health resources are essential for overall well-being. The availability of psychiatrists, therapists, and counseling services within the ZIP code is a key factor. Are there mental health clinics? Do primary care physicians offer integrated mental health services? The presence of support groups and community outreach programs also contributes to a stronger mental health infrastructure. The lack of these resources would negatively impact the overall health score.

**Primary Care Availability in Fulton, Georgia – A Comparative Analysis**

Fulton, being a more urbanized area, likely presents a different picture regarding primary care availability. Generally, urban areas tend to have a higher concentration of healthcare providers. This translates to a lower physician-to-patient ratio, potentially leading to easier access to care and shorter wait times. However, even in urban environments, disparities can exist. Access to care can be influenced by factors such as insurance coverage, socioeconomic status, and transportation limitations.

The presence of large hospital systems and medical centers in Fulton would be a significant advantage. These institutions often have extensive networks of primary care physicians, specialists, and support staff, creating a more comprehensive healthcare ecosystem. The reputation and quality of these institutions would significantly impact the overall health score.

Telemedicine adoption in Fulton might be more advanced than in 36446. Urban areas often have better infrastructure and access to technology, which can facilitate the implementation of telemedicine services. The degree to which primary care practices offer virtual appointments, remote monitoring, and other telehealth options would be a key indicator.

Mental health resources in Fulton are likely more abundant than in a rural setting. The presence of psychiatric hospitals, outpatient clinics, and a wider range of mental health professionals would contribute to a higher overall health score. The availability of support groups, community programs, and mental health services integrated into primary care practices are also important considerations.

**Comparative Assessment and Conclusion**

Without access to granular, real-time data, a precise numerical score is impossible. However, based on general assumptions, a few conclusions can be drawn. ZIP code 36446, being a rural area, likely faces challenges regarding physician-to-patient ratios and the availability of specialized services. The overall health score in Evergreen would likely be lower than in Fulton, Georgia. Fulton, being a more urbanized area, probably benefits from a higher concentration of healthcare providers, greater access to specialized care, and a more robust mental health infrastructure.

The key factors that would elevate the health score in 36446 include: attracting more physicians, expanding telemedicine adoption, and improving the availability of mental health resources. For Fulton, maintaining access to care, ensuring equitable distribution of resources, and continuing to invest in mental health services would be crucial.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in these areas, consider using a tool like CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of healthcare resources, allowing you to identify areas with limited access to care, analyze physician distribution, and assess the availability of various healthcare services. Explore the potential of CartoChrome maps to visualize and analyze the healthcare landscape in 36446 and Fulton.