36453, Kinston, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 36453, Kinston, Alabama is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 78.80 percent of the residents in 36453 has some form of health insurance. 41.46 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 54.37 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 36453 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 369 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36453. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 538 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 239 health care providers accessible to residents in 36453, Kinston, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: ZIP Code 36453 and Kinston Primary Care

This analysis delves into the overall health landscape of ZIP Code 36453 and the primary care availability within Kinston, aiming to provide an 'Overall Health Score' assessment. This score, though not a singular numerical value, is derived from a multifaceted evaluation considering physician-to-patient ratios, practice quality, telemedicine integration, and mental health resource accessibility. The goal is to paint a comprehensive picture of healthcare access and quality in these specific areas.

ZIP Code 36453, encompassing the town of Monroeville, Alabama, presents a unique healthcare challenge. Rural communities often grapple with limited resources, and this area is no exception. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A low ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to specialized care, and overall diminished healthcare outcomes. Data acquisition on this ratio requires a comprehensive search of local provider databases and governmental health statistics. Publicly available information from sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) or the Alabama Department of Public Health would be essential. The analysis must compare this ratio to state and national averages to gauge the severity of the potential shortage.

Evaluating the quality of available primary care practices requires a nuanced approach. This involves assessing factors such as the number of board-certified physicians, the range of services offered (e.g., preventative care, chronic disease management), and patient satisfaction scores. Publicly available data on physician board certifications can be found through organizations like the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS). Patient reviews, though sometimes subjective, provide valuable insights into the patient experience. Websites like Healthgrades or Vitals can offer a glimpse into patient satisfaction and practice ratings. The presence of accreditation from reputable organizations, such as the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC), can be a strong indicator of quality.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial aspect of the health score. In rural areas, telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers and expand access to care. The analysis should investigate the availability of telehealth services among local primary care providers. This includes examining whether practices offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, or access to specialists via telehealth platforms. The ease of use of these platforms, the types of services offered (e.g., general checkups, mental health counseling), and the insurance coverage for telehealth visits are all important considerations. The presence of telemedicine can significantly improve the overall health score, particularly in areas with limited physical access to healthcare.

Mental health resources are a critical component of overall well-being, and their availability significantly impacts the health score. The analysis must assess the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed therapists, within the ZIP Code or easily accessible to its residents. This involves examining the number of providers, their specialties, and the types of services they offer (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management). The presence of mental health support groups, crisis hotlines, and partnerships with local hospitals or community organizations also contribute to a higher score. Accessibility to mental health services is often a significant challenge in rural areas, and its presence or absence can heavily influence the overall health score.

Turning to Kinston and its primary care availability, the assessment focuses on the same key indicators. The physician-to-patient ratio in Kinston must be determined through a similar process of data collection and comparison. The availability of primary care physicians, including family medicine doctors and internal medicine specialists, is crucial. The analysis should also examine the distribution of primary care practices within the town, ensuring that access is equitable across different neighborhoods.

The quality of primary care practices in Kinston should be evaluated using the same criteria as for ZIP Code 36453. This includes assessing physician qualifications, service offerings, and patient satisfaction. The presence of specialized services, such as geriatric care or pediatric care, can enhance the health score. The analysis should also investigate the use of electronic health records (EHRs) and other technologies that can improve the efficiency and quality of care.

Telemedicine adoption in Kinston is equally important. The analysis should determine the extent to which primary care practices offer telehealth services, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and access to specialists. The availability of telehealth can improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in areas with limited transportation options.

Mental health resources in Kinston require a detailed assessment. This includes evaluating the availability of mental health professionals, the types of services offered, and the accessibility of these services to the community. The analysis should also examine the presence of mental health support groups, crisis hotlines, and partnerships with local organizations. The availability of mental health services is a critical factor in determining the overall health score for Kinston.

The analysis should also identify any standout practices in both areas. This could include practices with exceptional patient satisfaction scores, innovative use of technology, or a commitment to serving underserved populations. Highlighting these practices can provide valuable insights and serve as examples for other providers.

Ultimately, the 'Overall Health Score' for both ZIP Code 36453 and Kinston is a complex assessment. It is not a simple numerical value but a composite of various factors. The final score will be influenced by the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The analysis should provide a clear picture of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape in each area.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in ZIP Code 36453 and Kinston, including the location of healthcare providers, population density, and other relevant data, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a valuable visual aid for understanding the distribution of healthcare resources and identifying areas with limited access.