36474, Red Level, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 36474, Red Level, Alabama is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.30 percent of the residents in 36474 has some form of health insurance. 44.56 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.64 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 36474 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 605 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36474. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 503 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 32 health care providers accessible to residents in 36474, Red Level, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 36474 and Primary Care Availability in Red Level

This analysis delves into the overall health landscape of ZIP Code 36474, encompassing the town of Red Level, Alabama, with a focus on primary care availability and the broader healthcare ecosystem. We will assess various factors to arrive at an informed understanding of the area's health status, including physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview and highlight key areas of strength and weakness.

The cornerstone of any healthy community is accessible primary care. In Red Level, a rural community within ZIP Code 36474, the availability of primary care physicians is a critical determinant of overall health. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio offers a baseline understanding. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, suggests potential challenges in accessing timely medical attention. This can lead to delayed diagnoses, exacerbation of chronic conditions, and increased reliance on emergency services.

The specific physician-to-patient ratio within ZIP Code 36474 requires investigation. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) or state health departments can provide this information. However, it is important to consider that these figures may not always accurately reflect the reality on the ground. Factors such as physician specialization, patient demographics (including age and chronic disease prevalence), and the presence of underserved populations can significantly influence the true accessibility of primary care.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality and distribution of primary care practices are essential. Identifying standout practices involves evaluating factors such as patient satisfaction, the range of services offered, and the adoption of innovative technologies. Practices that embrace electronic health records (EHRs), patient portals, and other digital tools often demonstrate a commitment to efficiency and improved patient care.

Furthermore, the presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or other community health clinics can significantly enhance primary care access, particularly for low-income and uninsured populations. These clinics often provide comprehensive services, including preventive care, chronic disease management, and behavioral health services, at affordable rates. The existence and accessibility of such resources are crucial in evaluating the overall health score.

Telemedicine adoption represents a significant trend in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas like Red Level. Telemedicine offers the potential to overcome geographical barriers, allowing patients to access medical consultations and follow-up care remotely. The availability of telemedicine services within ZIP Code 36474 is therefore a key indicator of the healthcare system's responsiveness to the needs of its population.

Assessing telemedicine adoption involves identifying practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and other telehealth services. The level of patient utilization of these services is also a critical factor. Barriers to telemedicine adoption, such as lack of internet access, limited digital literacy, and concerns about data privacy, must also be considered.

Mental health resources are an integral component of overall health. The availability of mental health services within ZIP Code 36474 is a crucial factor in the overall health score. This includes the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and other mental health professionals. The availability of mental health services can be assessed by examining the number of mental health providers, the types of services offered (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), and the accessibility of these services (e.g., wait times, insurance acceptance).

The integration of mental health services into primary care settings is another important consideration. Co-locating mental health professionals within primary care practices can improve access to care and reduce the stigma associated with mental illness. The presence of support groups, crisis hotlines, and other community-based mental health resources also contributes to a stronger mental health infrastructure.

Furthermore, the prevalence of chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and obesity, requires specific attention. These conditions often place a significant burden on the healthcare system and can be exacerbated by limited access to primary care and preventive services. Analyzing the prevalence of these diseases within ZIP Code 36474 provides insights into the specific health challenges facing the community.

Data on chronic disease prevalence can be obtained from sources such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and state health departments. Understanding the risk factors associated with these diseases, such as poor diet, lack of physical activity, and tobacco use, is crucial for developing effective prevention and intervention strategies.

The overall health score for ZIP Code 36474 and Red Level is ultimately a composite measure that considers all of the factors discussed above. The specific weighting of each factor will depend on the priorities and values of the assessment. For instance, if primary care access is deemed the most critical factor, it might be given a higher weight in the overall score.

A comprehensive analysis would involve gathering data from multiple sources, including public health agencies, healthcare providers, and community organizations. It would also involve conducting interviews with healthcare professionals, patients, and community members to gain a deeper understanding of the lived experiences of those in the area.

The final health score should be accompanied by recommendations for improvement. These recommendations might include strategies for increasing the number of primary care physicians, expanding telemedicine services, improving access to mental health resources, and implementing public health programs to address chronic disease.

In conclusion, assessing the overall health of ZIP Code 36474 and Red Level requires a multifaceted approach that considers physician-to-patient ratios, the quality and distribution of primary care practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the prevalence of chronic diseases. A thorough understanding of these factors is essential for developing effective strategies to improve the health and well-being of the community.

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