36538, Frankville, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 36538, Frankville, Alabama is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 63.91 percent of the residents in 36538 has some form of health insurance. 41.60 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 39.67 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 36538 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 53 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36538. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 68 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 156 health care providers accessible to residents in 36538, Frankville, Alabama.

**Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors and Primary Care in Frankville, AL (ZIP Code 36538)**

Assessing the overall health landscape within Frankville, Alabama, specifically focusing on the availability and quality of primary care, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' for residents, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem.

Frankville, Alabama, located within ZIP code 36538, is a rural community. This geographical context significantly influences healthcare access. The population density is relatively low, which inherently impacts the distribution of healthcare providers. One of the most critical factors in evaluating health access is the physician-to-patient ratio. While precise, up-to-the-minute figures fluctuate, understanding the general landscape is crucial. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, often translates to longer wait times for appointments, increased travel distances to see a doctor, and potentially, reduced access to specialized care. Data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and the Alabama Department of Public Health would be essential to establish a baseline physician-to-patient ratio for the area. This ratio then needs to be compared to state and national averages to determine if Frankville faces a shortage or has a relatively adequate supply of primary care physicians.

Identifying standout practices within Frankville is another key aspect of the analysis. This involves evaluating the quality of care provided by existing medical facilities. Factors to consider include the accreditation status of hospitals and clinics, patient satisfaction scores (gleaned from surveys and online reviews, where available), the range of services offered (e.g., preventative care, chronic disease management), and the adoption of advanced technologies. For example, a practice that has embraced electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals likely offers better care coordination and communication. Furthermore, the presence of specialists who regularly visit the area or have established referral networks to nearby cities would enhance the overall health score. Researching the specific practices and their offerings is essential.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to access healthcare services remotely. This can include virtual consultations, remote monitoring of chronic conditions, and access to specialists who may not be available locally. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption in Frankville involves determining which practices offer telehealth services, the types of services offered (e.g., primary care visits, mental health counseling), and the availability of technology support for patients. Practices actively utilizing telemedicine would contribute positively to the overall health score, reflecting a commitment to expanding access and improving convenience for patients.

Mental health resources are a critical component of overall health. The availability of mental health services in Frankville needs careful consideration. This includes assessing the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors. The existence of mental health clinics, support groups, and partnerships with local schools and community organizations also matters. The ability to access mental health services locally is especially important in rural areas, where mental health challenges can be exacerbated by factors such as social isolation, economic hardship, and limited access to support. A robust mental health infrastructure would significantly enhance the overall health score.

Further, the analysis should also include the availability of preventative care services, such as routine check-ups, vaccinations, and screenings. Access to these services can help prevent disease and improve overall health outcomes. The presence of community health programs, such as health education initiatives and chronic disease management programs, also contributes to a positive overall health score.

Finally, the overall health score is not a static number. It’s a dynamic assessment reflecting the current state of healthcare access and quality. The score would be derived by weighting the various factors discussed above. The weighting process should consider the relative importance of each factor. For example, the physician-to-patient ratio might be weighted more heavily than the availability of a specific type of specialist, particularly if the ratio indicates a significant shortage of primary care physicians. The final score would then be presented, along with a summary of the key findings and recommendations for improvement.

To visualize the health landscape of Frankville and the surrounding areas, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of the location of healthcare providers, the distribution of the population, and other relevant data points. This allows for a more comprehensive understanding of healthcare access and can help identify areas where resources are needed most.