36558, Millry, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 36558, Millry, Alabama is 9 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.38 percent of the residents in 36558 has some form of health insurance. 42.25 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.84 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 36558 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 976 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36558. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 723 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 72 health care providers accessible to residents in 36558, Millry, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Millry, Alabama (ZIP Code 36558)

Analyzing the overall health landscape for residents of Millry, Alabama (ZIP Code 36558) requires a multifaceted approach, considering both the availability of primary care physicians and the broader health resources accessible within and around the community. This analysis will delve into the physician-to-patient ratios, highlight any standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and examine the availability of mental health resources. The ultimate goal is to provide an informed 'Overall Health Score' assessment, reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare ecosystem in Millry.

The foundation of any health assessment begins with the availability of primary care physicians. In Millry, a rural community, the physician-to-patient ratio is likely a significant factor. Rural areas often face a shortage of healthcare professionals, leading to longer wait times for appointments and potentially limited access to preventative care. Determining the exact ratio for 36558 requires accessing specific data from sources such as the US Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) or state medical boards. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, would negatively impact the overall health score.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality and accessibility of existing primary care practices are crucial. Are there practices accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate diverse schedules? Do they accept a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicaid and Medicare, which are often critical for residents in rural communities? These factors significantly influence the ability of residents to access timely and affordable healthcare. The existence of a well-established, patient-centered primary care practice, even with a potentially unfavorable physician-to-patient ratio, could partially mitigate some of the negative effects.

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating their commitment to patient care, their use of technology, and their integration within the broader community. Do any practices in Millry or the surrounding areas have a strong reputation for patient satisfaction? Are they actively involved in community outreach programs, such as health screenings or educational initiatives? These indicators suggest a commitment to holistic patient care, which would positively influence the overall health score.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. In rural areas, telemedicine can bridge the geographical gap, providing access to specialists and healthcare services that might otherwise be unavailable. The extent to which primary care practices in 36558 have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and other telehealth services, is a key consideration. High adoption rates would improve the overall health score, particularly for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges.

Mental health resources are a vital component of overall health. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed therapists, is essential. Does Millry have any local mental health clinics or does the community rely on services in nearby towns or cities? Are there support groups or other community-based mental health resources available? Limited access to mental health services would significantly detract from the overall health score, as mental health challenges can negatively impact physical health and overall well-being.

Furthermore, the availability of specialized healthcare services should be considered. While primary care is the cornerstone, access to specialists, such as cardiologists, endocrinologists, and other medical professionals, is also important. Residents of Millry may need to travel to larger cities for specialized care. The distance and ease of travel to these specialists, as well as the availability of transportation assistance programs, should be factored into the assessment.

The overall health score for Millry, Alabama (36558) is likely to be influenced by the interplay of these factors. A high score would indicate a community with a reasonable physician-to-patient ratio, accessible and patient-centered primary care practices, widespread telemedicine adoption, and readily available mental health resources. Conversely, a low score would reflect a community facing challenges in accessing primary care, limited telemedicine adoption, and inadequate mental health support.

The final score would be a composite, weighing each of these factors based on their relative importance. For instance, the physician-to-patient ratio might be given a higher weight due to its fundamental impact on access to care. The availability of mental health resources could also be given a significant weight, given its importance for overall well-being.

In conclusion, evaluating the overall health of Millry requires a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare landscape. The physician-to-patient ratio, the quality and accessibility of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources are all critical factors. By carefully assessing these elements, a meaningful 'Overall Health Score' can be derived, providing valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare ecosystem in this rural Alabama community.

To visualize and analyze the health landscape of Millry and surrounding areas with greater detail, consider using CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and other relevant data, allowing for a deeper understanding of the healthcare access challenges and opportunities within the community.