36572, Satsuma, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 36572, Satsuma, Alabama is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.22 percent of the residents in 36572 has some form of health insurance. 27.85 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.40 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 36572 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,419 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 83 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36572. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,096 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 12,674 health care providers accessible to residents in 36572, Satsuma, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Satsuma, Alabama (ZIP Code 36572)

Analyzing the overall health landscape of Satsuma, Alabama, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis assesses the availability and quality of primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of innovative healthcare delivery models like telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" for the community, reflecting the current state of healthcare access and quality within the 36572 ZIP code.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times, reduced access to care, and potentially poorer health outcomes. While precise figures fluctuate, it's crucial to investigate the current physician density in Satsuma. Data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or state medical boards can provide valuable insights. This data needs to be compared against national and state averages to gauge Satsuma's relative standing. A significantly lower ratio than the national average would negatively impact the overall health score.

Primary care availability is the cornerstone of a healthy community. This includes the number of general practitioners, family medicine physicians, and internal medicine specialists practicing within the ZIP code or readily accessible to residents. Assessing the number of practices accepting new patients is also vital. Are there enough primary care physicians to meet the community's needs? Are appointments readily available, or are wait times excessive? These factors directly influence the "Overall Health Score." Scarcity of primary care physicians will lower the score.

Identifying standout practices within Satsuma is also important. This involves evaluating the quality of care provided, patient satisfaction levels, and the range of services offered. Are there any practices known for their commitment to patient-centered care, preventative medicine, or chronic disease management? Reviews from patients, accreditation status, and the adoption of best practices can all contribute to the assessment of these practices. Practices with excellent reputations and a focus on patient well-being will positively influence the overall score.

Telemedicine adoption is transforming healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. The presence of telemedicine services, allowing patients to consult with physicians remotely, can significantly improve access to care, especially for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. The availability of telemedicine options for primary care, specialist consultations, and mental health services is crucial. Widespread adoption of telemedicine will positively impact the overall score, demonstrating a commitment to innovative healthcare delivery.

Mental health resources are another critical aspect of overall health. The availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors within Satsuma, or in nearby communities, is essential. Assessing the availability of mental health services is crucial, as mental health is a vital component of overall health. The presence of mental health clinics, support groups, and crisis intervention services will positively impact the overall health score. A lack of these resources would negatively affect the score.

The "Overall Health Score" is not just about numbers; it's about the community's ability to access and utilize healthcare resources effectively. Factors like socioeconomic status, insurance coverage, and health literacy also play a role. However, this analysis primarily focuses on the availability and quality of healthcare services within the 36572 ZIP code. The score will be a reflection of the combined effect of the physician-to-patient ratio, primary care availability, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the accessibility of mental health resources.

To calculate the score, each category will be assessed and weighted based on its importance. For example, the physician-to-patient ratio and primary care availability might be given higher weight due to their fundamental role in healthcare access. The presence of telemedicine and mental health resources will also be weighted, but perhaps slightly less. The overall score will then be a composite of these weighted scores.

The final "Overall Health Score" will be presented as a numerical value, with a corresponding qualitative assessment (e.g., "Excellent," "Good," "Fair," "Poor"). This assessment will provide a clear and concise summary of the healthcare landscape in Satsuma. The analysis will also highlight areas where improvements are needed, such as increasing the number of primary care physicians, expanding telemedicine services, or improving access to mental health resources.

This analysis aims to provide a snapshot of the healthcare landscape in Satsuma. However, it is important to remember that healthcare is dynamic. The availability of resources and the quality of care can change over time. Regular assessments are necessary to monitor progress and identify emerging challenges. The goal is to empower the community with the knowledge needed to advocate for better healthcare services and improve the overall health and well-being of its residents.

For a deeper dive into the healthcare landscape of Satsuma and surrounding areas, and to visualize the data discussed in this analysis, we encourage you to explore the power of geographic data visualization with CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide interactive and insightful visualizations of healthcare data, allowing you to explore physician locations, hospital access, and other crucial health indicators in a user-friendly format.