36579, Stockton, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 36579, Stockton, Alabama is 17 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.37 percent of the residents in 36579 has some form of health insurance. 48.56 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.81 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 36579 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 204 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36579. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 263 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 135 health care providers accessible to residents in 36579, Stockton, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Stockton, AL (ZIP Code 36579)

Assessing the overall health score for the residents of Stockton, Alabama, specifically within the 36579 ZIP code, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers various factors, including the availability and accessibility of primary care physicians, the adoption of telemedicine, the presence of mental health resources, and the overall physician-to-patient ratio. This score, while not a definitive number, aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Stockton.

One of the most critical indicators of a community's health is the physician-to-patient ratio. In rural areas like Stockton, access to healthcare professionals can be significantly limited. The national average often serves as a benchmark, but the reality on the ground can vary widely. Determining the precise ratio for 36579 requires data from the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners, local hospitals, and private practices. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, often translates to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially poorer health outcomes.

The availability of primary care physicians is a cornerstone of a healthy community. These doctors act as the first point of contact for healthcare needs, providing preventative care, managing chronic conditions, and coordinating specialist referrals. Identifying the number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the 36579 ZIP code is essential. This includes family medicine doctors, internal medicine specialists, and general practitioners. Further investigation into the types of insurance accepted by these practices, their hours of operation, and their patient load provides a more nuanced understanding of accessibility.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of care provided by these physicians is paramount. Identifying standout practices within Stockton requires analyzing patient reviews, assessing accreditations (such as those from the Joint Commission), and considering the adoption of innovative practices. Practices that prioritize patient communication, offer extended hours, and utilize electronic health records are generally better positioned to deliver high-quality care. Investigating the specific services offered, such as on-site labs or radiology, also contributes to the overall assessment.

Telemedicine adoption has emerged as a crucial factor in healthcare accessibility, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, overcoming geographical barriers and reducing the need for travel. Determining the extent of telemedicine adoption within Stockton requires investigating which primary care practices offer virtual appointments, the types of services offered through telemedicine (e.g., follow-up appointments, medication management), and the technological infrastructure available to support these services. The availability of reliable internet access for residents is also a crucial consideration.

Mental health resources are an increasingly important aspect of overall health. Access to mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is critical for addressing conditions like anxiety, depression, and other mental illnesses. Assessing the availability of mental health services in Stockton involves identifying the number of mental health professionals practicing within the area, the types of services offered (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), and the availability of support groups and community resources. Investigating the integration of mental health services within primary care practices is also essential.

Evaluating the availability of specialized care, such as cardiology, dermatology, and other specialties, is also a part of the overall health score. While primary care physicians are the first line of defense, access to specialists is often necessary for managing complex health conditions. Determining the proximity of specialist physicians to Stockton residents, the ease of referral processes, and the availability of transportation to specialist appointments are all important considerations.

The overall health score for Stockton, AL, will be affected by the presence of hospitals and urgent care facilities. The availability of emergency services, the quality of care provided by local hospitals, and the proximity of these facilities to residents all contribute to the overall assessment. Analyzing patient satisfaction scores for local hospitals, evaluating the availability of specialized services within these hospitals, and considering the response times of emergency services are essential.

The health of a community is also influenced by social determinants of health. These factors include socioeconomic status, education levels, access to healthy food, and the availability of safe housing. While not directly related to healthcare services, these factors significantly impact health outcomes. Assessing these social determinants of health within Stockton provides a broader context for understanding the overall health score.

Ultimately, the overall health score for Stockton, AL (36579) is not a static number but a dynamic assessment that reflects the interplay of numerous factors. A high score indicates a community with good access to quality healthcare, a strong network of primary care physicians, robust mental health resources, and a commitment to preventative care. A low score, on the other hand, suggests areas for improvement, such as increasing the physician-to-patient ratio, expanding telemedicine adoption, and enhancing mental health services.

To visualize and understand the healthcare landscape of Stockton, AL, and to gain a deeper understanding of the factors influencing its overall health score, explore the power of spatial data analysis. **Visit CartoChrome maps to visualize the data and gain insights into the healthcare resources available in Stockton and other areas.**