36587, Wilmer, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 36587, Wilmer, Alabama is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.17 percent of the residents in 36587 has some form of health insurance. 39.38 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.43 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 36587 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,171 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 69 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36587. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,836 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 10,566 health care providers accessible to residents in 36587, Wilmer, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: ZIP Code 36587 & Wilmer Primary Care

This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment for the medical landscape within ZIP code 36587, focusing on primary care availability in the broader area of Wilmer, Alabama. This assessment considers various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption rates, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare environment, highlighting strengths and areas needing improvement.

The healthcare ecosystem within 36587, while encompassing a specific geographic area, is intrinsically linked to the wider Wilmer community. This is particularly relevant for primary care, where patient access often extends beyond strict ZIP code boundaries. Evaluating the health of the community requires considering the broader resources available, including those within Wilmer.

One of the most critical metrics is the physician-to-patient ratio. This ratio reflects the availability of medical professionals relative to the population. A low ratio suggests a potential shortage of doctors, which can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to care, and increased pressure on existing providers. Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio within 36587 and the surrounding Wilmer area requires accessing up-to-date data from sources like the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) or state medical boards. Any analysis must begin with the most recent data available to ensure accuracy. Furthermore, the distribution of physicians matters. Even with a reasonable overall ratio, a concentration of specialists and a scarcity of primary care physicians (PCPs) can create access challenges.

Identifying "standout practices" involves evaluating the quality of care, patient satisfaction, and the range of services offered. This requires examining patient reviews, assessing the accreditation status of medical facilities, and considering the availability of specialized programs. Practices that consistently receive positive feedback from patients, demonstrate a commitment to quality improvement, and offer a comprehensive suite of services, including preventive care, chronic disease management, and specialized treatments, are considered standout examples. For example, practices with a strong emphasis on patient education, offering extended hours, or employing a diverse team of healthcare professionals often stand out.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important. The ability to access healthcare remotely, through video consultations, online portals, and remote monitoring, can significantly improve access to care, especially for individuals in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Assessing telemedicine adoption involves examining the availability of telehealth services offered by local practices, the types of services provided remotely (e.g., primary care consultations, mental health therapy), and the ease of use of the telemedicine platforms. Practices that have embraced telemedicine effectively can expand their reach and provide more convenient care options for patients.

Mental health resources are another crucial component of overall health. Assessing the availability of mental health services involves evaluating the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors in the area. It is important to consider the types of mental health services offered, such as individual therapy, group therapy, and medication management. The accessibility of these services, including insurance acceptance and wait times, is also a key factor. Furthermore, the integration of mental health services into primary care practices is a significant advantage, as it can facilitate early detection and treatment of mental health conditions. The presence of support groups, community mental health centers, and crisis intervention services also contributes to a robust mental health ecosystem.

Beyond these core elements, several other factors contribute to the overall health score. These include the availability of specialty care (e.g., cardiology, dermatology), access to diagnostic services (e.g., imaging, laboratory testing), the presence of community health initiatives (e.g., health education programs, disease prevention campaigns), and the overall socioeconomic conditions of the community. Factors like transportation options, food security, and housing stability can also significantly influence health outcomes.

The assessment of healthcare in 36587 and Wilmer requires a multi-faceted approach. Data from various sources, including medical directories, patient reviews, government health agencies, and local community organizations, must be compiled and analyzed. The analysis should consider the specific needs of the population, including age demographics, prevalent health conditions, and socioeconomic factors.

Furthermore, the assessment must be dynamic. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, with new technologies, treatment options, and healthcare policies emerging regularly. This requires ongoing monitoring and evaluation to ensure that the overall health score accurately reflects the current state of healthcare in the area. Regular updates are essential to maintain the relevance of the assessment.

In conclusion, the "Overall Health Score" for 36587 and Wilmer is determined by a complex interplay of factors. While a precise numerical score requires a detailed data analysis, the key elements include physician availability, quality of care, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the broader socioeconomic context. The health of the community is a shared responsibility, and ongoing efforts to improve access to care, enhance the quality of services, and address social determinants of health are crucial for creating a healthier and more vibrant community.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in 36587 and Wilmer, including the locations of medical facilities, physician distribution, and demographic data, explore the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps.