36728, Catherine, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 36728, Catherine, Alabama is 4 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 75.32 percent of the residents in 36728 has some form of health insurance. 75.32 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 4.45 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 36728 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 243 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36728. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 46 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 74 health care providers accessible to residents in 36728, Catherine, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Catherine, AL (ZIP Code 36728)

Analyzing the overall health landscape within Catherine, Alabama, specifically focusing on the 36728 ZIP code, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption rates, and the accessibility of mental health resources. A comprehensive understanding of these factors allows for a nuanced "Overall Health Score" assessment, providing insights into the community's well-being and areas needing improvement.

Catherine, Alabama, is a rural community, and this geographic context heavily influences its healthcare infrastructure. The primary challenge is likely limited access to care, a common issue in rural areas. This scarcity impacts the overall health score significantly, creating a baseline of difficulty. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) forms the foundation of a healthy community. Low PCP density means residents may face longer wait times for appointments, reduced preventative care, and difficulty managing chronic conditions.

Physician-to-patient ratios are crucial. The national average physician-to-patient ratio serves as a benchmark. A ratio significantly higher than the national average indicates a shortage of physicians, putting a strain on existing healthcare providers and potentially leading to burnout. This shortage can translate into a decreased quality of care and poorer health outcomes for residents. The exact ratio within 36728 requires specific data, but the rural nature suggests a higher-than-average ratio, negatively impacting the overall health score.

Identifying "standout practices" is critical. These are healthcare providers who demonstrate excellence in patient care, innovative service delivery, or community outreach. These practices can serve as models for other providers and contribute significantly to the overall health score. Factors to consider include patient satisfaction scores, quality of care metrics (e.g., rates of preventative screenings, chronic disease management), and the adoption of technology to improve patient outcomes. The presence of such practices can partially offset the negative impacts of low physician density.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor. Telemedicine offers a potential solution to the geographical barriers of rural healthcare. By providing remote consultations, monitoring, and follow-up care, telemedicine can increase access to specialists and primary care physicians. The degree of telemedicine adoption within 36728 directly impacts the overall health score. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to expanding access and improving patient convenience, thus positively influencing the score.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in rural healthcare assessments, but their importance is paramount. Access to mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors, is vital for overall well-being. The availability of these resources, including the presence of mental health clinics, support groups, and telehealth options, directly impacts the overall health score. A shortage of mental health resources can contribute to untreated mental illnesses, substance abuse, and other related health problems.

Specific examples within the 36728 ZIP code are essential for a truly informed assessment. Identifying the presence of a local clinic, the number of practicing physicians, and the availability of specific services are crucial for providing a complete picture. Information regarding the adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) and the integration of telehealth services would also be significant. This detailed information would allow for a more accurate and comprehensive health score assessment.

Furthermore, understanding the demographics of Catherine, Alabama, is vital. Factors such as age, income levels, and the prevalence of chronic diseases within the population influence the healthcare needs of the community. A high percentage of elderly residents, for example, may require more specialized care and access to geriatric services. A high prevalence of chronic diseases, such as diabetes or heart disease, would increase the demand for specialized care and disease management programs.

The overall health score for Catherine, Alabama (36728), is likely to be negatively impacted by the rural setting. The limited number of physicians, the potential for a high physician-to-patient ratio, and the challenges of accessing mental health resources will likely lower the score. However, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and any community initiatives to improve healthcare access can positively impact the score. A detailed analysis, incorporating specific data on these factors, is essential to provide a truly accurate assessment.

In conclusion, the overall health score for Catherine, Alabama, depends on a complex interplay of factors. While the rural context presents significant challenges, the community's health outcomes can be improved through strategic investments in healthcare infrastructure, the adoption of innovative technologies, and a focus on preventative care and mental health services. Understanding the specific challenges and opportunities within the community is the first step toward improving the overall health and well-being of its residents.

For a deeper dive into the geographical context of healthcare access and to visualize the distribution of resources, consider exploring the power of spatial data. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful tool for visualizing healthcare data, allowing you to analyze physician density, identify underserved areas, and understand the impact of geographic factors on healthcare access.