36736, Dixons Mills, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 36736, Dixons Mills, Alabama is 7 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.32 percent of the residents in 36736 has some form of health insurance. 37.86 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.70 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 36736 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 692 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36736. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 235 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 110 health care providers accessible to residents in 36736, Dixons Mills, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Dixons Mills, Alabama (ZIP Code 36736)

Assessing the overall health landscape in Dixons Mills, Alabama (ZIP code 36736) requires a multifaceted approach, considering the availability and quality of primary care physicians, the resources available for mental health, the adoption of telemedicine, and the overall physician-to-patient ratio. This analysis aims to provide an "Overall Health Score," offering a nuanced understanding of the healthcare environment in this rural community.

The primary care physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial indicator. In rural areas like Dixons Mills, the availability of primary care is often strained. National averages are not always relevant, as the specific demographic makeup and socioeconomic factors of the community significantly influence health outcomes. A low physician-to-patient ratio, meaning a higher number of patients per doctor, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potential difficulties in accessing preventative care. Data from the Alabama Department of Public Health, combined with information from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), is essential to obtain an accurate estimate of this ratio. Researching the local hospital's patient load and the number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the ZIP code is vital. This data will allow for a more accurate assessment of the accessibility of primary care.

Identifying standout practices involves a deeper dive. Are there any primary care clinics or individual physicians consistently recognized for their patient satisfaction, quality of care, or innovative approaches? This requires examining patient reviews, surveying local community members, and analyzing publicly available data on healthcare quality metrics. Look for practices that emphasize patient education, preventative care, and chronic disease management. Are there any practices that offer extended hours, weekend appointments, or other accommodations to meet the needs of the community? Practices that prioritize patient experience and demonstrate a commitment to community health can significantly improve the overall health score.

Telemedicine adoption represents a critical element in evaluating the health of a rural community. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to access healthcare services remotely. This is particularly important in Dixons Mills, where travel distances to specialists or hospitals might be considerable. Assessing telemedicine adoption involves investigating which primary care practices offer telehealth consultations, the types of services available through telemedicine (e.g., follow-up appointments, mental health counseling), and the technologies utilized. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can improve access to care and enhance the overall health score.

Mental health resources are essential components of a comprehensive healthcare system. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed counselors, is a key factor. Assessing the mental health landscape requires researching the number of mental health providers practicing within the ZIP code, the types of services offered (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), and the accessibility of these services. Does the local hospital or any primary care practices offer integrated behavioral health services? Are there any community mental health centers or support groups available? Limited access to mental health services can significantly impact the overall health score.

The overall health score is not simply a numerical value; it's a complex evaluation of the entire healthcare ecosystem. Factors such as the availability of specialists, the presence of a local hospital, the accessibility of pharmacies, and the availability of transportation services also play a role. The overall score is a holistic assessment of the community's ability to access and receive quality healthcare.

Analyzing the data, we can begin to form a picture of the health landscape in Dixons Mills. If the physician-to-patient ratio is high, and telemedicine adoption is low, the score will be negatively impacted. If mental health resources are scarce, this will further reduce the score. On the other hand, if there are standout practices with high patient satisfaction, and the local hospital offers a range of services, the score will improve.

Ultimately, the "Overall Health Score" is a dynamic measure that can change over time. Healthcare is constantly evolving, and the needs of the community change as well. Regular assessments are crucial to identify areas for improvement and to track progress in enhancing the health and well-being of the residents of Dixons Mills.

To gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Dixons Mills, Alabama, and visualize the data with spatial context, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. They can provide an interactive and insightful way to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, physician locations, and other relevant data points, offering a valuable tool for understanding and improving the overall health score of the community.