36752, Lowndesboro, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 36752, Lowndesboro, Alabama is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.83 percent of the residents in 36752 has some form of health insurance. 34.71 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.19 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 36752 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 195 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36752. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 255 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 132 health care providers accessible to residents in 36752, Lowndesboro, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Lowndesboro, Alabama (ZIP Code 36752)

Lowndesboro, Alabama, nestled within ZIP code 36752, presents a unique challenge when assessing its overall health landscape. This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care, focusing on key indicators like physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the presence of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" assessment, offering insight into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system.

The cornerstone of any healthy community is access to primary care physicians (PCPs). In Lowndesboro and the surrounding areas encompassed by 36752, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. Rural areas often struggle with physician shortages, and this can significantly impact access to timely and preventative care. Analyzing data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) is crucial to determine the actual ratio. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, would suggest potential difficulties in securing appointments, leading to delayed diagnoses and treatment. Conversely, a higher ratio, though ideal, doesn't guarantee quality; it merely suggests greater availability.

Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code is essential. This involves looking beyond raw numbers and examining the quality of care provided. Factors to consider include patient satisfaction scores (often available through online reviews and patient surveys), the range of services offered (e.g., chronic disease management, preventative screenings), and the adoption of innovative technologies. Practices that embrace electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals generally demonstrate a commitment to efficiency and patient engagement. Furthermore, practices that are actively involved in community outreach and health education initiatives often contribute positively to the overall health of the population.

Telemedicine, the practice of medicine using technology to deliver care remotely, is increasingly vital, especially in rural areas. Its adoption rate in Lowndesboro is a significant indicator of healthcare accessibility. Practices that offer telemedicine options can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with physicians without traveling long distances. This is particularly important for follow-up appointments, medication management, and consultations for chronic conditions. Assessing the types of telemedicine services offered (e.g., video consultations, remote monitoring) and the ease of access for patients is crucial. A low telemedicine adoption rate would suggest a potential barrier to healthcare access for residents.

Mental health resources are another critical aspect of overall health. The availability of psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors within the community is a key indicator. Lowndesboro's health score is directly impacted by the availability of these services. Examining the number of mental health professionals per capita, the types of mental health services offered (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), and the accessibility of these services (e.g., insurance acceptance, wait times) is essential. The presence of community mental health centers and partnerships with local schools and organizations can also contribute to a more robust mental health infrastructure. The absence of adequate mental health support would be a significant negative factor in the overall health score.

Beyond the direct provision of medical services, other factors contribute to the health score. These include the prevalence of chronic diseases (e.g., diabetes, heart disease), the rates of preventative screenings (e.g., mammograms, colonoscopies), and the overall health behaviors of the population (e.g., smoking rates, physical activity levels). Data from public health agencies and local health departments can provide valuable insights into these factors. A community with high rates of chronic disease and low rates of preventative care would likely receive a lower overall health score.

The overall health score for Lowndesboro, Alabama, ZIP code 36752, is a complex metric. It is a composite of the factors discussed above. Based on the potential challenges of rural healthcare, the score is likely to be affected by the physician-to-patient ratio, the degree of telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. The quality of care provided by standout practices and the overall health behaviors of the population also play a crucial role. A thorough assessment requires a combination of quantitative data (e.g., physician-to-patient ratios) and qualitative data (e.g., patient satisfaction scores).

The score would also need to consider the impact of social determinants of health. These include factors such as socioeconomic status, access to healthy food, and the quality of housing. These factors can significantly impact a community's health outcomes. A community with high rates of poverty and limited access to resources would likely face greater health challenges. The overall health score needs to reflect the interplay of all these factors.

In conclusion, the overall health score for Lowndesboro, Alabama, ZIP code 36752, is likely to be moderate to low, given the challenges faced by rural communities. The availability of primary care physicians, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources are the most significant factors influencing the score. Further research, including detailed data analysis, is required to provide a definitive score and identify specific areas for improvement. The health of the community is a dynamic entity. Ongoing monitoring and evaluation are necessary to ensure that the healthcare system effectively meets the needs of its residents.

To visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, physician locations, and health data within Lowndesboro and the surrounding areas, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide interactive and visually engaging representations of geographic data, offering a powerful tool for understanding the healthcare landscape and identifying areas with the greatest need.