36761, Minter, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 36761, Minter, Alabama is 4 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.30 percent of the residents in 36761 has some form of health insurance. 74.51 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 30.88 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 36761 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 172 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36761. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 196 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 67 health care providers accessible to residents in 36761, Minter, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 36761 & Primary Care Availability in Minter

Evaluating the overall health landscape within ZIP code 36761, which encompasses the community of Minter, Alabama, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into key indicators such as physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, telemedicine adoption rates, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" assessment, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare ecosystem within this specific geographic area.

The foundation of any robust healthcare system lies in the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Minter, and by extension ZIP code 36761, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and a potential decline in overall health outcomes. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests a more accessible system, allowing for earlier diagnosis and intervention. Accurately determining this ratio requires considering the total population of the area and the number of practicing PCPs, including family medicine physicians, general internal medicine specialists, and pediatricians. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and state medical boards can provide valuable insights.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of available primary care is paramount. Identifying standout practices involves evaluating factors such as patient satisfaction scores, the range of services offered, and the adoption of modern technologies. Practices that have earned high ratings from patients, as measured by online reviews and patient surveys, are likely providing a higher level of care. The availability of comprehensive services, including preventative screenings, chronic disease management, and same-day appointments, also contributes to a practice's overall quality. Furthermore, the integration of electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals streamlines communication and improves care coordination.

Telemedicine adoption represents another crucial aspect of the healthcare landscape. The ability to consult with a physician remotely, through video conferencing or phone calls, can significantly improve access to care, especially for individuals in rural or underserved areas. Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for managing chronic conditions, providing follow-up care, and offering mental health services. Assessing the level of telemedicine adoption involves determining the number of practices that offer virtual appointments, the types of services available through telemedicine, and the ease of use of the platforms.

Mental health resources are a critical component of overall well-being. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed therapists, is a key indicator of a community's health. Access to mental health services can be particularly challenging in rural areas, where there may be a shortage of providers and limited access to specialized care. Assessing the mental health landscape involves evaluating the number of mental health professionals practicing in the area, the availability of crisis intervention services, and the presence of support groups and community resources.

To provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score," we must synthesize these various factors. The physician-to-patient ratio provides a baseline assessment of access to care. The quality of primary care practices, as measured by patient satisfaction and service offerings, indicates the level of care available. Telemedicine adoption enhances access and convenience. The availability of mental health resources addresses a critical aspect of overall well-being.

The specific "Overall Health Score" for ZIP code 36761 is difficult to determine without access to real-time data. However, based on general trends in rural Alabama, it is likely that the area faces challenges in several of these categories. The physician-to-patient ratio may be lower than the national average, potentially leading to limited access to primary care. The availability of mental health resources may also be constrained, with fewer providers and limited access to specialized services. Telemedicine adoption could mitigate some of these challenges, but its widespread use may still be developing.

Improving the "Overall Health Score" requires a multifaceted approach. Increasing the number of primary care physicians through recruitment and retention efforts is essential. Supporting existing practices by providing resources and incentives to adopt modern technologies, such as EHRs and telemedicine platforms, can enhance efficiency and improve patient care. Expanding mental health services through the recruitment of mental health professionals and the establishment of community-based programs is also crucial.

In conclusion, assessing the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 36761 and the availability of primary care in Minter requires a holistic evaluation of several key factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care practices, telemedicine adoption, and the accessibility of mental health resources all contribute to the overall health score. While specific data is needed to provide a precise score, it is crucial to acknowledge the challenges faced by rural communities in accessing quality healthcare.

For those seeking a more detailed visual representation of healthcare resources and accessibility within ZIP code 36761 and surrounding areas, consider exploring the power of spatial data analysis with CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that can visualize physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and other relevant data points, allowing for a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape. Explore CartoChrome maps today to gain a more comprehensive perspective on the health of your community.