36766, Oak Hill, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 36766, Oak Hill, Alabama is 4 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 79.17 percent of the residents in 36766 has some form of health insurance. 25.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.83 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 36766 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36766. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 6 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 70 health care providers accessible to residents in 36766, Oak Hill, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 36766 and Primary Care Availability in Oak Hill

This analysis assesses the overall health score for residents within ZIP code 36766, encompassing the town of Thomasville, Alabama, and specifically evaluates primary care availability in the Oak Hill area, a neighborhood within Thomasville. The evaluation considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. This assessment aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape, highlighting strengths and weaknesses for residents seeking medical care.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of healthcare accessibility. In 36766, the ratio is a critical factor. While precise, real-time data is often proprietary, publicly available information and data from sources like the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) and the Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) suggest a potential challenge. Rural areas often face shortages. This means that the number of physicians, particularly primary care physicians (PCPs), may be lower relative to the population. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments, increased travel distances to access care, and potentially, a reduced ability for residents to receive timely medical attention. The Oak Hill area, being a part of Thomasville, likely shares similar challenges in this regard.

Standout practices can significantly improve the overall health score. The presence of well-established medical groups, clinics, and hospitals with a reputation for quality care is crucial. These practices often serve as centers of excellence, providing a higher level of service and attracting specialized physicians. Identifying these practices involves examining patient reviews, accreditation status, and the range of services offered. In Thomasville, the local hospital, along with any affiliated clinics, plays a significant role. Assessing their capabilities, including the availability of specialists, diagnostic services, and emergency care, is vital. The presence of community health centers, which often cater to underserved populations, would also be a positive factor.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical component of the health score. Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas. It can improve access to care by reducing the need for travel, offering greater flexibility in scheduling appointments, and allowing patients to consult with specialists who may not be locally available. Evaluating telemedicine adoption involves examining the availability of telehealth services offered by local practices, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals. The extent to which these services are integrated into the standard of care is a key indicator of the health score.

Mental health resources are an essential aspect of overall health. The availability of mental health services, including psychiatrists, therapists, counselors, and support groups, is crucial for addressing mental health concerns. Assessing the health score requires evaluating the number of mental health professionals in the area, the accessibility of mental health clinics, and the availability of programs that address specific mental health needs, such as substance abuse treatment. This includes evaluating the presence of support groups, crisis intervention services, and mental health education programs within the community. Areas with limited mental health resources will negatively impact the overall health score.

The specific assessment of primary care availability in Oak Hill, a neighborhood within Thomasville, requires a localized perspective. The presence of primary care physicians within Oak Hill itself, or in close proximity, is a key factor. If residents must travel significant distances to access a PCP, this negatively impacts the health score. The types of primary care practices available (e.g., family medicine, internal medicine) and their acceptance of insurance are also important considerations. Furthermore, the availability of after-hours care or urgent care facilities in the area can improve access to primary care.

Analyzing the data on all these factors, a composite health score can be determined. The score would reflect the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in 36766. If the physician-to-patient ratio is low, telemedicine adoption is limited, and mental health resources are scarce, the overall score would likely be lower. Conversely, the presence of standout practices, high telemedicine adoption, and robust mental health services would contribute to a higher score. The specific health score for Oak Hill would be influenced by the availability of primary care services within and around the neighborhood.

The overall health score in 36766, and particularly in Oak Hill, is likely to be influenced by the challenges associated with rural healthcare. The goal is to identify areas for improvement. This could include initiatives to attract and retain physicians, expand telemedicine services, and increase access to mental health resources. Community-based programs can also play a role.

For a more detailed and visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in 36766, including the distribution of healthcare providers, the location of medical facilities, and the availability of specific services, explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. These maps allow you to visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment.