36773, Safford, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 36773, Safford, Alabama is 3 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 51.72 percent of the residents in 36773 has some form of health insurance. 45.86 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 7.24 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 36773 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 38 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36773. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 44 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 30 health care providers accessible to residents in 36773, Safford, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: ZIP Code 36773 (Doctors) and Safford (Primary Care)

Assessing the healthcare landscape within ZIP code 36773 and the primary care availability in Safford requires a nuanced approach, moving beyond simple metrics to encompass a holistic view of access, quality, and resource availability. This analysis will provide an 'Overall Health Score' assessment, considering key factors and offering insights into the current state of healthcare in these specific areas.

**ZIP Code 36773: A Deep Dive into Physician Availability**

ZIP code 36773, encompassing a specific geographical area, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities in healthcare. The 'Overall Health Score' for this region is heavily influenced by the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can significantly hinder access to care, leading to longer wait times for appointments, reduced preventative care, and a potential decline in overall community health.

Data on the physician-to-patient ratio in 36773 is critical. Publicly available databases, such as those maintained by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or state medical boards, provide valuable insights into the number of active physicians, including specialists, practicing within the ZIP code. Comparing this number to the population of 36773 allows for the calculation of the ratio. A ratio significantly below the national or state average would negatively impact the 'Overall Health Score'.

Beyond raw numbers, the types of physicians available are crucial. The presence of primary care physicians (PCPs) is paramount. PCPs serve as the first point of contact for patients, providing preventative care, managing chronic conditions, and coordinating specialist referrals. The lack of PCPs can lead to patients seeking care in emergency rooms, increasing healthcare costs and potentially leading to poorer health outcomes. The availability of specialists, such as cardiologists, neurologists, and oncologists, also impacts the score. A limited number of specialists forces residents to travel long distances for specialized care, which is a significant barrier.

Identifying standout practices within 36773 is vital. Practices with a strong reputation for patient care, experienced physicians, and a commitment to community health can positively influence the 'Overall Health Score'. Factors to consider include patient satisfaction scores, the adoption of innovative technologies, and participation in community outreach programs. Examining the patient reviews on platforms such as Healthgrades, Vitals, and Zocdoc provides insights into the patient experience.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. Telemedicine, the use of technology to provide healthcare remotely, can improve access to care, especially for those in rural or underserved areas. Practices that offer telemedicine services, such as virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online prescription refills, enhance the 'Overall Health Score'. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services among the doctors in 36773 is essential.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are a critical component of overall health. The availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists within 36773 directly impacts the 'Overall Health Score'. Access to mental health services is crucial for managing stress, anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions. The presence of mental health clinics, counseling services, and support groups contributes to a higher score.

**Primary Care Availability in Safford: A Regional Perspective**

Evaluating primary care availability in Safford requires a broader perspective, considering the surrounding areas and regional healthcare networks. The 'Overall Health Score' for Safford is influenced by factors similar to those in 36773, but with a focus on the availability of PCPs and the accessibility of primary care services.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Safford itself is a starting point, but the analysis should extend to the surrounding counties and towns. Patients in Safford may seek care outside of the city limits, making it necessary to consider the regional availability of PCPs. Analyzing the number of PCPs per capita across the region provides a more comprehensive picture of access to care.

The geographic distribution of primary care practices is also critical. Are practices clustered in one area, or are they distributed throughout Safford and the surrounding communities? The proximity of primary care practices to residents impacts access. Residents in remote areas may face significant travel distances to access primary care services, which can negatively impact the 'Overall Health Score'.

The types of primary care services offered in Safford are also significant. Do practices offer a full range of services, including preventative care, chronic disease management, and same-day appointments? The availability of specialized services, such as women's health or geriatric care, also contributes to the 'Overall Health Score'.

The adoption of technology, including telemedicine and electronic health records (EHRs), can improve the efficiency and accessibility of primary care services in Safford. Practices that utilize EHRs can streamline patient care, improve communication, and reduce errors. Telemedicine can expand access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations.

Mental health integration into primary care is another factor to consider. Practices that offer mental health services or have established referral networks with mental health professionals can improve the 'Overall Health Score'. Recognizing the connection between physical and mental health is crucial for providing comprehensive care.

The affordability of primary care services is a key consideration. The acceptance of various insurance plans, including Medicaid and Medicare, impacts access to care. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans ensure that more residents can afford necessary healthcare services.

**Concluding Remarks**

The 'Overall Health Score' for both ZIP code 36773 and Safford is a complex metric, influenced by a multitude of factors. Physician-to-patient ratios, the availability of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, the presence of mental health resources, and the affordability of care all contribute to the overall assessment. A comprehensive analysis requires a data-driven approach, considering both quantitative and qualitative factors.

To visualize and further analyze these complex healthcare landscapes, explore the power of data visualization with CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can help you to visualize the distribution of physicians, the accessibility of primary care services, and other relevant data points, leading to a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment in these specific areas.