36867, Phenix City, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 36867, Phenix City, Alabama is 5 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.70 percent of the residents in 36867 has some form of health insurance. 42.14 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.11 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 36867 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,182 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36867. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,328 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 580 health care providers accessible to residents in 36867, Phenix City, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Phenix City, AL (ZIP Code 36867)

This analysis assesses the overall health landscape in Phenix City, Alabama (ZIP code 36867), focusing on primary care physician availability, healthcare resource accessibility, and the integration of modern healthcare practices. We will evaluate the existing physician-to-patient ratios, identify standout practices, examine the adoption of telemedicine, and gauge the availability of mental health resources, culminating in a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' assessment.

The foundation of any healthy community rests on the accessibility of primary care physicians. In Phenix City, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of healthcare access. This ratio, calculated by dividing the population by the number of primary care physicians practicing within the ZIP code and immediately surrounding areas, provides a snapshot of potential patient load per doctor. A higher ratio suggests a greater burden on each physician, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and overall decreased access to timely care. Publicly available data from the U.S. Census Bureau and the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners, alongside information from local hospitals and clinics, are essential for calculating this ratio. The analysis will determine if the ratio aligns with national averages, identifying any potential shortages or surpluses of primary care providers.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality and distribution of primary care services are vital. Standout practices in Phenix City often distinguish themselves through a combination of factors. These include, but are not limited to, the experience and qualifications of their physicians, the range of services offered, patient satisfaction ratings, and the integration of technology to enhance patient care. Practices that embrace electronic health records (EHRs) to streamline patient information management, offer convenient appointment scheduling options, and actively engage in preventative care initiatives are often considered leaders in the field. These practices contribute significantly to improving the overall health score by providing comprehensive and patient-centered care.

The adoption of telemedicine is another crucial element in the modern healthcare landscape. Telemedicine, the practice of providing healthcare services remotely using technology, offers significant advantages, particularly in rural or underserved areas. It can expand access to specialists, provide convenient follow-up appointments, and facilitate remote monitoring of chronic conditions. The analysis will assess the extent to which telemedicine is utilized by primary care providers in Phenix City. This includes evaluating the availability of virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring programs, and the integration of telehealth platforms into existing care models. The presence of telemedicine services can significantly improve the overall health score by broadening access to care and improving patient outcomes.

Mental health resources are an integral part of overall well-being, and their availability is a key factor in determining the health score. The analysis will examine the availability of mental health services within Phenix City, including the number of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors. It will also assess the accessibility of these services, considering factors such as insurance acceptance, wait times, and the availability of crisis intervention services. Furthermore, the analysis will explore any partnerships between primary care providers and mental health professionals, as integrated care models often lead to improved outcomes for patients with mental health conditions. The availability of robust mental health resources is crucial for addressing the complex needs of the community and improving the overall health score.

Assessing the quality of health resources also involves looking at the accessibility of specialty care. While primary care physicians are the foundation of healthcare, access to specialists is essential for managing complex health conditions. This analysis will look at the availability of specialists such as cardiologists, endocrinologists, and gastroenterologists within a reasonable distance from Phenix City. The proximity of specialty care providers significantly impacts the overall health score, as it allows for timely referrals and comprehensive management of chronic diseases.

The overall health score for Phenix City, AL (36867) is a composite measure based on the factors mentioned above. This assessment considers the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality and distribution of primary care services, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the access to specialty care. A higher score indicates a healthier community with greater access to quality healthcare services. The score will be based on a scale, reflecting the community's strengths and weaknesses.

To improve the overall health score, Phenix City could focus on several key areas. Increasing the number of primary care physicians, especially in underserved areas, would be beneficial. Promoting the adoption of telemedicine by primary care providers could expand access to care, particularly for patients in remote locations or those with mobility limitations. Investing in mental health resources, including increasing the number of mental health professionals and expanding access to mental health services, would address a critical need in the community. Finally, fostering collaboration between primary care providers, specialists, and mental health professionals could lead to more integrated and patient-centered care.

In conclusion, the overall health score for Phenix City, AL (36867) reflects a complex interplay of factors related to healthcare access, quality, and availability. Understanding these factors is crucial for identifying areas for improvement and developing strategies to enhance the health and well-being of the community. This analysis offers a comprehensive overview of the current healthcare landscape in Phenix City.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Phenix City, including the location of healthcare providers, demographics, and other relevant data, explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome.