36875, Seale, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 36875, Seale, Alabama is 5 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.67 percent of the residents in 36875 has some form of health insurance. 38.96 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.90 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 36875 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 723 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36875. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 626 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 571 health care providers accessible to residents in 36875, Seale, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Seale, Alabama (ZIP Code 36875)

Evaluating the overall health landscape of Seale, Alabama (ZIP code 36875) requires a multifaceted approach, considering the availability and quality of primary care physicians, the resources dedicated to mental health, and the integration of modern technologies like telemedicine. This analysis provides an 'Overall Health Score' assessment, taking into account various factors to paint a comprehensive picture.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Primary Care Availability:**

The cornerstone of any healthy community is access to primary care. A crucial metric for assessing this is the physician-to-patient ratio. In Seale, this ratio is likely a significant factor in the 'Overall Health Score'. Rural areas often face challenges in attracting and retaining physicians, leading to a potentially unfavorable ratio. To determine the precise ratio, data from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or similar sources would be required. However, based on the demographic profile of Seale, it is reasonable to anticipate a ratio that might be less favorable than the national average. This scarcity impacts appointment availability, potentially leading to delayed care and increased reliance on emergency services for non-emergency situations.

The geographical distribution of primary care practices within the ZIP code is another critical aspect. Are practices clustered in one area, leaving other parts of Seale underserved? This uneven distribution can create disparities in access to care, with residents in certain areas facing longer travel times and greater barriers to receiving medical attention. The presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or other safety-net providers can mitigate some of these challenges, but their capacity and scope of services need to be assessed.

**Standout Practices and Quality of Care:**

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating factors beyond just the number of physicians. Quality of care is paramount. This includes assessing patient satisfaction scores, which can be gleaned from online reviews and patient surveys. Practices with consistently high ratings often demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, effective communication, and positive health outcomes.

Furthermore, the scope of services offered by each practice is important. Do they provide a comprehensive range of primary care services, including preventative care, chronic disease management, and basic diagnostic testing? The presence of specialized services, such as on-site labs or x-ray facilities, can significantly enhance convenience and improve the patient experience. Practices that have adopted electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals are also often considered more advanced, facilitating better communication and care coordination.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Impact:**

Telemedicine has emerged as a vital tool for expanding access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption rate within Seale is a key factor in the 'Overall Health Score'. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can offer virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring, and medication management, reducing the need for in-person visits and expanding the reach of healthcare providers.

The availability of reliable internet connectivity is a crucial enabler of telemedicine. Without robust internet infrastructure, the benefits of virtual care cannot be fully realized. The digital divide, where some residents lack access to affordable and reliable internet, can exacerbate existing health disparities. An assessment of internet access rates within the ZIP code is therefore essential.

**Mental Health Resources and Support:**

Mental health is an integral component of overall well-being, and the availability of mental health resources significantly impacts the 'Overall Health Score'. Access to psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors is critical. The ratio of mental health providers to the population in Seale needs to be evaluated. A shortage of mental health professionals can lead to long wait times for appointments and limited access to necessary care.

The presence of community mental health centers, support groups, and crisis intervention services can bolster the mental health infrastructure. Schools, churches, and other community organizations can also play a role in providing mental health support and promoting mental health awareness. The integration of mental health services into primary care settings is also beneficial, as it can facilitate early detection and treatment of mental health conditions.

**Overall Health Score Conclusion:**

Without specific data, a definitive 'Overall Health Score' for Seale, Alabama (36875) is impossible. However, based on the likely challenges faced by rural communities, it is probable that the score might be negatively impacted by factors such as physician shortages, limited access to specialized services, and potential barriers to telemedicine adoption. The strength of the community's mental health resources and the quality of the existing primary care practices will be crucial determinants of the score. Further investigation, including data analysis from HRSA, local healthcare providers, and community stakeholders, is necessary for a more precise assessment.

The 'Overall Health Score' is not static. It can be improved through strategic interventions, such as recruiting and retaining physicians, expanding telemedicine capabilities, and investing in mental health resources. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government is essential to create a healthier community.

**Call to Action:**

To visualize the healthcare landscape of Seale, Alabama, and gain a deeper understanding of the factors influencing the 'Overall Health Score', explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides powerful tools for analyzing geographic data, identifying healthcare access gaps, and visualizing health disparities.