36904, Butler, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 36904, Butler, Alabama is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.09 percent of the residents in 36904 has some form of health insurance. 40.71 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.00 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 36904 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 932 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36904. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 711 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 40 health care providers accessible to residents in 36904, Butler, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Butler, Alabama (ZIP Code 36904)

Analyzing the overall health landscape in Butler, Alabama, specifically within the 36904 ZIP code, requires a multi-faceted approach. We must consider various factors, from physician availability and practice quality to the integration of modern healthcare technologies and the accessibility of mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide an “Overall Health Score” assessment, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system.

The foundation of any health assessment lies in the availability of primary care physicians. In Butler, a rural community, physician-to-patient ratios are likely a crucial indicator. Nationally, the recommended ratio is around 1:1,300. However, rural areas often face challenges in recruiting and retaining physicians, potentially leading to higher patient-to-physician ratios. This can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and overall poorer health outcomes. Data on the precise physician-to-patient ratio within 36904 is critical for a complete assessment. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or state medical boards would be essential in determining this ratio.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of care provided by existing practices is paramount. Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several aspects. Patient reviews, available through platforms like Healthgrades or Vitals, offer valuable insights into patient satisfaction, communication skills, and the overall patient experience. The availability of specialized services within primary care practices, such as chronic disease management programs or preventative screenings, also contributes to the overall quality score. Furthermore, accreditation status, such as from the Joint Commission, signifies a commitment to quality and safety standards. Researching local practices and compiling this information would be essential for a detailed analysis.

The adoption of telemedicine is another crucial factor in evaluating the health score. Telemedicine offers numerous benefits, particularly in rural areas where geographical barriers limit access to care. It allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to specialists. Assessing the level of telemedicine adoption within Butler requires examining the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and the use of electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate seamless information sharing. Practices actively embracing telemedicine are likely to score higher in this category.

Mental health resources are a critical component of overall health. The availability of mental health services, including psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors, is a significant factor in the overall health score. Access to mental health services in rural areas can be particularly challenging. Assessing the availability of these services requires identifying local mental health providers, evaluating wait times for appointments, and determining the availability of specialized programs, such as substance abuse treatment or support groups. The presence of community mental health centers or partnerships with local hospitals can also positively impact the score.

The presence of a local hospital or clinic is a major factor in the availability of healthcare. The types of services offered, such as emergency care, inpatient care, and outpatient services, directly impact the overall health score. Evaluating the hospital's quality metrics, such as patient safety scores and readmission rates, provides further insight into the quality of care. Proximity to other hospitals and specialty care providers in neighboring towns or cities is also important, especially in cases where specialized care is not available locally.

The socioeconomic factors of the community must also be considered. Poverty rates, levels of education, and access to healthy food options can significantly impact health outcomes. These factors can influence the prevalence of chronic diseases and the overall health of the population. Data on these factors can be obtained from the U.S. Census Bureau and other sources.

The overall health score should not be a static number, but a dynamic assessment that reflects the changing healthcare landscape. Regular updates are necessary to track improvements and address any shortcomings. The score should be broken down into several sub-scores, reflecting the different categories discussed above. This allows for a more detailed analysis and identification of areas that need improvement.

In conclusion, evaluating the overall health score for Butler, Alabama (ZIP Code 36904) requires a comprehensive analysis that considers physician availability, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and socioeconomic factors. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system, and to identify areas where improvements are needed. This type of analysis is a snapshot in time, and should be reviewed regularly to reflect the changing healthcare landscape.

For a visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Butler, Alabama, and to explore physician locations, demographics, and other relevant data, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides powerful mapping tools that can help you visualize and analyze health data in a meaningful way.