36915, Needham, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 36915, Needham, Alabama is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.10 percent of the residents in 36915 has some form of health insurance. 46.02 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.51 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 36915 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 113 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36915. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 144 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 40 health care providers accessible to residents in 36915, Needham, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 36915 & Primary Care Availability in Needham

This analysis provides an overall health score assessment for two distinct geographical areas: the availability and quality of healthcare services within ZIP code 36915 and the primary care landscape in Needham, Massachusetts. The evaluation considers physician-to-patient ratios, prominent medical practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. Each area presents unique challenges and opportunities in delivering comprehensive healthcare.

**ZIP Code 36915: A Rural Healthcare Profile**

ZIP code 36915, likely representing a rural or underserved area, faces significant hurdles in healthcare access. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A low ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, suggests potential difficulties in securing timely appointments, leading to delayed diagnoses and treatment. This scarcity can strain existing medical professionals, impacting their workload and potentially affecting the quality of care. Further investigation into the specialties available within the ZIP code is necessary. Are there general practitioners, or is the area reliant on specialists who may be less accessible? The presence of specialists like cardiologists, endocrinologists, and oncologists is vital for managing chronic diseases, which are often more prevalent in rural populations.

Standout practices in 36915, if any, would be crucial to the overall health score. These practices might demonstrate innovative approaches to overcome rural healthcare challenges. Are they utilizing mobile clinics to reach remote communities? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate patients with limited transportation options? The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) is also a key factor. EHRs facilitate better coordination of care, allowing physicians to share patient information securely and efficiently. This is especially important in rural areas where patients may see multiple providers.

Telemedicine adoption is particularly important in 36915. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, enabling patients to consult with specialists remotely, receive medication refills, and manage chronic conditions without traveling long distances. The availability of reliable internet access is a prerequisite for successful telemedicine implementation. The analysis should evaluate the availability of telehealth services, the types of services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), and the patient and provider satisfaction with these services.

Mental health resources are often lacking in rural areas. The analysis must assess the availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors. Are there mental health clinics or support groups within the ZIP code or nearby? Are these services accessible and affordable? The integration of mental health services into primary care settings is a promising strategy. This allows primary care physicians to screen for mental health issues and provide initial treatment or referrals. The analysis should investigate the extent to which this integration is occurring.

**Primary Care Availability in Needham, Massachusetts: A Suburban Perspective**

Needham, a suburban community, likely presents a different healthcare landscape compared to 36915. The physician-to-patient ratio is expected to be higher, indicating greater access to primary care physicians. However, this doesn't automatically translate to optimal healthcare. The analysis should delve into the types of primary care practices available. Are there solo practices, large group practices, or affiliations with hospitals or health systems? The size and structure of practices can influence patient experience and care coordination.

Standout practices in Needham could be identified by their patient satisfaction scores, their innovative approaches to patient care, and their commitment to preventative medicine. Do they offer extended hours, same-day appointments, or online patient portals? Do they actively promote wellness programs and chronic disease management? The analysis should also consider the diversity of the physician workforce and the availability of language services to cater to the needs of a diverse population.

Telemedicine adoption in Needham is likely to be more prevalent than in 36915. However, the analysis should assess the specific telemedicine services offered, such as virtual visits, remote monitoring, and online patient education. The ease of access to these services and the patient and provider satisfaction with them are important factors. The integration of telemedicine into the practice workflow and the availability of technical support for patients are also crucial.

Mental health resources in Needham are likely to be more readily available than in 36915. However, the analysis should evaluate the accessibility and affordability of these resources. Are there mental health clinics, therapists, and psychiatrists within the community? Are there support groups or community-based programs? The analysis should also consider the integration of mental health services into primary care settings and the availability of mental health services for specific populations, such as children, adolescents, and the elderly.

**Overall Health Score Considerations & Comparative Analysis**

The overall health score for each area will be determined by weighting the factors discussed above. Physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption rates, and the availability of mental health resources will be key determinants. The analysis will also consider the quality of care, patient satisfaction, and the overall health outcomes of the population.

A comparative analysis between the two areas is essential. While 36915 may struggle with access to care, Needham could face challenges related to healthcare costs, insurance coverage, and the coordination of care within a complex healthcare system. The analysis will identify the strengths and weaknesses of each area and provide recommendations for improvement.

**Conclusion**

This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 36915 and Needham, Massachusetts. The overall health scores will reflect the complex interplay of factors that influence healthcare access, quality, and outcomes. Understanding these factors is essential for developing effective strategies to improve the health and well-being of the population.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in these areas, including the locations of medical practices, the availability of telemedicine services, and the distribution of mental health resources, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide valuable insights into the geographical distribution of healthcare services and help you make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.