36922, Ward, Alabama Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 36922, Ward, Alabama is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.50 percent of the residents in 36922 has some form of health insurance. 59.94 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 35.08 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 36922 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 250 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36922. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 133 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 37 health care providers accessible to residents in 36922, Ward, Alabama.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 36922 and Primary Care Availability in Ward

This analysis delves into the overall health landscape within ZIP Code 36922 and the broader context of primary care availability in the hypothetical Ward encompassing it. We'll examine key indicators to formulate an "Overall Health Score," considering physician-to-patient ratios, notable practices, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and potential areas for improvement.

Analyzing the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical starting point. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per resident, often translates to longer wait times, reduced access to care, and potentially poorer health outcomes. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility. Within 36922, data indicates a moderate physician-to-patient ratio. While not alarmingly low, it suggests potential strain on the existing medical infrastructure, particularly during peak demand or in the face of unexpected health crises. Further investigation into the specific specializations available is also necessary, as a high ratio of specialists doesn't necessarily compensate for a lack of primary care physicians.

Identifying standout practices within 36922 is essential for understanding the quality of care available. These practices often serve as models for best practices and can significantly impact the overall health score. This involves evaluating factors like patient satisfaction scores, the range of services offered, the adoption of innovative technologies, and the practice's commitment to community outreach. Without specific practice names, this analysis must consider the hypothetical scenario. A practice with a strong emphasis on preventative care, incorporating advanced diagnostic tools, and offering extended hours would significantly elevate the overall health score.

The adoption of telemedicine is another crucial factor. Telemedicine, encompassing virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, has the potential to significantly improve access to care, particularly for residents in rural or underserved areas. Its adoption within 36922, therefore, is a crucial indicator. Practices embracing telemedicine are likely to achieve higher scores. The extent of telemedicine integration – whether it's limited to simple video calls or encompasses comprehensive remote monitoring capabilities – will further influence the score.

Mental health resources are an integral part of overall health. The availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors, is a vital component of the health score. The presence of these professionals, along with the availability of mental health support groups, crisis intervention services, and access to psychiatric medications, directly impacts the community's well-being. A lack of mental health resources will undoubtedly lower the health score, reflecting a critical unmet need within the community.

Now, consider the broader context of primary care availability within the hypothetical Ward. The distribution of primary care physicians across the Ward is a key factor. Are the physicians concentrated in a single area, or are they dispersed throughout the Ward, providing equitable access to care for all residents? The presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or other community health clinics, which often serve vulnerable populations, can significantly boost the health score.

Furthermore, the availability of specialized services within the Ward needs consideration. Are there specialists in areas like cardiology, endocrinology, and gastroenterology? The proximity of these specialists can significantly impact the overall health of the community. Patients may need to travel long distances to receive specialized care, which can be a barrier to accessing necessary treatment.

The integration of health information technology (HIT) across practices within 36922 and the Ward is also important. The ability to share patient information electronically, coordinate care across different providers, and utilize data analytics to improve health outcomes is critical in modern healthcare. Practices that have adopted HIT systems are more likely to achieve higher scores.

Analyzing the demographic makeup of the population within 36922 and the Ward is crucial. The health needs of different demographic groups can vary significantly. For example, older adults may require more chronic disease management, while children may require more preventative care. The health score must reflect the ability of the healthcare system to address the specific needs of the population.

The presence of health education programs and community outreach initiatives also plays a role. Programs that promote healthy lifestyles, such as exercise classes, nutrition workshops, and smoking cessation programs, can contribute to improved health outcomes. The health score should reflect the availability and effectiveness of these programs.

Finally, the overall health score for 36922 and the Ward is a composite measure. It reflects the interplay of all these factors. A high score indicates good access to care, a robust healthcare infrastructure, and a commitment to the overall well-being of the community. A low score, conversely, indicates challenges in access, a potential shortage of resources, and a need for improvement. The score is not a static measure; it must be regularly updated and refined as the healthcare landscape evolves.

To truly visualize and understand the healthcare landscape of 36922 and the Ward, consider exploring the data geographically. CartoChrome maps can provide a powerful visual representation of physician distribution, service availability, and demographic data. They offer a valuable tool for identifying areas of need, assessing resource allocation, and planning for future healthcare initiatives.