35035, Brierfield, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 35035, Brierfield, Alabama is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 78.91 percent of the residents in 35035 has some form of health insurance. 29.97 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.37 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 35035 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 241 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35035. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 106 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 935 health care providers accessible to residents in 35035, Brierfield, Alabama.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Brierfield, Alabama (ZIP Code 35035)

Analyzing the landscape of breast cancer care within Brierfield, Alabama (ZIP Code 35035), requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score," aims to evaluate the accessibility, quality, and breadth of services available to residents, particularly focusing on primary care physician (PCP) availability and its influence on early detection and treatment. The score considers factors beyond simple physician counts, encompassing the adoption of modern practices, the availability of supportive resources, and the overall patient experience.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in robust primary care. In Brierfield, primary care physician availability is a crucial starting point. A low physician-to-patient ratio immediately presents a challenge. If the ratio is unfavorable, patients may face extended wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and consultations. This delay can have significant consequences, particularly for early detection, which is critical for successful treatment outcomes.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Does the available primary care include physicians with a strong track record in preventative care, specifically breast cancer screening and referral? Are they actively promoting mammography and clinical breast exams according to established guidelines? Furthermore, the integration of electronic health records (EHRs) is vital. EHRs facilitate seamless information sharing between primary care physicians, specialists, and patients, streamlining the diagnostic and treatment process.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical aspect. The ability to consult with a physician remotely, especially for initial consultations, follow-up appointments, and discussing test results, can significantly improve access to care, particularly for residents in rural areas like Brierfield. Telemedicine can reduce travel burdens, especially for patients with mobility issues or those residing far from major medical centers. Its presence and utilization contribute positively to the "Breast Cancer Score."

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked, yet essential component of comprehensive breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer can be emotionally devastating. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in supporting cancer patients is crucial. Access to support groups, both in-person and online, can provide a vital network of support and shared experiences, aiding patients in coping with the psychological challenges of the disease. The integration of mental health services within the primary care setting, or readily available referrals, is a significant factor.

Evaluating specific practices within Brierfield requires a deeper dive. Identifying standout practices involves assessing their commitment to preventative care, their patient satisfaction ratings, and their integration of technology. Do practices offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate patient schedules? Are they actively participating in community outreach programs to raise awareness about breast cancer and promote early detection? Practices that demonstrate a patient-centered approach, prioritizing communication, empathy, and comprehensive care, will naturally score higher.

The availability of specialized care, while not directly within primary care, is also indirectly relevant. The proximity to oncologists, surgeons, and radiation therapists is a factor. The ease of access to these specialists, through efficient referral networks and streamlined communication, is critical for timely and effective treatment. The "Breast Cancer Score" considers the overall network of care available to patients in the Brierfield area.

The "Breast Cancer Score" also considers the availability of resources beyond medical care. Are there local organizations offering financial assistance to patients struggling with the costs of treatment? Are there support groups specifically for breast cancer survivors and their families? The availability of these resources can alleviate some of the burdens associated with the disease, improving the overall patient experience and contributing to a more positive outlook.

Analyzing the "Breast Cancer Score" also involves considering the demographics of the population. Are there specific challenges faced by certain demographic groups, such as disparities in access to care or cultural barriers to screening? Addressing these disparities is crucial for ensuring equitable access to high-quality breast cancer care for all residents of Brierfield.

The score is not a static number. It should be updated regularly to reflect changes in physician availability, technology adoption, and the availability of supportive resources. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential for identifying areas for improvement and ensuring that residents of Brierfield have access to the best possible breast cancer care. This includes assessing the effectiveness of any community outreach programs aimed at increasing screening rates or promoting healthy lifestyles.

The final "Breast Cancer Score" for Brierfield (ZIP Code 35035) is a composite measure, reflecting the interplay of all these factors. A high score indicates a strong healthcare ecosystem, with accessible primary care, advanced technologies, and comprehensive support services. A low score highlights areas where improvements are needed, such as increasing physician availability, expanding telemedicine adoption, and enhancing mental health resources. The score should be used as a tool to inform decision-making, guide resource allocation, and ultimately improve the lives of those affected by breast cancer in Brierfield.

To gain a comprehensive visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Brierfield and surrounding areas, including physician locations, specialist availability, and resource locations, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps.