35133, Remlap, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 35133, Remlap, Alabama is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.36 percent of the residents in 35133 has some form of health insurance. 37.55 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.71 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 35133 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 782 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35133. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 704 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 810 health care providers accessible to residents in 35133, Remlap, Alabama.

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment are complex, requiring a coordinated approach. This analysis assesses the landscape of breast cancer care within ZIP Code 35133 (primarily encompassing Remlap, Alabama) focusing on physician availability, practice characteristics, and access to supporting resources. The goal is to provide a data-driven perspective to help individuals navigate the healthcare system and understand the quality of care available locally.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator of access. In Remlap, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a foundational element. These doctors often serve as the initial point of contact, providing screening referrals and coordinating care. The national average PCP-to-patient ratio is around 1:1,380. However, rural areas often face shortages. Data specific to 35133 is essential to determine if the local ratio meets or falls short of national benchmarks. A low ratio could indicate challenges in scheduling appointments, leading to delayed diagnoses.

The presence of oncologists, surgeons specializing in breast cancer, and radiologists specializing in mammography is also crucial. A high concentration of these specialists within the ZIP Code or in close proximity signifies a robust network of care. Examining the number of board-certified specialists and their experience levels is vital. Furthermore, proximity to comprehensive cancer centers, even if outside the immediate ZIP Code, can significantly impact access to advanced treatments, clinical trials, and supportive services.

Standout practices distinguish themselves through several factors. Patient reviews, online ratings, and accreditations from organizations like the American College of Surgeons (for breast centers) provide insights into quality. Practices that embrace a multidisciplinary approach, involving surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and other specialists collaborating on patient care, often lead to better outcomes. Investigating the availability of patient navigators, who guide patients through the complexities of diagnosis and treatment, is also essential.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine can improve access to specialists, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and care accessibility. Examining the types of telemedicine services offered, the ease of use, and patient satisfaction with these services is crucial.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are vital for breast cancer patients. The emotional toll of diagnosis and treatment can be significant. Assessing the availability of mental health professionals, support groups, and counseling services within the community is essential. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care plans and offer referrals to therapists specializing in oncology demonstrate a holistic approach to patient well-being.

Specific practices within 35133 should be evaluated based on these criteria. For example, the presence of a practice with a dedicated breast center, offering comprehensive services from screening to survivorship, would be a significant positive factor. The availability of a practice that consistently receives high patient ratings and employs a multidisciplinary team would also be highly regarded. Identifying practices that actively embrace telemedicine and offer mental health support would further elevate their standing.

The analysis should also consider the availability of diagnostic imaging services, such as mammography and breast MRI. The presence of state-of-the-art imaging equipment and qualified radiologists is critical for accurate and timely diagnoses. Examining the wait times for imaging appointments and the availability of same-day or walk-in services is also important.

Furthermore, the analysis should assess the availability of patient education materials and resources. Practices that provide patients with clear and concise information about breast cancer, treatment options, and support services demonstrate a commitment to empowering patients to make informed decisions about their care. This includes providing information in multiple languages, if applicable, to cater to the diverse needs of the community.

The analysis should also consider the cost of care and the acceptance of various insurance plans. Understanding the financial implications of breast cancer treatment is crucial for patients. Practices that are transparent about their pricing and accept a wide range of insurance plans can help patients navigate the financial aspects of their care.

In conclusion, evaluating breast cancer care in 35133 requires a multifaceted approach. Assessing physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the availability of diagnostic services and patient education materials provides a comprehensive view. This analysis aims to provide valuable insights into the quality and accessibility of breast cancer care in the Remlap area, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare.

To visualize the distribution of healthcare resources and gain a deeper understanding of the breast cancer care landscape in Remlap and surrounding areas, explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. CartoChrome's platform can provide a geographic representation of physician locations, practice characteristics, and other relevant data points, allowing you to visualize the information and make more informed decisions about your healthcare journey.