35147, Sterrett, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 35147, Sterrett, Alabama is 96 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.85 percent of the residents in 35147 has some form of health insurance. 28.58 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.16 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 35147 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,565 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35147. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 721 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,964 health care providers accessible to residents in 35147, Sterrett, Alabama.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Sterrett, Alabama (ZIP Code 35147)

This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive overview of breast cancer care access and quality for residents of Sterrett, Alabama (ZIP Code 35147). We will examine the availability of primary care physicians, assess physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, evaluate telemedicine adoption, and explore the presence of mental health resources, all crucial factors in a patient's journey through breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship. The goal is to paint a clear picture of the local healthcare landscape, ultimately informing residents about their options and empowering them to make informed decisions about their health.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in accessible and proactive primary care. Sterrett, as a relatively rural area, likely faces challenges common to such locations. The availability of primary care physicians is a critical starting point. We must ascertain the number of practicing primary care physicians within the ZIP code and surrounding areas. This data provides a preliminary understanding of the physician-to-patient ratio, a key indicator of access. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and potentially poorer health outcomes.

Beyond the raw number of physicians, the distribution of these doctors within the community is important. Are the primary care practices concentrated in one area, potentially creating access barriers for residents in other parts of Sterrett? Are there any community health centers or federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) that provide care to underserved populations? These factors contribute to a more nuanced understanding of primary care availability.

The quality of primary care is also paramount. Does the existing primary care infrastructure offer comprehensive services, including routine screenings like mammograms and clinical breast exams? Are there established referral pathways to specialists, such as oncologists and surgeons, who are crucial for breast cancer diagnosis and treatment? The presence of a well-coordinated healthcare system, with efficient communication and collaboration between primary care physicians and specialists, is a significant advantage for patients.

To assess the quality of care, we need to identify and analyze standout practices within the area. This involves looking beyond the basic metrics and evaluating factors such as patient satisfaction scores, the adoption of evidence-based practices, and the use of technology to enhance patient care. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives and demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care should be recognized.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for expanding access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices and specialists in Sterrett is an important consideration. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring, reducing the need for patients to travel long distances for care. This is especially beneficial for patients undergoing cancer treatment, who may experience fatigue and other side effects that make travel difficult.

The mental and emotional well-being of breast cancer patients is often overlooked, but it is a crucial aspect of their overall health. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is a key factor in assessing the quality of breast cancer care. Does Sterrett have access to these resources? Are there any programs specifically designed to support breast cancer patients and their families? The presence of these resources can significantly improve patients' quality of life and help them cope with the challenges of diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship.

Analyzing the availability of these resources requires a thorough investigation. We must determine the number of mental health professionals practicing in the area, the types of services they offer, and whether they accept insurance. The presence of support groups, either in person or online, is also a positive indicator. These groups provide a safe space for patients to share their experiences, receive emotional support, and learn from others who have faced similar challenges.

The overall "Breast Cancer Score" for Sterrett, Alabama (ZIP Code 35147) will be a composite measure reflecting the factors discussed above. The score will consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The score will also take into account the presence of any standout practices and the level of coordination between healthcare providers.

A high score indicates a well-resourced healthcare environment with good access to care, high-quality services, and comprehensive support for breast cancer patients. A low score, conversely, highlights areas for improvement and suggests that residents may face challenges in accessing the care they need.

To gain a more detailed understanding of the healthcare landscape in Sterrett, Alabama, and to visualize the data geographically, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that allow you to visualize healthcare data, identify healthcare providers, and assess access to care in your community. This can be a powerful tool for making informed decisions about your health and advocating for improved healthcare services in your area.