35151, Sylacauga, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 35151, Sylacauga, Alabama is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.54 percent of the residents in 35151 has some form of health insurance. 38.62 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.06 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 35151 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,660 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35151. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,457 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 185 health care providers accessible to residents in 35151, Sylacauga, Alabama.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Sylacauga, AL (ZIP Code 35151)

Analyzing the landscape of breast cancer care within Sylacauga, Alabama (ZIP Code 35151) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis aims to assess the quality and accessibility of care, focusing on key factors that contribute to positive patient outcomes. We'll delve into physician availability, the presence of specialized services, the integration of technology, and the availability of crucial mental health support. The ultimate goal is to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" analysis, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on the availability of qualified medical professionals. In Sylacauga, the physician-to-patient ratio for primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical starting point. A low ratio can indicate potential challenges in accessing timely appointments for routine screenings and referrals. This, in turn, can lead to delayed diagnoses and treatment. Data regarding the specific physician-to-patient ratio in 35151 is essential, requiring access to publicly available data from sources like the US Census Bureau and the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners. Furthermore, we need to ascertain the number of general surgeons and oncologists practicing within the area or accessible within a reasonable travel distance. The presence of these specialists is paramount for providing comprehensive diagnostic and treatment services, including surgical interventions, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of care is significantly impacted by the presence of standout practices. Identifying practices that demonstrate a commitment to excellence in breast cancer care is crucial. This includes evaluating factors such as accreditation by recognized organizations like the American College of Surgeons' Commission on Cancer, the utilization of evidence-based treatment protocols, and patient satisfaction ratings. Researching local practices, including those affiliated with larger healthcare systems, is essential. Examining their websites, patient reviews, and publicly available performance data will provide valuable insights into their commitment to quality care.

Technology plays an increasingly important role in modern healthcare, and its adoption in Sylacauga is a key consideration. Telemedicine, for example, offers the potential to improve access to specialists, particularly for patients in rural areas. Assessing the availability of telehealth consultations for breast cancer-related services, such as follow-up appointments, consultations with oncologists, and access to support groups, is essential. The presence of advanced imaging technologies, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), is another factor to evaluate. These technologies can improve the detection of breast cancer, particularly in women with dense breasts.

The emotional and psychological impact of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment cannot be overstated. Access to mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive care. This includes the availability of licensed therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in breast cancer. Assessing the presence of these resources within Sylacauga, or in neighboring communities, is crucial. Furthermore, the integration of mental health services within the local healthcare system, such as offering on-site counseling or referrals to mental health professionals, is a positive indicator.

Primary care availability is the gateway to early detection and preventative care. The accessibility of PCPs in Sylacauga directly influences the likelihood of women receiving regular screenings, such as mammograms and clinical breast exams. Assessing the number of PCPs accepting new patients, the average wait times for appointments, and the availability of evening or weekend hours are all important factors. Furthermore, the integration of PCPs into a coordinated care system, where they can easily refer patients to specialists and share medical records, is a significant advantage.

The overall "Breast Cancer Score" for Sylacauga, AL (35151) will be a composite score, reflecting the strengths and weaknesses across all these categories. The score will provide a snapshot of the healthcare landscape and highlight areas where improvements are needed. A high score will indicate a robust healthcare system with readily available specialists, advanced technology, and comprehensive support services. A lower score will indicate potential challenges in accessing care and areas where resources may be lacking.

In conclusion, the quality of breast cancer care in Sylacauga, AL (35151) hinges on a combination of factors. Physician availability, the presence of specialized services, technological integration, and access to mental health resources all play a crucial role. By carefully evaluating these factors, we can gain a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare ecosystem and identify areas where improvements are needed to ensure the best possible outcomes for patients. This analysis highlights the importance of data-driven decision-making in healthcare and the need for ongoing monitoring and evaluation to ensure that all residents have access to high-quality care.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Sylacauga, AL (35151) and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, consider utilizing the powerful mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. Their platform can provide valuable insights into physician locations, hospital proximity, and access to specialized services, enabling you to make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.