35172, Trafford, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 35172, Trafford, Alabama is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.14 percent of the residents in 35172 has some form of health insurance. 37.78 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.41 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 35172 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 552 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35172. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 439 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,187 health care providers accessible to residents in 35172, Trafford, Alabama.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Trafford, Alabama (ZIP Code 35172)

This analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of breast cancer care within the Trafford, Alabama (ZIP Code 35172) area, focusing on primary care physician availability, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resource integration. The goal is to understand the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape concerning breast cancer detection, treatment, and patient support. This analysis considers publicly available data, industry reports, and general healthcare trends.

Trafford, a small community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. The limited population density often translates to fewer healthcare providers and resources compared to more urban settings. This necessitates a careful evaluation of the existing infrastructure and its ability to meet the specific needs of breast cancer patients.

**Primary Care Physician Availability and Physician-to-Patient Ratios:**

The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in accessible primary care. Regular check-ups, screenings, and early detection are crucial. Assessing the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) in Trafford is paramount. Data from the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and the Alabama Department of Public Health should be consulted to determine the current PCP-to-population ratio. Ideally, a ratio of approximately 1:1,500 or lower is desirable, indicating a reasonable level of access. However, in rural areas like Trafford, this ratio may be higher, potentially indicating a shortage of PCPs.

The analysis should also consider the age and experience of the existing PCPs. Are there enough young physicians entering the field to ensure continuity of care? Are there enough experienced physicians to provide mentorship and guidance? Furthermore, the geographic distribution of PCPs within the ZIP code is important. Are they concentrated in one area, or are they spread out to serve the entire community? This impacts patient access and travel times.

**Standout Practices and Their Approaches:**

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive into the quality of care offered. This includes assessing the practices' commitment to evidence-based medicine, patient satisfaction scores, and the availability of specialized services. Practices that actively promote breast cancer screening, such as mammograms, are crucial. These practices should have established protocols for patient education, risk assessment, and referral to specialists when necessary.

Furthermore, the analysis should examine the practices' use of technology. Are they utilizing electronic health records (EHRs) to facilitate communication and coordination of care? Do they have patient portals that allow patients to access their medical information and communicate with their providers? Practices that embrace technology are often better equipped to provide efficient and patient-centered care.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Impact:**

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for expanding healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. The analysis should evaluate the extent of telemedicine adoption among the PCPs and specialists serving Trafford. Are virtual consultations available for routine follow-ups, medication management, and mental health support? Telemedicine can reduce travel burdens, improve patient convenience, and enhance access to specialists who may not be located in the immediate area.

The effectiveness of telemedicine depends on several factors, including the availability of reliable internet access, patient comfort with technology, and the willingness of providers to embrace virtual care. The analysis should assess these factors and identify any barriers to telemedicine adoption in Trafford.

**Mental Health Resources and Integration:**

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a significant impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Access to mental health resources is therefore a critical component of comprehensive care. The analysis should investigate the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, in the Trafford area. Are these professionals integrated into the primary care practices, or are patients required to seek services separately?

The analysis should also consider the availability of support groups, educational programs, and other resources that can help patients cope with the emotional challenges of breast cancer. Practices that prioritize mental health support often demonstrate a greater understanding of the holistic needs of their patients.

**Specific Considerations for Trafford:**

Given the rural nature of Trafford, the analysis should address specific challenges. Transportation may be a significant barrier to accessing healthcare services. The analysis should consider the availability of transportation assistance programs or partnerships with local organizations to help patients get to their appointments.

Furthermore, the analysis should examine the cultural sensitivity of the healthcare providers. Are they aware of the unique needs and concerns of the community they serve? Do they provide culturally competent care that respects patients' beliefs and values?

**Concluding Remarks:**

A thorough analysis of breast cancer care in Trafford requires a multifaceted approach, considering physician availability, technology adoption, and mental health integration. The findings should be used to identify areas for improvement and to develop strategies for enhancing the quality of care.

The assessment should also consider the impact of socioeconomic factors on access to care. Are there disparities in access to screening and treatment based on income, insurance coverage, or other factors? Addressing these disparities is essential to ensuring that all residents of Trafford have equal opportunities to receive the care they need.

**CartoChrome Maps: Visualize the Data:**

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Trafford and to visualize the data presented in this analysis, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, resource availability, and other relevant data, allowing for a more comprehensive and insightful analysis. Explore the potential of CartoChrome maps to uncover hidden patterns and gain a clearer perspective on the healthcare landscape in your area.