35183, Weogufka, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 35183, Weogufka, Alabama is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.84 percent of the residents in 35183 has some form of health insurance. 47.10 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 83.14 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 35183 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 39 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35183. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 358 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 218 health care providers accessible to residents in 35183, Weogufka, Alabama.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Weogufka, AL (ZIP Code 35183)

Analyzing the landscape of breast cancer care within Weogufka, Alabama (ZIP code 35183) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers physician availability, particularly primary care physicians (PCPs), as the cornerstone of early detection and referral pathways. It also examines the presence of specialized breast cancer services, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial for comprehensive patient care. This analysis aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the strengths and weaknesses within this specific geographic area.

The foundation of any breast cancer care ecosystem is the availability of primary care. Weogufka, a relatively rural area, likely faces challenges in this regard. Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to delayed appointments, reduced screening opportunities, and overall diminished access to care. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and the Alabama Department of Public Health would be necessary to determine the precise PCP-to-patient ratio within ZIP code 35183. However, based on the area's demographics and rural nature, it is reasonable to anticipate a potential shortage, which could negatively impact the "Breast Cancer Score."

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care matters. Practices demonstrating a proactive approach to breast cancer screening, such as regular mammogram recommendations and patient education, would score higher. These practices would ideally have robust systems for tracking patient screening compliance and facilitating timely referrals to specialists if needed. Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive into individual physician profiles, patient reviews, and practice characteristics. This includes examining their adherence to national guidelines, their use of electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient data management, and their overall commitment to preventative care.

Specialized breast cancer services, while not typically offered directly within primary care, are vital for comprehensive treatment. The availability of oncologists, breast surgeons, and radiation oncologists within a reasonable driving distance significantly impacts patient outcomes. For Weogufka residents, access to these specialists might necessitate travel to larger cities like Birmingham or Montgomery. This distance factor adds complexity to the care continuum, potentially impacting patient adherence to treatment plans and increasing the burden of care. The "Breast Cancer Score" would reflect the accessibility of these specialized services, considering travel time, transportation options, and the availability of support services for patients traveling for treatment.

Telemedicine adoption is a critical component of modern healthcare, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine offers the potential to overcome geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely, receive follow-up care, and participate in support groups without extensive travel. The extent to which primary care practices and specialist providers in the region have embraced telemedicine directly affects the "Breast Cancer Score." This includes assessing the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and the ease with which patients can access and utilize these technologies. Practices that actively promote and integrate telemedicine into their care models would score favorably.

The emotional and psychological impact of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment is profound. The integration of mental health resources is therefore a crucial element of comprehensive care. Practices that offer on-site counseling services, referrals to mental health professionals specializing in cancer care, or access to support groups would receive a higher score. The presence of these resources demonstrates a commitment to addressing the holistic needs of patients, improving their quality of life, and enhancing their overall treatment experience. This aspect is often overlooked but plays a significant role in patient well-being and adherence to treatment plans.

Furthermore, the "Breast Cancer Score" would consider the presence of patient navigators or care coordinators. These individuals play a crucial role in guiding patients through the complex healthcare system, coordinating appointments, providing emotional support, and ensuring access to resources. The availability of patient navigation services can significantly improve patient outcomes and reduce the burden of navigating the healthcare system.

In conclusion, assessing the "Breast Cancer Score" for doctors in ZIP code 35183 and primary care availability in Weogufka is a complex undertaking. It requires a thorough examination of physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of primary care practices, the accessibility of specialized breast cancer services, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. While this analysis provides a framework for evaluating these factors, a comprehensive assessment would necessitate detailed data collection and analysis. The challenges of rural healthcare, including potential physician shortages and geographic barriers, must be carefully considered. The ultimate goal is to identify areas for improvement and ensure that residents of Weogufka have access to the best possible breast cancer care.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Weogufka, including physician locations, access to care, and other relevant data, explore CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide valuable insights into the geographic distribution of healthcare resources and help identify areas where improvements are needed.