35186, Wilsonville, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 35186, Wilsonville, Alabama is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.30 percent of the residents in 35186 has some form of health insurance. 31.66 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.45 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 35186 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,137 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35186. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,032 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,790 health care providers accessible to residents in 35186, Wilsonville, Alabama.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Wilsonville, Alabama (ZIP Code 35186)**

This analysis examines the landscape of breast cancer care within Wilsonville, Alabama (ZIP code 35186), focusing on the availability and quality of primary care physicians, their preparedness for breast cancer detection and management, and the surrounding healthcare infrastructure. It aims to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, considering factors crucial to patient outcomes, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health resources.

Wilsonville, a relatively small community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare access. The success of early detection and treatment of breast cancer hinges on a robust primary care foundation. This includes readily available physicians capable of providing preventative screenings, patient education, and timely referrals to specialists. The analysis will delve into these areas, providing a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare ecosystem.

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

A critical indicator of healthcare access is the physician-to-patient ratio. In Wilsonville, the availability of primary care physicians directly impacts the ability of residents to receive timely screenings and care. A low physician-to-patient ratio can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Data on the exact physician-to-patient ratio within 35186 requires specific local datasets, but we can assess the overall availability based on publicly available information. This includes the number of primary care physicians practicing in the area, the presence of urgent care facilities, and the proximity to larger medical centers in neighboring cities like Birmingham.

The presence of a sufficient number of primary care physicians is the first step. The quality of care provided by these physicians is equally important. This includes their familiarity with breast cancer screening guidelines, their willingness to perform clinical breast exams, and their ability to educate patients about risk factors and self-examination techniques. Furthermore, the ability to efficiently refer patients to specialists, such as radiologists and oncologists, is vital.

**Standout Practices and Their Impact**

Identifying "standout practices" involves evaluating those that demonstrate a commitment to breast cancer care. This may include practices that offer comprehensive screening services, such as mammograms and breast ultrasounds, on-site. It also encompasses practices that actively participate in community outreach programs, educating residents about breast cancer awareness and prevention. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient data and facilitate referrals are also considered to be more advanced.

The presence of such practices can significantly improve the "Breast Cancer Score" for the area. Their commitment to providing high-quality care and their ability to efficiently manage patient needs can set a positive example for other practices and improve the overall standard of care in the community.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Role**

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare, particularly in rural areas with limited access to specialists. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care physicians in Wilsonville can significantly improve access to breast cancer care. Telemedicine can be used for various purposes, including:

* **Consultations:** Allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to expert opinions.
* **Follow-up appointments:** Conducting follow-up appointments for patients undergoing treatment, reducing the burden on both patients and physicians.
* **Patient education:** Providing educational resources and support to patients remotely.

The extent of telemedicine adoption within Wilsonville's primary care practices directly impacts the "Breast Cancer Score." Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to improving patient access and convenience, ultimately leading to better outcomes.

**Mental Health Resources and Their Significance**

The diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer can have a significant impact on a patient's mental health. Access to mental health resources is therefore crucial for comprehensive care. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups. Primary care physicians play a critical role in identifying patients who may be struggling with mental health issues and referring them to appropriate resources.

The availability of mental health resources within Wilsonville is a critical component of the "Breast Cancer Score." Practices that prioritize the mental well-being of their patients and provide access to mental health support contribute significantly to a more holistic approach to care.

**Overall Assessment and Conclusion**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Wilsonville, Alabama (ZIP code 35186) is a complex assessment that requires a thorough evaluation of all the factors discussed above. The availability of primary care physicians, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and access to mental health resources all contribute to the overall score.

Improving the "Breast Cancer Score" requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes:

* **Increasing the number of primary care physicians:** Addressing physician shortages to improve access to care.
* **Supporting and promoting standout practices:** Recognizing and rewarding practices that demonstrate a commitment to breast cancer care.
* **Encouraging telemedicine adoption:** Providing resources and training to help practices embrace telemedicine.
* **Expanding access to mental health resources:** Ensuring that patients have access to the mental health support they need.

By focusing on these areas, Wilsonville can improve its healthcare infrastructure and provide better care for its residents. The ultimate goal is to improve the early detection of breast cancer, increase survival rates, and improve the overall quality of life for patients.

**Call to Action**

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Wilsonville, Alabama, and to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, we encourage you to explore the power of spatial data analysis. CartoChrome maps provide a dynamic and interactive platform for visualizing healthcare data, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and demographic information. By utilizing CartoChrome, you can gain valuable insights into the accessibility and availability of healthcare services in your community.