35213, Birmingham, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 35213, Birmingham, Alabama is 91 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.27 percent of the residents in 35213 has some form of health insurance. 13.62 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 93.56 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 35213 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,850 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 115 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35213. An estimate of 103 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,027 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 30,025 health care providers accessible to residents in 35213, Birmingham, Alabama.

Breast cancer is a significant health concern, and access to quality care is paramount. This analysis delves into the landscape of breast cancer care within ZIP code 35213 in Birmingham, Alabama, evaluating the availability of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of telemedicine, and the presence of mental health resources. This information is crucial for patients navigating their healthcare journey and for healthcare providers striving to improve their services.

The primary care physician (PCP) is often the first point of contact for patients, and their availability directly impacts access to breast cancer screening and early detection. In ZIP code 35213, the availability of PCPs is a critical factor. The density of PCPs within this specific area, compared to the overall population, provides a snapshot of access. A lower physician-to-patient ratio generally indicates better access to care. However, this is not the only factor. The type of practice, the insurance accepted, and the patient's individual needs also play a significant role.

Birmingham, as a larger metropolitan area, offers a diverse range of primary care practices. Some practices may stand out due to their specialized focus, patient reviews, and their proactive approach to preventative care. This can include actively promoting breast cancer screenings, providing educational materials, and offering personalized risk assessments. Identifying these standout practices is vital for patients seeking comprehensive care. This involves examining factors such as the practice’s accreditation, the experience of the physicians, and the availability of on-site diagnostic services.

Telemedicine has become increasingly important in healthcare, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Its adoption in breast cancer care can significantly improve access, especially for patients with mobility issues, those living in remote areas, or those who simply prefer the convenience of virtual consultations. Evaluating the extent of telemedicine adoption among primary care practices in 35213 is crucial. This includes assessing the availability of virtual appointments for initial consultations, follow-up visits, and discussing test results.

The emotional toll of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can be substantial. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of comprehensive care. Primary care practices should ideally have established connections with mental health professionals or offer on-site counseling services. Assessing the availability of these resources within the 35213 ZIP code involves examining whether practices have partnerships with mental health providers, offer referrals, or have integrated mental health services into their care model.

Analyzing the physician-to-patient ratio within 35213 requires accessing data from various sources, including the U.S. Census Bureau and the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners. This data provides insights into the number of PCPs practicing within the specified ZIP code and the corresponding population. A lower ratio indicates a greater availability of PCPs, potentially leading to easier access to care. However, this data alone is insufficient. It is essential to consider factors like the types of insurance accepted, the patient load of each physician, and the practice's appointment scheduling policies.

Standout practices in the area may distinguish themselves through their commitment to preventative care, patient education, and advanced diagnostic capabilities. Researching patient reviews, practice accreditations, and the experience of the physicians can help identify these practices. Practices that actively promote breast cancer screenings, offer personalized risk assessments, and provide comprehensive patient education materials are often highly regarded. Furthermore, practices that have integrated diagnostic services, such as mammography and ultrasound, on-site can improve patient convenience and expedite the diagnostic process.

The adoption of telemedicine in primary care practices within 35213 can significantly impact patient access to care. Assessing the availability of virtual consultations for various services, including initial consultations, follow-up visits, and discussing test results, is crucial. Practices that offer telemedicine options can improve access for patients who may have mobility issues, live in remote areas, or simply prefer the convenience of virtual appointments. Furthermore, telemedicine can facilitate communication between patients and their healthcare providers, leading to improved patient engagement and adherence to treatment plans.

The availability of mental health resources is essential for providing comprehensive breast cancer care. Primary care practices that have established connections with mental health professionals or offer on-site counseling services can provide crucial support for patients. Assessing the availability of these resources involves examining whether practices have partnerships with mental health providers, offer referrals, or have integrated mental health services into their care model. Early intervention and access to mental health support can significantly improve patient outcomes and overall well-being.

In conclusion, the breast cancer care landscape in ZIP code 35213 presents a complex picture. The availability of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of telemedicine, and the presence of mental health resources all contribute to the overall quality of care. While a lower physician-to-patient ratio may suggest better access, other factors, such as the type of practice, the insurance accepted, and the availability of telemedicine and mental health resources, play crucial roles. Identifying standout practices and assessing the integration of telemedicine and mental health services are vital for patients seeking comprehensive and supportive breast cancer care.

To visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, physician density, and other relevant data points within ZIP code 35213 and the broader Birmingham area, explore CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps offer a dynamic and informative way to understand the healthcare landscape and make informed decisions about your care.