35214, Birmingham, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 35214, Birmingham, Alabama is 91 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.22 percent of the residents in 35214 has some form of health insurance. 45.63 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.96 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 35214 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,646 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 115 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35214. An estimate of 109 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,799 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 29,469 health care providers accessible to residents in 35214, Birmingham, Alabama.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Birmingham, AL (ZIP Code 35214)

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of breast cancer care within ZIP code 35214 in Birmingham, Alabama, focusing on primary care physician access and related resources. The goal is to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" based on several key indicators, ultimately informing residents about their healthcare options and encouraging proactive health management.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on robust primary care. Early detection through regular screenings and prompt referrals is crucial. In 35214, the physician-to-patient ratio serves as a critical metric. A higher ratio, indicating more patients per physician, can potentially limit access to timely appointments and comprehensive care. Data from sources like the American Medical Association (AMA) and the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners are essential to determine this ratio. The analysis would need to consider the number of active, practicing primary care physicians within the zip code and compare it to the estimated population. This comparison provides a baseline understanding of access.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care significantly impacts breast cancer outcomes. We must examine the practices within 35214, looking for those that excel in preventative care, particularly breast cancer screenings. This includes examining their adherence to guidelines from organizations like the American Cancer Society (ACS) and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN). Factors to consider include the availability of mammography services onsite or through close partnerships, the use of electronic health records (EHRs) for tracking patient screening schedules, and the practice's commitment to patient education about breast cancer risk factors and self-exams.

Standout practices will demonstrate a proactive approach. This means actively reaching out to patients to schedule screenings, providing clear and accessible information about breast health, and fostering a strong patient-physician relationship built on trust and open communication. These practices would be identified through a combination of publicly available data, patient reviews (while acknowledging the inherent limitations of such reviews), and potentially through surveys of healthcare professionals within the community.

Telemedicine adoption is another vital factor. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, particularly for follow-up appointments or discussing screening results, can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms, offering secure video conferencing and remote monitoring capabilities, will receive higher scores. This analysis would assess the types of telemedicine services offered, the ease of use for patients, and the practice's integration of telemedicine into its overall care model.

The emotional and psychological impact of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment is substantial. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of a comprehensive Breast Cancer Score. The analysis will investigate the presence of mental health professionals within the practices themselves or through established referral networks. This includes psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and support groups specializing in cancer care. Practices with strong connections to these resources, offering integrated mental health services or facilitating easy access to them, will be prioritized.

The analysis will also consider the presence of patient navigators. These individuals play a crucial role in guiding patients through the complex healthcare system, coordinating appointments, providing emotional support, and ensuring patients receive the resources they need. Practices employing patient navigators or collaborating with organizations that offer these services will receive higher scores.

The overall Breast Cancer Score will be a composite metric, weighing the factors discussed above. Each factor will be assigned a score based on its importance and the level of service provided. The final score will reflect the overall quality and accessibility of breast cancer care within 35214. The score would be presented in a way that is easily understood by the public, potentially using a star rating system or a simple letter grade.

Furthermore, the analysis would not only provide a score but also identify areas for improvement. This includes highlighting gaps in care, such as a lack of telemedicine options or limited access to mental health resources. This information can be used to advocate for improved healthcare services within the community.

Primary care availability in Birmingham as a whole would also be considered. The broader context of healthcare access in the city impacts the residents of 35214. The analysis would incorporate data on the overall physician-to-patient ratio in Birmingham, the availability of specialists, and the presence of major hospitals and cancer centers. This broader perspective allows for a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape.

The final Breast Cancer Score for 35214, along with the detailed analysis, will be a valuable resource for residents. It will empower them to make informed decisions about their healthcare, to proactively seek preventative care, and to advocate for better services within their community. The analysis will also serve as a benchmark for healthcare providers, encouraging them to improve their services and meet the needs of their patients.

For a comprehensive visual representation of healthcare access in 35214 and throughout Birmingham, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and demographic data, explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive mapping tools that can help you visualize the data discussed in this analysis and gain a deeper understanding of your healthcare options.