35223, Birmingham, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 35223, Birmingham, Alabama is 91 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.78 percent of the residents in 35223 has some form of health insurance. 25.51 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 93.16 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 35223 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,749 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 115 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35223. An estimate of 103 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,701 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 30,024 health care providers accessible to residents in 35223, Birmingham, Alabama.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Birmingham, AL (ZIP Code 35223)

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of breast cancer care within the 35223 ZIP code in Birmingham, Alabama, focusing on primary care physician (PCP) access, physician-to-patient ratios, practice performance, telemedicine integration, and mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" reflecting the overall support system available to individuals navigating breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on strong primary care. In 35223, assessing primary care availability is critical. This involves evaluating the number of PCPs actively practicing within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas easily accessible to residents. Data from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, state medical boards, and local hospital networks should be analyzed to determine the physician-to-patient ratio. A lower ratio, indicating more patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed screenings or referrals. Conversely, a favorable ratio signifies better access to timely and preventative care, which is crucial for early detection of breast cancer.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care practices must be considered. This involves evaluating factors such as patient satisfaction scores (gathered through surveys and online reviews), the adoption of evidence-based screening guidelines (e.g., adherence to mammography recommendations), and the availability of comprehensive health records systems that facilitate seamless information sharing between specialists. Practices actively promoting preventative care, including breast cancer screenings, and providing patient education are essential components of a high-quality score.

Identifying standout practices within the 35223 area requires a deeper dive. This involves researching practices known for their commitment to women's health and breast cancer care. Some practices may have dedicated women's health centers, offering a range of services under one roof, including mammography, biopsies, and consultations with breast cancer specialists. These practices often have established referral networks with oncologists, surgeons, and other specialists, ensuring patients receive coordinated and comprehensive care. Investigating the practice’s involvement in clinical trials and research initiatives also indicates a commitment to advancing breast cancer treatment and improving patient outcomes.

Telemedicine has revolutionized healthcare access, and its adoption is a key factor in the Breast Cancer Score. Practices offering telemedicine consultations for initial screenings, follow-up appointments, and consultations with specialists can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in underserved areas. Evaluating the availability of telemedicine services, the ease of use of the platforms, and the integration of telemedicine into the overall care pathway are crucial. Practices that proactively utilize telemedicine to deliver timely information and support earn higher scores.

The emotional and psychological impact of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment is profound. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of a comprehensive Breast Cancer Score. This includes assessing the availability of on-site or referral-based mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors specializing in oncology. Practices that offer support groups, educational programs, and resources for managing anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges associated with breast cancer treatment and survivorship demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care.

In addition to the resources directly related to breast cancer care, the broader healthcare landscape in Birmingham plays a role. The presence of major hospitals with dedicated cancer centers, the availability of specialized breast cancer surgeons and oncologists, and the proximity of radiation therapy facilities are all important factors. The Breast Cancer Score should reflect the overall strength of the healthcare infrastructure supporting breast cancer patients in the 35223 area.

Furthermore, the accessibility of these resources is paramount. This includes considering factors such as insurance coverage, transportation options, and language accessibility. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans, offer flexible appointment scheduling, and provide translation services demonstrate a commitment to serving a diverse patient population.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is dynamic. It requires ongoing monitoring and evaluation. Regular updates should be made to reflect changes in physician availability, practice performance, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. This continuous assessment ensures that the score remains a relevant and reliable indicator of the quality of breast cancer care in the 35223 area.

In conclusion, the Breast Cancer Score for the 35223 ZIP code in Birmingham, Alabama, is a complex metric that considers various factors. It is a reflection of the healthcare ecosystem's ability to support individuals navigating breast cancer. The quality of primary care, the availability of specialists, the integration of telemedicine, and the presence of mental health resources are all crucial elements. This analysis offers a snapshot of the current landscape, highlighting the need for continuous improvement and patient-centered care.

For a visual representation of healthcare resources in the 35223 area, including the location of primary care practices, hospitals, and specialist offices, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. These maps provide valuable insights into the geographical distribution of healthcare providers and can help you make informed decisions about your breast cancer care.