The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 35228, Birmingham, Alabama is 91 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 85.06 percent of the residents in 35228 has some form of health insurance. 40.76 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 55.79 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 35228 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 2,330 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 115 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35228. An estimate of 103 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,342 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 29,514 health care providers accessible to residents in 35228, Birmingham, Alabama.
Health Scores in 35228, Birmingham, Alabama
Breast Cancer Score | 50 |
---|---|
People Score | 10 |
Provider Score | 91 |
Hospital Score | 30 |
Travel Score | 62 |
35228 | Birmingham | Alabama | |
---|---|---|---|
Providers per 10,000 residents | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Pediatricians per 10,000 residents under 18 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Geriatricians per 10,000 residents over 65 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Birmingham (35228) & Primary Care
This analysis delves into the landscape of breast cancer care within the 35228 ZIP code of Birmingham, Alabama, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, and the integration of modern healthcare practices. The aim is to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and areas ripe for improvement. The analysis will also assess the availability of mental health resources, a critical component of holistic cancer care.
The 35228 ZIP code, encompassing areas like Vestavia Hills and Mountain Brook, is known for its affluent population and access to quality healthcare. However, the presence of wealth does not automatically translate to equitable or easily accessible breast cancer care. A crucial starting point is the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs), the gatekeepers to early detection and preventative care. The "Breast Cancer Score" must consider the density of PCPs per capita. High physician-to-patient ratios can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnostic procedures.
Assessing primary care availability also involves examining the diversity of practices. Are there enough practices accepting new patients? Are there practices that specialize in women's health, offering comprehensive breast cancer screening and follow-up services? The presence of practices that offer same-day appointments or extended hours can significantly improve patient access, especially for those experiencing symptoms or facing urgent concerns. The score will evaluate these factors, giving weight to practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care and accessibility.
Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. The "Breast Cancer Score" will evaluate the extent to which practices adhere to established breast cancer screening guidelines, such as those recommended by the American Cancer Society or the National Comprehensive Cancer Network. This includes the frequency of mammograms, the use of advanced imaging techniques like 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), and the availability of genetic counseling and testing for individuals with a family history of breast cancer. Practices that proactively engage in patient education and risk assessment will receive higher scores.
The analysis must also consider the presence of standout practices within the 35228 area. These practices may excel in specific areas, such as providing personalized care plans, offering comprehensive support services, or employing innovative technologies. Identifying and highlighting these exemplary practices can serve as a benchmark for others and help patients make informed choices. The "Breast Cancer Score" will recognize practices that demonstrate a commitment to excellence in breast cancer care.
Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool for expanding access to healthcare, particularly in areas where geographical barriers or transportation limitations exist. The "Breast Cancer Score" will evaluate the adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in the 35228 ZIP code. This includes the availability of virtual consultations for routine check-ups, follow-up appointments, and the delivery of test results. Practices that embrace telemedicine can improve patient convenience and reduce the burden of travel, particularly for those undergoing treatment or managing chronic conditions.
Mental health is an often-overlooked but critical component of breast cancer care. The diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer can be emotionally and psychologically challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. The "Breast Cancer Score" will assess the availability of mental health resources within the primary care network and the broader community. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in cancer-related issues. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care plans will receive higher scores.
The analysis will also consider the availability of specialists within the Birmingham area. While primary care physicians are the first point of contact, access to oncologists, surgeons, and other specialists is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment. The "Breast Cancer Score" will evaluate the proximity of these specialists to the 35228 ZIP code and the ease with which patients can access their services. This includes assessing wait times for appointments and the availability of specialized breast cancer centers.
The "Breast Cancer Score" will synthesize these factors to provide a holistic assessment of breast cancer care within the 35228 ZIP code. The score will be based on a weighted system, with each factor contributing to the overall rating. The weighting will reflect the relative importance of each factor in determining the quality and accessibility of care. The final score will provide a valuable tool for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers, highlighting areas of strength and areas that require improvement.
Finally, the analysis will consider the impact of socioeconomic factors on breast cancer care. The 35228 ZIP code is known for its affluence, but disparities in access to care may still exist. The "Breast Cancer Score" will assess the availability of financial assistance programs, insurance coverage options, and other resources that can help patients overcome financial barriers to care. This will ensure that the score reflects the equity of access to breast cancer care within the community.
This comprehensive analysis provides a framework for understanding the current state of breast cancer care in the 35228 ZIP code. By assessing physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and adherence to screening guidelines, the "Breast Cancer Score" aims to empower patients and guide healthcare providers toward improved outcomes.
Are you looking for a visual representation of this data, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to services? Explore the power of location intelligence with CartoChrome maps. Gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in your community.
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