35244, Birmingham, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 35244, Birmingham, Alabama is 91 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.52 percent of the residents in 35244 has some form of health insurance. 20.95 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 85.24 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 35244 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 9,152 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 124 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35244. An estimate of 110 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,283 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 29,344 health care providers accessible to residents in 35244, Birmingham, Alabama.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Birmingham, AL (ZIP Code 35244)**

The health landscape of Birmingham, Alabama, particularly within the 35244 ZIP code, requires careful scrutiny when assessing its readiness to combat breast cancer. This analysis focuses on the availability and quality of primary care physicians, their capacity to facilitate early detection and treatment, and the overall support systems available to patients. This analysis will consider the physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources, all crucial components of a comprehensive breast cancer care framework.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of healthcare access. In the 35244 ZIP code, the density of primary care physicians is a critical factor. A lower ratio, meaning more patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests a more readily accessible healthcare system, allowing for more proactive screening and timely intervention. Data from the American Medical Association (AMA) and the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners, when available, would be essential to accurately assess this ratio within the specified ZIP code. This would involve a detailed analysis of active licensed primary care physicians (family medicine, internal medicine, and general practice) and the estimated population within 35244.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care practices significantly influences breast cancer outcomes. Standout practices are characterized by several factors. These include a commitment to preventative care, the utilization of evidence-based guidelines for screening (mammograms, clinical breast exams), and the ability to efficiently refer patients to specialists when necessary. Practices that embrace technology, such as electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate seamless information sharing, are also highly valued. Furthermore, the presence of certified breast health navigators, who guide patients through the complexities of diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship, is a significant advantage. Identifying these standout practices requires a review of patient reviews, accreditations, and partnerships with local hospitals and cancer centers.

Telemedicine has emerged as a vital tool in modern healthcare, particularly in underserved areas or for patients with mobility issues. Its adoption by primary care physicians in 35244 is a key factor. Telemedicine enables virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and the delivery of educational resources. In the context of breast cancer, telemedicine can facilitate follow-up appointments, discuss test results, and provide emotional support. Practices that have fully integrated telemedicine into their workflow demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and improved access to care. Assessing telemedicine adoption involves examining the availability of virtual appointments, the types of services offered remotely, and the technical infrastructure in place to support these services.

The emotional and psychological toll of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment cannot be overstated. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of a comprehensive care model. Primary care physicians in 35244 should ideally have established referral pathways to mental health professionals, including therapists, counselors, and support groups. The presence of on-site mental health services within primary care practices or partnerships with local mental health providers is highly beneficial. Furthermore, the availability of resources such as support groups, educational materials, and online platforms can significantly improve a patient's overall well-being. Evaluating mental health resource accessibility requires an assessment of referral networks, the availability of mental health services, and the presence of patient support programs.

The overall assessment of breast cancer care in 35244 must consider the interplay of these factors. A high physician-to-patient ratio, coupled with standout practices that embrace technology and offer robust mental health support, would indicate a favorable environment. Conversely, a low ratio, limited telemedicine adoption, and a lack of mental health resources would raise concerns. The specific data points would be crucial for a precise score, but the general principles are clear.

The primary care availability in Birmingham, as a whole, influences the health landscape of 35244. Birmingham's overall healthcare infrastructure, including the presence of major hospitals, cancer centers, and specialized clinics, provides a broader context. The city’s investment in healthcare research, its initiatives to address health disparities, and its commitment to community outreach all play a role. A strong healthcare ecosystem in Birmingham would generally translate to better outcomes for breast cancer patients in 35244. The presence of leading cancer centers, such as the UAB Comprehensive Cancer Center, is a significant advantage. These centers often provide access to cutting-edge treatments, clinical trials, and specialized expertise.

The analysis of breast cancer care in 35244 reveals a complex interplay of factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources all contribute to the overall score. Birmingham's broader healthcare environment also plays a significant role. A comprehensive assessment requires detailed data collection, including information on physician density, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption rates, and mental health resource availability.

To visualize and understand the spatial distribution of these healthcare resources and identify potential gaps in access, consider utilizing the powerful mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome allows you to overlay data on maps, providing a visual representation of physician density, practice locations, and other relevant factors. This can help identify areas of need and inform strategies to improve breast cancer care in the Birmingham area.