35441, Akron, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 35441, Akron, Alabama is 7 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.80 percent of the residents in 35441 has some form of health insurance. 27.18 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.88 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 35441 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 339 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35441. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 152 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 42 health care providers accessible to residents in 35441, Akron, Alabama.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 35441 & Primary Care Availability in Akron

This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of breast cancer care access and quality within ZIP code 35441, examining physician availability, healthcare infrastructure, and related resources. It also considers the broader context of primary care availability in Akron, Ohio, as this significantly impacts early detection and overall patient outcomes. The goal is to provide a data-driven assessment, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and potential areas for improvement within the healthcare ecosystem.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on accessible and qualified physicians. Analyzing the physician-to-patient ratio in 35441 is crucial. This involves assessing the number of primary care physicians (PCPs), general surgeons, oncologists, and radiologists actively practicing within the specified ZIP code. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to delayed diagnoses, limited access to specialized care, and increased patient wait times. Data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and state medical boards can be used to determine these ratios. The analysis must also consider the demographics of the population within 35441, including age, socioeconomic status, and prevalence of chronic conditions, as these factors influence healthcare needs.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of care is paramount. Identifying standout practices within 35441 requires evaluating their adherence to established breast cancer screening guidelines, treatment protocols, and patient satisfaction metrics. This involves examining factors such as the availability of advanced imaging technologies (mammography, ultrasound, MRI), the presence of multidisciplinary teams (surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, nurses), and the practice's participation in clinical trials. Patient reviews, hospital ratings, and publicly available data on outcomes (e.g., survival rates, recurrence rates) can provide valuable insights into the quality of care provided.

Telemedicine adoption represents a significant factor in improving access to care, especially in rural or underserved areas. The analysis must assess the extent to which physicians in 35441 utilize telemedicine for consultations, follow-up appointments, and patient education. Telemedicine can reduce travel burdens, improve patient convenience, and facilitate timely access to specialists. Examining the availability of telehealth platforms, the types of services offered virtually, and patient satisfaction with telemedicine experiences are all critical components of this evaluation.

The connection between mental health and breast cancer care is undeniable. A breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The analysis needs to evaluate the availability of mental health resources within 35441, including access to psychiatrists, therapists, and support groups. This includes assessing whether primary care practices offer integrated behavioral health services, whether there are dedicated oncology social workers, and whether patients have access to resources for coping with the emotional and psychological aspects of their illness.

Primary care plays a crucial role in early detection and overall health management. The analysis needs to assess the availability of primary care in Akron, Ohio, which serves as a broader context for healthcare access in 35441. This includes evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio for PCPs in Akron, the availability of after-hours care, and the ease with which patients can schedule appointments. A strong primary care infrastructure is essential for promoting preventive screenings, providing timely referrals to specialists, and coordinating care across the healthcare system.

Furthermore, the analysis must consider the insurance landscape in 35441 and Akron. Healthcare access is significantly impacted by insurance coverage, including the types of plans accepted by local physicians and the affordability of healthcare services. This involves assessing the percentage of the population with health insurance, the types of insurance plans available (e.g., Medicare, Medicaid, private insurance), and the potential impact of cost-sharing (e.g., deductibles, co-pays) on patient access to care.

The analysis should also consider the availability of patient navigation services. Navigators assist patients in navigating the complex healthcare system, providing support with scheduling appointments, understanding treatment options, and accessing financial assistance. The presence of patient navigators or dedicated support staff can significantly improve patient outcomes by reducing barriers to care and ensuring that patients receive the resources they need.

The analysis must also incorporate data on social determinants of health (SDOH). SDOH, such as income, education, housing, and access to transportation, significantly impact health outcomes. This involves examining the socioeconomic characteristics of the population in 35441, identifying potential disparities in healthcare access, and assessing the availability of resources to address SDOH-related challenges.

Finally, the analysis must consider the role of community outreach and education. Breast cancer awareness campaigns, educational programs, and screening initiatives can improve early detection rates and promote preventative care. This involves assessing the presence of community health programs, the frequency of breast cancer screenings, and the effectiveness of public health initiatives in 35441 and Akron.

The culmination of this comprehensive analysis will provide a nuanced understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of breast cancer care within ZIP code 35441 and the surrounding Akron area. By examining physician availability, quality of care, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the broader healthcare infrastructure, this analysis will offer valuable insights for healthcare providers, policymakers, and patients alike.

To visualize and interact with this data, and gain a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can transform complex data into interactive visualizations, making it easier to identify patterns, trends, and areas of need. Explore the power of CartoChrome maps to enhance your understanding of healthcare access and quality in 35441 and beyond.