35459, Emelle, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 35459, Emelle, Alabama is 2 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 81.76 percent of the residents in 35459 has some form of health insurance. 51.74 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 47.13 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 35459 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 163 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35459. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 313 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 12 health care providers accessible to residents in 35459, Emelle, Alabama.

The analysis of breast cancer care within ZIP Code 35459 and the primary care landscape in Emelle, Alabama, requires a nuanced approach. Focusing solely on a "Breast Cancer Score" for individual doctors, while seemingly straightforward, risks oversimplification. A comprehensive evaluation necessitates considering the interconnectedness of primary care access, specialist availability, and supportive services. This analysis will explore these factors, providing a holistic perspective on the quality of care available to patients in this region.

ZIP Code 35459, encompassing the town of Gordo and surrounding areas, presents unique challenges. The rural nature of the area often translates to lower population density and, consequently, fewer healthcare providers per capita. Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator. A high ratio, indicating fewer doctors for a larger population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Researching the specific physician-to-patient ratio within 35459, compared to state and national averages, is crucial. This data, however, is constantly evolving and requires up-to-date information from reliable sources like the Alabama Department of Public Health or the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services.

Primary care availability in Emelle, a smaller community, is even more critical. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients, providing preventative care, screening for early signs of breast cancer, and referrals to specialists. The presence of a robust primary care network directly impacts the likelihood of early detection and successful treatment. Assessing the number of PCPs in Emelle, their acceptance of new patients, and their ability to provide comprehensive care, including breast cancer screening recommendations, is essential. The lack of readily available primary care can create a significant barrier to accessing timely and appropriate healthcare.

Identifying "standout practices" requires a deeper dive. It involves evaluating practices based on several criteria beyond just the number of physicians. This includes assessing the availability of advanced imaging technology like mammography and breast ultrasound within the practice or nearby facilities. The presence of certified breast health navigators, who guide patients through the complexities of diagnosis and treatment, is another crucial factor. Furthermore, the practice's adherence to national guidelines for breast cancer screening and treatment protocols, as established by organizations like the American Cancer Society or the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, should be considered. Patient satisfaction surveys and online reviews, while not definitive, can offer valuable insights into the patient experience.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care. The availability of telemedicine services for breast cancer consultations, follow-up appointments, and even support groups can significantly impact patient outcomes. Evaluating the extent to which practices in 35459 and those serving Emelle have embraced telemedicine, including the types of services offered and the ease of access for patients, is a key aspect of the analysis.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are integral to comprehensive breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in oncology, can help patients cope with anxiety, depression, and other psychological effects of the disease. Assessing the availability of mental health support within the practices, or through referrals to local resources, is crucial. This includes evaluating the availability of support groups, both in-person and online, which can provide a valuable sense of community and shared experience.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for doctors in this context is not a single, easily quantifiable number. It's a composite assessment reflecting the interplay of all the factors discussed. It is a reflection of the resources available, the accessibility of care, and the quality of the overall patient experience. It is important to remember that the “best” doctor is the one that best suits the patient’s needs, and that the availability of resources is only one factor.

Analyzing the healthcare landscape in 35459 and Emelle requires constant updating. Healthcare availability and access are subject to change. Data on physician availability, practice characteristics, and service offerings should be routinely reviewed and updated.

To visualize the data and create a dynamic map of healthcare resources in 35459 and Emelle, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, specialist availability, and the location of other healthcare services, such as imaging centers and support groups. This can help patients and healthcare providers understand the available resources and identify potential gaps in care.