35474, Moundville, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 35474, Moundville, Alabama is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.58 percent of the residents in 35474 has some form of health insurance. 32.77 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.38 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 35474 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,724 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35474. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 907 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 603 health care providers accessible to residents in 35474, Moundville, Alabama.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Moundville, Alabama (ZIP Code 35474)**

Moundville, Alabama, a small town nestled in Tuscaloosa County, presents a unique challenge when evaluating healthcare access, specifically concerning breast cancer care. A comprehensive 'Breast Cancer Score' analysis for the area, considering both the availability of physicians and the broader healthcare ecosystem, reveals a complex picture. This analysis examines the physician landscape, primary care access, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, culminating in a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare environment.

The physician-to-patient ratio in ZIP code 35474 is a critical starting point. Accurate data on this metric can be difficult to obtain with specificity at the ZIP code level, but generally, rural areas like Moundville often face shortages. The limited number of primary care physicians (PCPs) and specialists, including oncologists and surgeons, directly impacts access to timely screenings, diagnoses, and treatment. Patients may face longer wait times for appointments, increased travel distances to access specialized care, and potential delays in treatment initiation. These factors significantly influence the 'Breast Cancer Score'.

Assessing primary care availability is equally important. PCPs are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms or seeking preventative care, including breast cancer screenings. The presence of a robust primary care network, offering convenient appointment scheduling, comprehensive examinations, and patient education, is crucial. In Moundville, the availability of primary care is likely limited, potentially forcing residents to travel to larger towns like Tuscaloosa for routine care. This travel burden can deter individuals from seeking necessary medical attention, particularly those with limited transportation options or financial constraints.

Standout practices, if any, within the area, would play a crucial role in improving the 'Breast Cancer Score'. These practices might excel in patient-centered care, offer extended hours, or have a strong focus on preventative screenings. Identifying these practices and highlighting their contributions could improve access to quality care. These practices may also be able to help residents navigate the healthcare system.

Telemedicine adoption presents both opportunities and challenges in Moundville. Telemedicine, the practice of providing healthcare remotely via technology, can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with specialists without traveling long distances. However, the successful implementation of telemedicine hinges on several factors, including reliable internet access, patient and physician digital literacy, and the availability of appropriate technology. In a rural area like Moundville, limited broadband availability and the digital divide could hinder widespread telemedicine adoption, negatively impacting the 'Breast Cancer Score'.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in breast cancer care, but they are essential. A breast cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, and access to mental health support is crucial for patients' well-being. The availability of counselors, therapists, and support groups in the Moundville area directly affects the 'Breast Cancer Score'. Limited access to mental health services can exacerbate the emotional burden of the disease, potentially impacting treatment adherence and overall quality of life.

The 'Breast Cancer Score' for Moundville, therefore, likely reflects the challenges inherent in rural healthcare. The score is influenced by the physician-to-patient ratio, the accessibility of primary care, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. Each of these factors contributes to the overall healthcare landscape and directly impacts the ability of residents to access timely and comprehensive breast cancer care.

The limitations in physician availability, the potential for travel barriers, and the possible digital divide associated with telemedicine underscore the need for proactive strategies to improve the 'Breast Cancer Score' in Moundville. These strategies could include initiatives to attract and retain healthcare professionals, expand telemedicine infrastructure, and increase access to mental health services. Collaboration between local healthcare providers, community organizations, and government agencies is essential to address these challenges and improve the health outcomes of residents.

Further research is needed to gather specific data on physician numbers, appointment wait times, and telemedicine adoption rates within the ZIP code. This granular data would allow for a more precise assessment of the 'Breast Cancer Score' and inform targeted interventions. Surveys of residents could also provide valuable insights into their experiences with healthcare access and their perceptions of the local healthcare system.

In conclusion, the 'Breast Cancer Score' for Moundville, Alabama, is likely constrained by factors common in rural areas. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach, focusing on improving access to care, supporting healthcare providers, and ensuring the availability of essential resources.