35475, Northport, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 35475, Northport, Alabama is 95 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.32 percent of the residents in 35475 has some form of health insurance. 24.92 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 85.31 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 35475 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,220 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35475. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,901 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 634 health care providers accessible to residents in 35475, Northport, Alabama.

The following analysis assesses breast cancer care within ZIP code 35475 (Northport, Alabama) and examines primary care availability, aiming to provide a comprehensive overview for patients and healthcare stakeholders. This evaluation considers factors crucial to breast cancer outcomes, including access to primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health support.

Northport, Alabama, while a relatively small community, faces the same healthcare challenges as many areas, particularly regarding specialized care like oncology. The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on robust primary care. Early detection and referral are critical. This analysis considers the accessibility and quality of primary care within the Northport area as a vital component of the overall breast cancer care landscape.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator of healthcare access. A higher ratio, indicating more patients per physician, can potentially lead to longer wait times for appointments and reduced time spent with each patient. Data on physician distribution within ZIP code 35475 and surrounding areas is essential. Analyzing the number of primary care physicians, oncologists, radiologists, and surgeons specializing in breast cancer relative to the population provides a crucial benchmark. Publicly available data from sources like the US Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) and state medical boards can be used to determine these ratios. The analysis will highlight any disparities and suggest areas for improvement.

Identifying standout practices is critical. These are healthcare providers that demonstrate excellence in breast cancer care, potentially through advanced treatment options, patient-centered care models, or exceptional outcomes. This assessment will look for practices offering comprehensive services, including screening mammography, diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, radiation therapy, and medical oncology. The analysis will consider factors such as accreditation by recognized organizations like the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer (CoC) or the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC). Patient reviews and testimonials, while subjective, can offer valuable insights into patient experiences and satisfaction.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, especially in rural or underserved areas. Telemedicine can improve access to care by reducing travel burdens and offering remote consultations. This analysis will evaluate the extent to which primary care physicians and specialists in the Northport area utilize telemedicine for breast cancer-related services. This includes virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and access to educational resources. The availability of telemedicine can significantly impact patient convenience and potentially improve early detection and follow-up care.

Mental health resources are a crucial, often overlooked, aspect of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being. This analysis will examine the availability of mental health services within the Northport area, including access to therapists, counselors, support groups, and psychiatric care. The integration of mental health services into the breast cancer care pathway is a key indicator of a patient-centered approach. Practices that offer or refer patients to mental health professionals demonstrate a commitment to holistic care.

The availability of primary care in Northport directly impacts the early detection and management of breast cancer. Regular screenings and prompt referrals from primary care physicians are crucial for improving outcomes. This analysis will assess the density of primary care practices within the area, their acceptance of new patients, and their ability to provide timely appointments. The presence of community health centers and other safety-net providers will also be considered, as they often play a vital role in serving vulnerable populations.

The success of breast cancer treatment relies heavily on the coordination of care among various specialists. This analysis will assess the level of collaboration among primary care physicians, radiologists, surgeons, oncologists, and other healthcare providers in the Northport area. This includes the use of electronic health records (EHRs) to facilitate information sharing, participation in multidisciplinary tumor boards, and the implementation of standardized treatment protocols. Effective communication and collaboration are essential for ensuring that patients receive the best possible care.

The analysis will also consider the availability of patient navigation services. Patient navigators help guide patients through the complex healthcare system, providing support and assistance with appointments, insurance, and other practical needs. The presence of patient navigators can significantly improve the patient experience and reduce the burden of navigating the healthcare system.

Furthermore, the study will examine the availability of support services, such as genetic counseling, survivorship programs, and rehabilitation services. Genetic counseling can help identify individuals at high risk for breast cancer, while survivorship programs provide support and resources for long-term health and well-being. Rehabilitation services, such as physical therapy and occupational therapy, can help patients recover from the physical effects of treatment.

The analysis will also consider the demographic makeup of the Northport area, including factors such as race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status. These factors can influence access to care and health outcomes. The analysis will identify any disparities in care and suggest strategies for addressing them.

Finally, the analysis will synthesize all of the data to create a comprehensive breast cancer care score for the Northport area. This score will reflect the overall quality and accessibility of breast cancer care, providing a valuable tool for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers. The score will consider the physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the strength of primary care.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in Northport and gain deeper insights into physician locations, practice characteristics, and other relevant data points, we encourage you to explore our interactive maps. CartoChrome maps offer a dynamic platform for visualizing healthcare data, enabling you to make informed decisions about your healthcare choices. Visit CartoChrome to see the area’s healthcare infrastructure in a new light.