35543, Bear Creek, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 35543, Bear Creek, Alabama is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.15 percent of the residents in 35543 has some form of health insurance. 61.69 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 34.20 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 35543 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 436 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35543. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 211 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 307 health care providers accessible to residents in 35543, Bear Creek, Alabama.

The following analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment for primary care physicians and healthcare resources within ZIP Code 35543, encompassing the Bear Creek, Alabama area. This score considers factors crucial for breast cancer detection, treatment, and overall patient well-being, including physician availability, specialized services, telemedicine integration, and mental health support. The aim is to offer a clear picture of the healthcare landscape, highlighting strengths and areas for potential improvement.

Physician-to-patient ratios form a foundational element of this score. Accurate data on the precise number of primary care physicians practicing within 35543 is crucial. This data is often available through state medical boards, professional organizations, and healthcare directories. A higher physician-to-patient ratio, indicating more doctors per capita, generally translates to easier access to appointments, reduced wait times, and a greater opportunity for preventative care, all critical in early breast cancer detection. This ratio is a key factor in the initial scoring.

The availability of specialized services directly impacts the Breast Cancer Score. While primary care physicians are essential for initial screenings and referrals, access to specialists like oncologists, radiologists, and surgeons is vital for diagnosis and treatment. The proximity of these specialists, or the ease of referral to facilities offering such services, is carefully considered. Does 35543 have a local hospital or clinic with a dedicated oncology department? Are there established referral pathways to larger facilities in nearby cities like Jasper or Birmingham? The presence and accessibility of these specialists significantly influence the score.

Standout practices within the area are also assessed. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to breast cancer screening and early detection receive higher marks. This includes practices that actively promote mammograms, offer patient education about breast health, and utilize advanced imaging technologies. Practices with a history of patient-centered care, positive patient reviews, and a proactive approach to breast cancer prevention are highlighted. This analysis seeks to identify and recognize those practices that are going above and beyond to serve their patients.

Telemedicine adoption plays an increasingly important role in healthcare access. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, potentially reducing the need for travel, especially for those in rural areas. The Breast Cancer Score evaluates the extent to which primary care practices in 35543 have integrated telemedicine into their services. Do they offer virtual consultations for follow-up appointments or for discussing test results? Are they equipped to provide remote monitoring for patients undergoing treatment? The availability and utilization of telemedicine services are considered a positive factor.

Mental health resources are an integral component of the Breast Cancer Score. A breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is crucial for patients' overall well-being. The analysis assesses the availability of these resources within the Bear Creek community and the extent to which primary care practices collaborate with mental health providers. Are there local support groups for breast cancer patients? Do primary care physicians routinely screen for mental health concerns and make appropriate referrals? The presence and accessibility of these resources significantly impact the score.

The analysis examines the availability of preventative care services. This includes the frequency of mammogram screenings, the provision of breast self-examination education, and the promotion of healthy lifestyle choices. Practices that actively encourage preventative measures receive higher marks. The Breast Cancer Score reflects the importance of a proactive approach to breast cancer prevention.

The integration of technology is another key consideration. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to streamline patient care and improve communication receive higher marks. EHRs can facilitate the sharing of medical information between different healthcare providers, improving the coordination of care and reducing the risk of errors. The analysis assesses the extent to which practices in 35543 have adopted and effectively utilize EHRs.

The analysis also considers the demographics of the patient population served by the primary care practices. Are there specific initiatives in place to address the unique needs of underserved populations, such as women of color, who may face disparities in breast cancer care? Practices that demonstrate a commitment to health equity receive higher marks. The Breast Cancer Score reflects the importance of ensuring that all patients have equal access to quality healthcare.

The overall Breast Cancer Score for the primary care landscape in ZIP Code 35543 is a composite measure. It considers all the aforementioned factors, assigning weights to each based on their relative importance. The final score provides a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare resources available in the area, highlighting strengths and areas for improvement. The score is not a definitive judgment, but rather a tool to inform patients and healthcare providers about the quality of care in the region.

The analysis emphasizes the importance of continuous improvement in healthcare. The Breast Cancer Score is not static; it is a dynamic measure that can change over time as healthcare practices evolve and new resources become available. It is hoped that this analysis will serve as a catalyst for positive change, encouraging healthcare providers in Bear Creek to enhance their services and improve the lives of their patients.

This comprehensive assessment, however, is limited by the availability of public data. The accuracy of the score relies on the completeness and reliability of the information gathered from various sources. Further research and data collection could refine the analysis and provide a more detailed picture of the healthcare landscape in Bear Creek.

The Breast Cancer Score is designed to be a valuable tool for patients seeking information about healthcare services in their community. It is also intended to be a resource for healthcare providers, helping them to identify areas where they can improve their services and better serve their patients.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Bear Creek and the surrounding areas, including the locations of primary care practices, specialists, and healthcare resources, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and interactive view of the healthcare ecosystem, allowing you to visualize the data and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.