35545, Belk, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 35545, Belk, Alabama is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.91 percent of the residents in 35545 has some form of health insurance. 65.45 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 40.61 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 35545 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 39 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35545. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 54 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 140 health care providers accessible to residents in 35545, Belk, Alabama.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 35545 and Primary Care Availability in Belk

This analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of breast cancer care accessibility and quality within ZIP code 35545 (Belk, Alabama) and the surrounding area, focusing on primary care physician availability, specialist access, and supportive resources. The goal is to evaluate the landscape of care, identifying strengths and weaknesses, and ultimately, providing valuable insights for residents seeking optimal breast cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in robust primary care. In Belk, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical factor. A low PCP-to-patient ratio can lead to delayed diagnoses, less frequent screenings, and a diminished ability to manage overall health, which is crucial for breast cancer patients. Determining the precise PCP-to-patient ratio requires gathering data on the number of practicing PCPs within a defined radius of Belk and comparing it to the population size. Publicly available data from sources like the US Census Bureau and the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners will be essential to this calculation. A healthy ratio generally indicates better access to preventative care and timely referrals.

Beyond raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs within the area is important. Are the physicians clustered in one specific location, or are they spread throughout the community, making access easier for all residents? Analyzing the geographic distribution will reveal potential disparities in access based on location. Furthermore, the acceptance of new patients by existing practices must be evaluated. Practices that are perpetually full or have long wait times may hinder access to timely care, particularly for those with symptoms or concerns.

Specialist access is another critical component of the 'Breast Cancer Score'. This includes oncologists, radiologists, surgeons, and other specialists who are directly involved in breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. The proximity of these specialists to Belk is paramount. Travel distance and the availability of transportation options for patients, especially those who may be undergoing chemotherapy or radiation, are essential factors. Examining the number of specialists practicing within a reasonable driving distance, the types of services offered, and the availability of appointments will significantly impact the overall score.

Standout practices within and near ZIP code 35545 warrant specific recognition. These practices will be identified based on their commitment to comprehensive breast cancer care. This includes factors like the availability of advanced imaging technologies (e.g., 3D mammography), a multidisciplinary approach involving surgeons, oncologists, and support staff, and participation in clinical trials. Practices that actively promote breast cancer awareness, offer patient education programs, and demonstrate a strong patient-centered approach should be highlighted. Identifying these 'best-practice' examples can guide residents toward high-quality care.

Telemedicine adoption presents a significant opportunity to improve access to care, especially in rural areas like Belk. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations with specialists, provide access to educational resources, and enable remote monitoring of patients. The availability of telemedicine services offered by local practices or larger healthcare systems will be assessed. This includes evaluating the types of services offered via telemedicine, the ease of use of the technology, and the cost and insurance coverage for these services. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are likely to score higher on this analysis.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but crucial aspect of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being. The availability of mental health professionals, support groups, and counseling services within the community is essential. This includes assessing the number of therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists specializing in oncology-related mental health, the availability of support groups for breast cancer patients and survivors, and the ease of access to these resources. Practices that integrate mental health support into their care plans will receive a higher score.

The 'Breast Cancer Score' will also consider the availability of resources for financial assistance. Breast cancer treatment can be expensive, and many patients face financial challenges. The presence of organizations that offer financial aid, such as grants, co-pay assistance, or transportation support, is a significant factor in the overall score. This will involve identifying local and national organizations that provide financial assistance to breast cancer patients and assessing the eligibility requirements and application processes.

The analysis will also include an assessment of the local hospital's commitment to breast cancer care. This includes factors like the accreditation status of the hospital's breast center, the availability of specialized equipment and services, and the hospital's overall patient satisfaction scores. Hospitals that have a dedicated breast cancer center with a multidisciplinary team, offer comprehensive services, and demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care will receive a higher score.

Finally, the analysis will consider the availability of community resources. This includes the presence of local chapters of national breast cancer organizations, such as the American Cancer Society or Susan G. Komen, which offer support, education, and advocacy services. The availability of these resources can provide valuable support for patients and their families.

This comprehensive 'Breast Cancer Score' analysis aims to provide a clear picture of the quality and accessibility of breast cancer care in and around ZIP code 35545. The ultimate goal is to empower residents with the information they need to make informed decisions about their healthcare and to advocate for improvements in the local healthcare landscape.

For a visual representation of the data and a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, we encourage you to explore the power of mapping.

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