35579, Oakman, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 35579, Oakman, Alabama is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.79 percent of the residents in 35579 has some form of health insurance. 46.73 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.36 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 35579 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 781 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35579. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 854 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 49 health care providers accessible to residents in 35579, Oakman, Alabama.

This analysis assesses the landscape of breast cancer care and primary care availability in Oakman, Alabama, specifically focusing on physicians practicing within the 35579 ZIP code. The goal is to provide an informed perspective on the resources available to patients, considering factors beyond simple physician counts. We will explore physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, examine telemedicine adoption, and assess the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components of comprehensive cancer care.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Oakman, 35579, is a critical starting point. Determining this ratio necessitates data from multiple sources. Publicly available data from the US Census Bureau provides population estimates. Simultaneously, a comprehensive search of physician directories, insurance provider networks, and local healthcare systems is required to identify the number of primary care physicians and specialists (oncologists, surgeons, radiologists) actively practicing within the ZIP code. This data, when combined, will paint a picture of the accessibility of care. A low ratio, indicating a high number of patients per physician, may point to potential challenges in timely appointments and personalized care. Conversely, a high ratio suggests a greater potential for patient access.

Beyond simple ratios, the quality and accessibility of primary care are paramount. Primary care physicians often serve as the initial point of contact for patients, providing preventative screenings, early detection of potential issues, and referrals to specialists. Assessing primary care availability involves evaluating the types of services offered (e.g., mammograms, breast exams), appointment scheduling practices, and the acceptance of various insurance plans. Practices that prioritize patient communication, offer extended hours, and have a strong focus on preventative care will likely rank higher in this assessment.

Identifying standout practices requires a multi-faceted approach. This involves gathering information from patient reviews, analyzing the types of services offered, and assessing the practice's integration with the broader healthcare ecosystem. Practices that have earned recognition for patient satisfaction, demonstrate a commitment to early detection and treatment, and actively participate in community outreach programs will be considered as leading examples. Specific practices would need to be identified through comprehensive research, including online searches, consultation with local healthcare providers, and review of publicly available data on quality metrics.

Telemedicine adoption is a significant factor in modern healthcare, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine can improve access to care by reducing travel burdens, offering remote consultations, and facilitating follow-up appointments. Evaluating telemedicine adoption involves determining the availability of virtual appointments, the types of services offered remotely (e.g., consultations, medication management), and the ease of use of the telehealth platform. Practices that have embraced telemedicine and integrated it seamlessly into their care delivery models will be viewed favorably.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being. Access to mental health professionals, support groups, and counseling services is essential. Assessing the availability of these resources involves identifying local mental health providers, support groups, and cancer support organizations. Practices that proactively address the mental health needs of their patients, either through in-house services or referral networks, are considered to provide more comprehensive care.

The analysis also considers the availability of specialized breast cancer care. This includes the presence of oncologists, breast surgeons, and radiologists within the 35579 ZIP code or in nearby areas. Access to these specialists is crucial for timely diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. The analysis will evaluate the proximity of these specialists, their expertise, and their affiliations with local hospitals or cancer centers. Practices that have strong relationships with these specialists and facilitate smooth transitions of care will be viewed positively.

Furthermore, the analysis will factor in the availability of ancillary services, such as physical therapy, nutrition counseling, and genetic counseling. These services can play a vital role in supporting patients throughout their cancer journey. Practices that offer or readily refer patients to these services will be considered as providing a more holistic approach to care.

The overall ranking will be based on a weighted scoring system, with each factor assigned a specific weight based on its importance. The physician-to-patient ratio, primary care availability, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and access to specialized breast cancer care will all be considered. The final score will provide a comprehensive assessment of the breast cancer care landscape in Oakman, 35579.

This detailed analysis aims to provide a clear and concise overview of the breast cancer care landscape in Oakman, Alabama. By evaluating various factors, we can assess the resources available to patients and identify areas for improvement. This information is crucial for patients, healthcare providers, and community stakeholders.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Oakman and the surrounding areas, including the location of physicians, hospitals, and support services, explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive maps that can provide valuable insights into the accessibility of care and the distribution of healthcare resources.