35586, Sulligent, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 35586, Sulligent, Alabama is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.57 percent of the residents in 35586 has some form of health insurance. 46.72 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.91 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 35586 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,045 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35586. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 786 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 251 health care providers accessible to residents in 35586, Sulligent, Alabama.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Sulligent, Alabama (ZIP Code 35586)

Analyzing the landscape of breast cancer care within Sulligent, Alabama (ZIP Code 35586) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will assess the availability and quality of care, focusing on primary care access, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized breast cancer services, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. The ultimate goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem concerning breast cancer detection, treatment, and support.

Sulligent, a rural community, faces inherent challenges in healthcare access. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical starting point. A robust primary care network is essential for early detection through regular screenings and for coordinating care. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio in Sulligent is paramount. A low ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnoses. This is especially concerning in the context of breast cancer, where early detection significantly improves prognosis. Data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and local health departments can provide insights into this critical metric.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care matters. Are PCPs in Sulligent actively promoting breast cancer screenings, such as mammograms? Do they have established referral pathways to specialists? Do they utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient history and ensure continuity of care? These factors contribute to the overall effectiveness of primary care in addressing breast cancer concerns. Furthermore, the presence of nurse practitioners and physician assistants, who can also provide primary care services, should be considered. Their availability can help alleviate the burden on PCPs and improve access to care.

Specialized breast cancer services are crucial for comprehensive care. The presence of a dedicated oncology practice or a cancer center within a reasonable distance is a significant indicator of the community's ability to provide advanced treatment options. This includes access to medical oncologists, surgical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists. The availability of diagnostic imaging services, such as mammography, ultrasound, and MRI, is also vital. Are these services readily accessible, or do patients need to travel long distances for these essential tests? The presence of a multidisciplinary team, where specialists collaborate to develop individualized treatment plans, is a hallmark of high-quality breast cancer care.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for expanding healthcare access, especially in rural areas. Its adoption by healthcare providers in Sulligent can significantly impact breast cancer care. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations with specialists, provide access to educational resources, and offer remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption, including the types of services offered and the technologies used, is crucial. Are local providers utilizing telehealth platforms for follow-up appointments, medication management, or mental health support?

Mental health support is an often-overlooked but critical 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, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is essential. Are there support groups for breast cancer patients in Sulligent? Does the local healthcare system offer access to psychosocial services, such as counseling and support groups? Integrating mental health services into the overall care plan can significantly improve patients' quality of life and their ability to cope with the challenges of their illness.

Identifying standout practices within Sulligent requires a deeper dive into the performance of individual providers and healthcare facilities. This involves examining patient satisfaction surveys, quality metrics, and community reputation. Are there any practices that consistently receive positive feedback from patients? Do any providers have a particular focus on breast cancer care, such as offering specialized services or participating in clinical trials? Identifying these standout practices can help patients make informed decisions about their care and can also serve as a model for other providers in the area.

Assessing the overall breast cancer score for Sulligent involves synthesizing all the above factors. The score would reflect the availability of primary care, the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of specialized services, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The score would also consider the quality of care, as measured by patient satisfaction, outcomes, and adherence to best practices. The score would be a dynamic measure, reflecting the ongoing efforts of the community to improve breast cancer care.

The challenges facing Sulligent, Alabama, in providing comprehensive breast cancer care are considerable. Rural communities often struggle with limited resources, geographic barriers, and workforce shortages. However, there are also opportunities for improvement. Increased investment in primary care, the expansion of telemedicine services, the integration of mental health support, and the promotion of early detection and screening programs can all contribute to better outcomes for breast cancer patients in Sulligent. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and government agencies is essential to address these challenges and improve the overall breast cancer score for the community.

For a visual representation of healthcare accessibility in Sulligent and surrounding areas, including the locations of physicians, hospitals, and support services, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome can provide interactive visualizations of healthcare data, allowing you to explore the landscape of breast cancer care in the area and identify potential gaps in access.