35594, Winfield, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 35594, Winfield, Alabama is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.91 percent of the residents in 35594 has some form of health insurance. 48.57 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.99 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 35594 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,687 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35594. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,489 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 452 health care providers accessible to residents in 35594, Winfield, Alabama.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Winfield, Alabama (ZIP Code 35594)

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of breast cancer care within Winfield, Alabama (ZIP Code 35594), focusing on primary care physicians and their ability to facilitate timely detection and treatment. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, considering factors like physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the presence of mental health resources. This analysis aims to inform residents and healthcare providers alike, highlighting areas of strength and opportunities for improvement.

Winfield, a relatively small community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. The limited population density often translates to fewer healthcare providers, potentially impacting access to care, particularly for specialized services like breast cancer screening and treatment. Assessing the local landscape requires a nuanced approach, considering the resources available within the immediate area and the potential for patients to seek care in neighboring communities.

One of the most critical factors in assessing breast cancer care is the physician-to-patient ratio. This metric indicates the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs), who often serve as the first point of contact for patients and play a vital role in preventative care, including breast cancer screening. A low physician-to-patient ratio, meaning a higher number of patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying the detection of breast cancer. Researching the specific physician-to-patient ratio within Winfield requires accessing data from sources like the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services or local healthcare networks. This data will help determine if the current physician base is adequate to meet the community's needs.

Beyond the raw numbers, the characteristics of local primary care practices are crucial. Are practices accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate working individuals? Are they equipped with the latest technology, such as digital mammography machines, or do they refer patients to other facilities for these services? The availability of on-site mammography significantly streamlines the screening process, reducing the time and effort required for patients. Practices that actively participate in breast cancer screening programs and adhere to established guidelines, such as those from the American Cancer Society, are likely to offer a higher quality of care.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor in assessing breast cancer care. Telemedicine, the use of technology to provide healthcare remotely, can be particularly beneficial in rural areas like Winfield. It allows patients to consult with specialists, receive counseling, and even participate in support groups without traveling long distances. The availability of telemedicine consultations for breast cancer-related concerns, such as discussing screening results or receiving post-treatment follow-up care, can significantly improve patient access and convenience. Investigating which local practices offer telemedicine services and the types of services available is essential.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, within the community or through referral networks is vital. Primary care practices that integrate mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health providers demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. Assessing the presence of mental health support services and the integration of these services within primary care practices is an important part of this analysis.

Identifying standout practices within Winfield requires examining their specific offerings and performance. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to preventative care, offer convenient appointment scheduling, and actively participate in breast cancer screening programs are likely to be considered high-performing. Gathering patient reviews and feedback can also provide valuable insights into the patient experience, including the quality of communication, the responsiveness of staff, and the overall level of care provided. This information can help identify practices that are excelling in breast cancer care.

The availability of primary care in Winfield is directly related to the potential for early detection of breast cancer. A strong primary care network, characterized by accessible physicians, comprehensive services, and a commitment to preventative care, is essential for ensuring that women in the community have the best possible chance of surviving and thriving after a breast cancer diagnosis. The analysis should include an assessment of the availability of specialists, such as oncologists and surgeons, in the surrounding areas, as patients may need to travel for specialized treatment.

A comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" for Winfield should consider all of these factors, providing a holistic assessment of the community's capacity to provide quality breast cancer care. This score could be a numerical rating, a color-coded system, or a combination of both, allowing residents to quickly understand the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system. The score should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape, such as the addition of new providers, the adoption of new technologies, or changes in healthcare policies.

The analysis should also consider the potential for collaboration between healthcare providers. Encouraging communication and coordination between primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare professionals can improve patient outcomes. This could involve the use of electronic health records, shared care plans, and regular meetings to discuss patient cases. Collaboration can also extend to community organizations, such as support groups and cancer awareness programs, which can play a valuable role in educating the public and providing support to patients and their families.

In conclusion, assessing the breast cancer care landscape in Winfield requires a multi-faceted approach, considering the availability of primary care physicians, the characteristics of local practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the potential for collaboration between healthcare providers. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the current state of breast cancer care in Winfield, highlighting areas of strength and opportunities for improvement.

For a visual representation of this data, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to resources, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that can visualize healthcare data, allowing you to explore the local healthcare landscape in detail.