35618, Courtland, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 35618, Courtland, Alabama is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.36 percent of the residents in 35618 has some form of health insurance. 43.58 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.52 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 35618 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 471 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35618. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 479 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,481 health care providers accessible to residents in 35618, Courtland, Alabama.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Courtland, Alabama (ZIP Code 35618)

This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of breast cancer care resources and primary care availability within Courtland, Alabama (ZIP code 35618), focusing on physician accessibility, quality of care, and support services. The goal is to establish a "Breast Cancer Score" based on various factors, offering insights for residents seeking information and guidance regarding their health.

Courtland, a rural community in Lawrence County, presents unique challenges and opportunities concerning healthcare access. The analysis will consider the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs), specialists, and supporting resources, assessing their impact on breast cancer care.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Accessibility:**

Understanding the physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. In rural areas, this ratio often presents a significant hurdle. To assess this in 35618, data from sources like the US Census Bureau and the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners will be cross-referenced to determine the number of PCPs and specialists (specifically, oncologists, radiologists, and surgeons) serving the area. This data will then be compared to the population of Courtland to calculate a ratio. A lower ratio (more patients per physician) would negatively impact the Breast Cancer Score, indicating potential delays in appointments and care.

The geographic distribution of physicians is another critical factor. Even with an adequate physician-to-patient ratio, if providers are concentrated in a single location, accessibility is compromised for residents living further away. This analysis will consider the physical distance to the nearest medical facilities, factoring in transportation options (availability of public transport, reliance on personal vehicles) and travel times. The Breast Cancer Score will be adjusted based on the ease of access to these essential services.

**Standout Practices and Quality of Care:**

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating the quality of care provided. This assessment will include examining factors like accreditation status (e.g., by the American College of Surgeons for surgical facilities), the use of evidence-based practices, and patient satisfaction scores. Data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and patient review platforms (e.g., Healthgrades, Vitals) will be analyzed to gain insights into the performance of local practices.

The presence of comprehensive breast cancer programs, including screening mammography, diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, radiation therapy, and medical oncology, is a key indicator of quality. The availability of these services within a reasonable distance will significantly influence the Breast Cancer Score. Practices that offer multidisciplinary care, bringing together various specialists to develop individualized treatment plans, will receive higher scores.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Impact:**

Telemedicine has the potential to bridge the gap in healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by local practices will be assessed, focusing on its use for consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring. The Breast Cancer Score will be positively impacted by practices that offer telemedicine options, as this increases accessibility and convenience for patients.

The types of telemedicine services offered will also be considered. For example, practices that provide virtual consultations with oncologists or radiologists will be viewed more favorably than those that offer only basic telehealth services. The availability of remote monitoring tools, such as wearable devices that track vital signs and symptoms, will further enhance the score.

**Mental Health Resources and Support:**

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on mental health. The availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of comprehensive care. This analysis will evaluate the availability of mental health professionals (therapists, counselors, psychiatrists) in the Courtland area, specifically those specializing in oncology-related issues.

The presence of support groups, both in-person and virtual, will also be assessed. Support groups provide a valuable platform for patients to connect with others facing similar challenges, sharing experiences and providing emotional support. The Breast Cancer Score will be positively impacted by practices that offer or facilitate access to these essential mental health resources.

**Specific Considerations for Courtland:**

Given the rural nature of Courtland, the analysis will pay particular attention to the challenges faced by residents. This includes the potential for limited transportation options, the need for longer travel times to access specialized care, and the importance of community-based resources.

The analysis will consider the availability of patient navigators, who can help patients navigate the complex healthcare system, coordinate appointments, and access financial assistance. The presence of patient navigators will positively impact the Breast Cancer Score.

**Breast Cancer Score Components:**

The Breast Cancer Score will be a composite score based on the following weighted components:

* **Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Accessibility (30%):** Reflecting the availability and geographic distribution of PCPs and specialists.
* **Quality of Care (30%):** Based on accreditation, evidence-based practices, patient satisfaction, and the availability of comprehensive services.
* **Telemedicine Adoption (15%):** Assessing the use of telemedicine for various services.
* **Mental Health Resources (15%):** Evaluating the availability of mental health professionals and support groups.
* **Community Resources and Patient Navigation (10%):** Assessing the availability of patient navigators, transportation assistance, and financial aid programs.

**Conclusion:**

This analysis provides a framework for understanding the landscape of breast cancer care in Courtland, Alabama. The Breast Cancer Score will serve as a valuable tool for residents seeking information about healthcare options, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system. By considering these factors, residents can make informed decisions about their care.

**Take Action:**

Want to visualize the healthcare landscape in Courtland and surrounding areas? Explore the power of spatial data and gain deeper insights into physician locations, facility accessibility, and community resources using CartoChrome maps. See the data, understand the impact.