35645, Killen, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 35645, Killen, Alabama is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.34 percent of the residents in 35645 has some form of health insurance. 31.17 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.71 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 35645 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,085 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35645. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,320 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,014 health care providers accessible to residents in 35645, Killen, Alabama.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 35645 & Primary Care Availability in Killen

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of breast cancer-related care within ZIP code 35645, focusing specifically on primary care physicians in Killen, Alabama. We aim to provide a comprehensive ‘Breast Cancer Score’ assessment, considering factors crucial for timely diagnosis, treatment, and overall patient well-being. This includes physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all critical elements in a patient's journey.

The foundation of any strong breast cancer care network lies in robust primary care. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact, playing a vital role in preventative screenings, early detection, and referrals to specialists. In Killen, assessing primary care availability involves examining the number of practicing PCPs relative to the population. A low physician-to-patient ratio can indicate potential access challenges, leading to delayed appointments and potentially impacting the timeliness of care. This analysis will consider the population of Killen and the number of actively practicing PCPs within the area, factoring in their acceptance of new patients and their ability to provide comprehensive primary care services.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This involves evaluating the practices' adherence to national guidelines for breast cancer screening, including mammograms and clinical breast exams. Are PCPs proactively discussing risk factors with their patients? Are they providing education on self-breast exams? Do they have established referral pathways to qualified radiologists and oncologists? These aspects are crucial in determining a practice's contribution to early detection and patient empowerment. We will investigate the practices' adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) and their ability to seamlessly share patient information, improving coordination of care.

Furthermore, the ‘Breast Cancer Score’ will assess the presence of standout practices within ZIP code 35645. This involves identifying practices that demonstrate excellence in breast cancer-related care. This could include practices that consistently achieve high rates of screening, provide comprehensive patient education, or have specialized programs for high-risk individuals. We will look for practices that actively participate in community outreach programs, raising awareness about breast cancer and promoting early detection. The presence of such standout practices can significantly enhance the overall quality of care available in the area.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption within the primary care practices in Killen and the broader 35645 ZIP code will be evaluated. Telemedicine can improve access to care by allowing patients to consult with their physicians remotely, reducing travel time and facilitating follow-up appointments. We will assess the availability of telehealth services for breast cancer-related consultations, including discussing screening results, providing education, and offering support to patients undergoing treatment. The ease of access to these services is a significant factor in the ‘Breast Cancer Score.’

The emotional toll of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment is substantial. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of the ‘Breast Cancer Score.’ This involves evaluating the presence of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, within the primary care practices or in the surrounding community. Do these practices offer on-site counseling services, or do they have established referral pathways to mental health providers? Are support groups available for patients and their families? The ability to access mental health support is crucial for managing the psychological impact of breast cancer and improving overall patient well-being.

The analysis will also consider the proximity of specialized breast cancer care facilities, such as breast imaging centers, surgical oncologists, and radiation oncologists, to the Killen area and within ZIP code 35645. The ease of access to these specialists is a key factor in determining the timeliness and effectiveness of treatment. We will assess the travel time and distance to these facilities, as well as the availability of transportation options for patients. The presence of a comprehensive network of specialists is essential for providing high-quality breast cancer care.

The ‘Breast Cancer Score’ will be a composite measure, reflecting the various factors discussed above. It will be a nuanced assessment, recognizing that healthcare quality is multifaceted. The score will not only consider the availability of resources but also the quality of care provided, the adoption of technology, and the support systems available to patients. This holistic approach aims to provide a comprehensive picture of the breast cancer care landscape within ZIP code 35645 and specifically in Killen.

In conclusion, this ‘Breast Cancer Score’ analysis will provide valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in ZIP code 35645, with a focus on Killen. The assessment will highlight areas where improvements are needed, such as increasing the number of PCPs, enhancing telemedicine adoption, and expanding access to mental health resources. The goal is to empower patients with information and to promote the development of a robust and patient-centered breast cancer care network.

For a visual representation of the data and a deeper dive into the geographic distribution of healthcare resources within ZIP code 35645, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their platform allows you to visualize physician locations, specialist availability, and other relevant data points, providing a powerful tool for understanding the healthcare landscape and making informed decisions.