35654, Russellville, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 35654, Russellville, Alabama is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.86 percent of the residents in 35654 has some form of health insurance. 39.36 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.82 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 35654 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,847 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35654. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,602 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,231 health care providers accessible to residents in 35654, Russellville, Alabama.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Russellville, AL (ZIP Code 35654)

Russellville, Alabama, a community nestled in the heart of Franklin County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access, particularly concerning breast cancer detection and treatment. Analyzing the available resources within the 35654 ZIP code and the broader context of primary care availability in Russellville allows for a nuanced "Breast Cancer Score" assessment. This analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial elements in the patient journey.

The foundation of any robust breast cancer care system lies in accessible primary care. In Russellville, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) directly impacts the early detection of breast cancer. PCPs are often the first point of contact, responsible for routine screenings, patient education, and referrals to specialists. The physician-to-patient ratio within the 35654 ZIP code is a critical metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings like mammograms and clinical breast exams. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and the Alabama Department of Public Health can provide insights into these ratios, allowing for a preliminary score assessment. The score would need to be adjusted based on the number of PCPs accepting new patients and the average appointment wait times.

Standout practices in Russellville can significantly elevate the overall score. These practices are characterized by their commitment to comprehensive breast cancer care, including early detection, diagnostic imaging, and patient support services. This might involve the availability of in-house mammography services, which can streamline the diagnostic process and reduce patient anxiety. Practices with a dedicated breast cancer navigator or nurse can also be considered standout, as they provide invaluable support and guidance to patients throughout their treatment journey. A practice that actively participates in breast cancer research or clinical trials would also merit a higher score. Identifying these standout practices requires a review of local healthcare directories, patient reviews, and potentially interviews with healthcare professionals.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor in the Breast Cancer Score. Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, can be particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas like Russellville. It can provide access to specialists, such as oncologists and surgeons, who may not be readily available locally. Telemedicine can also facilitate follow-up appointments, medication management, and patient education, reducing the burden on patients and improving their overall experience. The score will reflect the percentage of practices offering telemedicine services, the types of services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), and the ease of access for patients.

The integration of mental health resources is a critical but often overlooked aspect of breast cancer care. A breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can be incredibly stressful, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that offer or refer patients to mental health services, such as counseling or support groups, demonstrate a commitment to holistic care. The score will consider the availability of these resources, the accessibility of mental health professionals, and the integration of mental health screenings into routine care. This may include partnerships with local mental health providers or the presence of in-house mental health professionals.

Assessing the overall Breast Cancer Score involves a careful weighting of these factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources are all interconnected and contribute to the overall quality of care. A higher score would indicate a more robust and accessible system, while a lower score would highlight areas for improvement. This score is not a definitive judgment but rather a snapshot of the current state of breast cancer care in Russellville, AL, based on the available data.

For example, if the physician-to-patient ratio is relatively high, the score would be negatively impacted. However, the presence of a standout practice offering in-house mammography and a dedicated breast cancer navigator could partially offset this negative impact. If telemedicine adoption is low, the score would be further reduced, especially considering the potential benefits for patients in a rural area. Conversely, a strong integration of mental health resources would contribute positively to the score.

This Breast Cancer Score analysis is a dynamic process. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, with new technologies, treatments, and resources emerging regularly. Regular updates and reassessments are essential to ensure the score accurately reflects the current state of breast cancer care in Russellville. This analysis is a starting point for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system.

The analysis also highlights the importance of data visualization. Understanding the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, the location of standout practices, and the accessibility of telemedicine services can be greatly enhanced through mapping tools. CartoChrome maps can provide a powerful visual representation of the data, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape. They can help identify areas with limited access to care, pinpoint opportunities for improvement, and facilitate informed decision-making for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers.

To gain a more in-depth understanding of the healthcare landscape in Russellville, and to visualize the data discussed in this analysis, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. Visit their website to learn how their mapping tools can help you visualize and analyze healthcare data, providing a clearer picture of the resources available in your community.