35824, Huntsville, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 35824, Huntsville, Alabama is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.72 percent of the residents in 35824 has some form of health insurance. 20.76 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 88.04 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 35824 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,476 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35824. An estimate of 6 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,031 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 9,725 health care providers accessible to residents in 35824, Huntsville, Alabama.

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment are complex, and access to quality care is paramount. This analysis delves into the landscape of breast cancer support in ZIP Code 35824, focusing on physician availability, the broader primary care environment in Huntsville, and the integration of modern healthcare solutions. We will assess the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem to provide a comprehensive overview.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of accessibility. In ZIP Code 35824, the availability of oncologists, surgeons specializing in breast health, and radiologists with expertise in mammography and related imaging is crucial. A high ratio of patients per specialist can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and increased stress for patients. Conversely, a favorable ratio suggests a more readily accessible network of care. This analysis will attempt to ascertain these ratios within the specified geographic area.

Beyond specialist availability, the overall primary care environment in Huntsville significantly impacts breast cancer outcomes. Primary care physicians (PCPs) often serve as the first point of contact for patients, providing preventative screenings, early detection, and referrals to specialists. A robust primary care system, characterized by a sufficient number of PCPs and readily available appointments, is essential for timely diagnosis and treatment. The geographic distribution of primary care practices within Huntsville, and their capacity to serve the population, will be assessed.

Standout practices within ZIP Code 35824 and the broader Huntsville area deserve recognition. These practices often demonstrate excellence in patient care, innovative treatment approaches, and a commitment to community outreach. Factors such as accreditation by reputable organizations (e.g., the American College of Surgeons), participation in clinical trials, and patient satisfaction scores are key indicators of quality. Identifying and highlighting these exemplary practices can empower patients to make informed decisions about their care.

The adoption of telemedicine has revolutionized healthcare delivery, particularly in areas with limited access to specialists. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and facilitating timely access to care. In the context of breast cancer, telemedicine can be used for follow-up appointments, consultations with specialists, and access to support groups. The extent of telemedicine adoption among healthcare providers in ZIP Code 35824 and Huntsville will be evaluated, including the types of services offered and the technologies employed.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked, yet critical, component of breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Access to mental health professionals, support groups, and other resources is essential for patients to cope with the emotional and psychological burdens of the disease. This analysis will examine the availability of mental health services specifically tailored to breast cancer patients in the area.

The integration of these factors – physician-to-patient ratios, primary care accessibility, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources – paints a holistic picture of the breast cancer care landscape in ZIP Code 35824 and Huntsville. The analysis will consider the potential impact of these factors on patient outcomes, including early detection rates, treatment success, and overall quality of life.

Specific data points will be sought from publicly available sources, including the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the National Cancer Institute (NCI), and state and local health departments. Patient reviews and testimonials, where available and ethically sourced, will be considered to provide a more nuanced understanding of the patient experience. The analysis will attempt to identify the specific oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and primary care physicians practicing within the specified geographic area. The number of patients served by each physician or practice will be estimated, based on available data, to calculate physician-to-patient ratios.

The analysis will also evaluate the availability of breast cancer screening services, such as mammography, within ZIP Code 35824. The number and location of screening facilities, as well as the types of screening technologies available (e.g., 3D mammography), will be assessed. The analysis will also consider the availability of financial assistance programs for breast cancer screening and treatment, as cost can be a significant barrier to care for some patients.

The assessment of telemedicine adoption will focus on the specific telemedicine platforms and technologies used by healthcare providers in the area. The types of services offered via telemedicine, such as virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and patient education, will be evaluated. The analysis will also consider the availability of telehealth resources for patients who may not have access to reliable internet or technology.

The evaluation of mental health resources will include an assessment of the availability of mental health professionals specializing in oncology, support groups for breast cancer patients, and other resources such as mindfulness programs and stress management workshops. The analysis will also consider the integration of mental health services into the overall breast cancer care pathway.

The analysis will strive to provide a clear and concise overview of the breast cancer care landscape in ZIP Code 35824 and Huntsville. The goal is to empower patients with the information they need to make informed decisions about their care. The analysis will also identify areas where improvements can be made to enhance access to quality breast cancer care in the community.

This comprehensive assessment will offer insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system, providing valuable information for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers. The findings will be presented in a clear and accessible format, highlighting key areas for improvement and opportunities for collaboration.

To further explore the geographic distribution of healthcare resources and identify potential gaps in care, we encourage you to use CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive mapping tools that allow you to visualize healthcare data and gain a deeper understanding of the local healthcare landscape.