35953, Ashville, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 35953, Ashville, Alabama is 12 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.01 percent of the residents in 35953 has some form of health insurance. 35.42 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.04 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 35953 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,139 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35953. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,456 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 595 health care providers accessible to residents in 35953, Ashville, Alabama.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Ashville, AL (ZIP Code 35953)

This analysis assesses the landscape of breast cancer care within the Ashville, Alabama, ZIP code 35953, focusing on primary care physician availability, the quality of care offered by local doctors, and access to crucial support services. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the resources available to women in the area, highlighting strengths and identifying areas for improvement.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in early detection and consistent follow-up. This begins with a strong primary care system. In Ashville, assessing primary care availability is critical. This includes evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility to care. Data on the number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the ZIP code, coupled with the local population figures, is essential to calculating this ratio accurately. Further analysis should consider the types of primary care physicians available (e.g., family medicine, internal medicine) and their willingness to accept new patients.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This involves evaluating the practices' commitment to preventative care, specifically breast cancer screenings. Do the primary care physicians regularly recommend mammograms and other relevant tests based on established guidelines? Are they proactive in educating patients about risk factors and promoting self-exams? The existence of electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate tracking patient screenings and follow-up appointments is a positive indicator of quality.

Identifying standout practices within the area is crucial. These practices often demonstrate excellence in several key areas. This includes offering comprehensive breast cancer screenings, providing patient education materials, and maintaining strong referral networks to specialists. They may also participate in community outreach programs to raise awareness about breast cancer and promote early detection. Examining patient reviews and testimonials can offer valuable insights into the patient experience, highlighting practices that prioritize compassionate care and effective communication.

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool in healthcare, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption in Ashville's primary care practices should be assessed. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, allowing patients to connect with their doctors remotely. This is particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and addressing concerns that do not require a physical examination. The availability of telemedicine can improve access to care, especially for patients who face transportation challenges or live in remote locations.

The emotional and psychological impact of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can be significant. Therefore, access to mental health resources is a crucial component of comprehensive care. This includes evaluating the availability of therapists, counselors, and support groups in the Ashville area. Do primary care physicians have established referral pathways to mental health professionals? Are there local support groups specifically for breast cancer patients and survivors? The presence of these resources can help patients cope with the emotional challenges of their diagnosis and treatment, improving their overall well-being.

Furthermore, it is important to consider the availability of specialized breast cancer care within a reasonable distance of Ashville. This includes access to oncologists, surgeons, and radiation therapists. The presence of a local cancer center or a strong referral network to centers in nearby cities is essential. This ensures that patients have access to the advanced treatments and expertise they need.

Assessing the overall breast cancer care landscape in Ashville requires a multi-faceted approach. Data on physician availability, screening practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and access to specialized care must be collected and analyzed. This analysis should be viewed as a dynamic process, with ongoing monitoring and evaluation to ensure that the community's needs are being met.

The availability of primary care physicians, especially those who are proactive in breast cancer screening, is a critical factor. The physician-to-patient ratio, the willingness of doctors to accept new patients, and the quality of care provided by those doctors are essential considerations. The adoption of telemedicine can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients who face geographical or mobility challenges.

Mental health support is a vital component of comprehensive breast cancer care. The availability of therapists, counselors, and support groups can help patients cope with the emotional and psychological challenges of their diagnosis and treatment. Strong referral networks to specialists and access to advanced treatments are also crucial.

This analysis aims to provide a clear picture of the resources available to women in Ashville, Alabama, and to identify areas where improvements can be made. By focusing on these key factors, we can work towards ensuring that all women have access to the best possible breast cancer care.

To visualize the healthcare landscape of Ashville, AL (ZIP Code 35953) and explore the geographical distribution of healthcare providers, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and other relevant data, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of the area's healthcare resources.