35963, Dawson, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 35963, Dawson, Alabama is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.50 percent of the residents in 35963 has some form of health insurance. 36.85 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.19 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 35963 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 210 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35963. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 174 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,510 health care providers accessible to residents in 35963, Dawson, Alabama.

This analysis provides a preliminary assessment of breast cancer care accessibility and related resources for residents of ZIP Code 35963, focusing on primary care availability in the Dawson area of Alabama. It aims to offer insights into the local healthcare landscape, acknowledging the complexities of accurately quantifying something as multifaceted as healthcare quality. This evaluation is not a definitive ranking but rather an exploration of key factors influencing breast cancer care.

The first critical element is the physician-to-patient ratio within the designated area. A higher ratio of primary care physicians (PCPs) per capita generally indicates better access to preventative care, including breast cancer screenings and referrals. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) can offer estimates, but the specific ratio within ZIP Code 35963 and Dawson requires detailed investigation. Factors to consider are the total population, the number of practicing PCPs (including internal medicine, family medicine, and general practitioners), and the geographical distribution of these physicians. Rural areas often face shortages, potentially impacting timely diagnoses and treatment.

Standout practices are those demonstrating excellence in various aspects of patient care. These could include practices with a strong focus on preventative screenings, early detection programs, and patient education initiatives. Identifying these practices requires examining their patient demographics, screening rates, and referral pathways. Local hospitals and community health centers often play a crucial role, offering comprehensive services and potentially collaborating with specialists for optimal patient outcomes. Furthermore, practices that actively participate in clinical trials or research related to breast cancer treatment and prevention should be highlighted.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly significant, especially in rural communities. Telemedicine offers the potential to bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to access specialist consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational resources remotely. Assessing the telemedicine capabilities of practices in the area requires evaluating their technology infrastructure, the types of services offered virtually, and the availability of remote patient monitoring tools. Successful telemedicine integration can improve access to care and reduce the burden on patients, particularly those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges.

Mental health resources are an essential component of comprehensive breast cancer care. The diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer can be emotionally challenging, and access to mental health support is critical for patients' well-being. Evaluating the availability of mental health services in the Dawson area involves assessing the presence of therapists, counselors, and support groups. It is also crucial to determine whether practices offer integrated mental health services or have referral pathways to mental health professionals. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health providers can ensure patients receive holistic care, addressing both their physical and emotional needs.

Primary care availability in Dawson is a key determinant of breast cancer care accessibility. The geographical distribution of PCPs, the availability of same-day appointments, and the acceptance of various insurance plans all influence a patient’s ability to receive timely care. Assessing the number of PCPs in Dawson requires identifying their locations, hours of operation, and patient capacity. Furthermore, understanding the insurance plans accepted by these practices is essential, as insurance coverage significantly impacts access to care.

The presence of local hospitals and specialized cancer centers is another vital consideration. Hospitals offering comprehensive cancer care, including diagnostic imaging, surgical services, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, are crucial for patients’ treatment journeys. Assessing the capabilities of nearby hospitals involves examining their accreditations, the range of services offered, and the availability of specialized staff, such as oncologists, surgeons, and nurses. Access to these specialized services can significantly impact patient outcomes.

Patient education and support programs are also vital. Practices that offer educational materials, support groups, and patient navigators can empower patients to make informed decisions about their care. Assessing the availability of these resources involves evaluating the practices' educational materials, the frequency of support group meetings, and the presence of patient navigators who can guide patients through the complexities of the healthcare system. Patient empowerment can improve adherence to treatment plans and enhance overall patient satisfaction.

The availability of transportation services is another crucial factor, especially in rural areas. Patients may face challenges accessing healthcare facilities due to limited transportation options. Assessing the availability of transportation services involves identifying local transportation providers, such as public transportation, ride-sharing services, and volunteer driver programs. Addressing transportation barriers can improve access to care and ensure patients can attend appointments and receive necessary treatments.

The use of electronic health records (EHRs) can improve care coordination and communication between providers. Practices that utilize EHRs can share patient information more efficiently, reducing the risk of errors and improving the continuity of care. Assessing the adoption of EHRs involves evaluating the practices' EHR systems, their interoperability with other providers, and their use of patient portals for communication and access to medical records.

Finally, assessing the overall quality of care requires considering patient satisfaction surveys, outcomes data, and the practices' commitment to continuous improvement. Patient satisfaction surveys can provide valuable insights into patients' experiences, while outcomes data can measure the effectiveness of treatments. Practices that actively seek feedback from patients and use data to improve their services demonstrate a commitment to providing high-quality care. This ongoing evaluation is essential for improving breast cancer care accessibility and outcomes in the Dawson area.

For a more detailed visualization of physician locations, patient demographics, and healthcare resource distribution in ZIP Code 35963 and the surrounding areas, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a valuable visual representation of the healthcare landscape, allowing for a deeper understanding of the factors influencing breast cancer care accessibility.