35980, Horton, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 35980, Horton, Alabama is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.79 percent of the residents in 35980 has some form of health insurance. 40.77 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.93 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 35980 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,960 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35980. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 765 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,192 health care providers accessible to residents in 35980, Horton, Alabama.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 35980 & Horton, Alabama

This analysis examines the availability and quality of breast cancer care within ZIP code 35980, encompassing the town of Horton, Alabama, and its surrounding areas. The goal is to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, considering factors crucial to patient outcomes, including physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine integration, and access to mental health resources. This evaluation will inform individuals seeking care and highlight areas for potential improvement.

Horton, a rural community, presents unique challenges in healthcare access. Geographic isolation, coupled with potential socioeconomic limitations, can significantly impact a patient's journey from initial screening to survivorship. Therefore, a thorough understanding of the local landscape is paramount.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Primary Care Availability:**

One of the most critical indicators of healthcare access is the physician-to-patient ratio. In ZIP code 35980, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) directly influences the likelihood of early detection and timely referrals. PCPs are often the first point of contact, responsible for recommending screenings, conducting initial examinations, and guiding patients through the diagnostic process. A low PCP-to-patient ratio can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses.

Data on the specific PCP-to-patient ratio within 35980 requires accessing publicly available databases and potentially contacting local healthcare providers. However, based on general trends in rural areas, it is reasonable to anticipate a lower ratio compared to more urbanized regions. This scarcity necessitates a focus on optimizing existing resources and exploring innovative solutions to bridge the gap.

Primary care availability in Horton itself is a key component. The presence of local clinics or practices significantly reduces travel burdens for residents, making healthcare more accessible. The quality and scope of services offered by these primary care facilities are also vital. Do they offer on-site mammography screening? Do they have established referral pathways to specialists? These factors directly impact the patient experience and the effectiveness of early intervention strategies.

**Standout Practices and Specialized Care:**

Identifying "standout practices" involves evaluating the quality of care offered by local healthcare providers. This includes assessing their experience in breast cancer diagnosis and treatment, their use of evidence-based practices, and their patient satisfaction scores. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive care, including access to specialists like oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists, would receive higher scores.

Within ZIP code 35980, the presence of dedicated breast cancer specialists is crucial. While Horton may not have a dedicated oncology center, the proximity to larger hospitals or medical centers in neighboring cities is a significant factor. The ease of access to these facilities, considering factors like travel time and transportation options, directly impacts the patient's ability to receive specialized care.

The availability of multidisciplinary care teams, which include surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and support staff, is another important consideration. These teams collaborate to develop individualized treatment plans, ensuring that patients receive the most appropriate and comprehensive care. The integration of these teams can greatly improve patient outcomes.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact:**

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool for expanding healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption in ZIP code 35980 can significantly improve the delivery of breast cancer care. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially speeding up the diagnosis and treatment process.

The extent of telemedicine integration among local providers is a key aspect of this analysis. Do primary care practices offer virtual consultations? Are specialists available for remote appointments? The availability of telehealth services can dramatically improve access to care for patients in Horton.

The availability of technology, including reliable internet access and user-friendly platforms, is also crucial for successful telemedicine implementation. Addressing any digital divide that may exist within the community is essential to ensure that all patients can benefit from these services.

**Mental Health Resources and Support Systems:**

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Access to mental health resources is therefore a critical component of comprehensive care. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups.

The availability of mental health services within ZIP code 35980, or in nearby communities, is a key factor. Are there local therapists who specialize in working with cancer patients? Are support groups available to provide emotional support and connect patients with others who have similar experiences?

The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan is also important. Do healthcare providers routinely screen patients for mental health concerns? Do they have established referral pathways to mental health professionals? Addressing the psychological needs of patients is essential for improving their quality of life and promoting positive outcomes.

**Overall Breast Cancer Score Assessment:**

Based on the factors discussed above, a "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP code 35980 would be determined. This score would reflect the overall availability and quality of breast cancer care in the area. The score would consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources.

This analysis is a starting point for understanding the breast cancer care landscape in Horton and the surrounding areas. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential to identify areas for improvement and ensure that all residents have access to the care they need.

**Call to Action:**

To gain a more visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 35980, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of healthcare resources, physician locations, and other relevant data, allowing you to analyze the data and explore the availability of breast cancer care in your area. Visit CartoChrome today to visualize the data and get a better understanding of the resources available to you.