35987, Steele, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 35987, Steele, Alabama is 10 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.83 percent of the residents in 35987 has some form of health insurance. 29.76 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.93 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 35987 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 663 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35987. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 517 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 622 health care providers accessible to residents in 35987, Steele, Alabama.

The following analysis assesses breast cancer care and primary care availability within the context of ZIP code 35987, encompassing the town of Steele, Alabama. This evaluation considers factors crucial to patient outcomes, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources.

Steele, Alabama, a relatively small community, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The availability of primary care physicians serves as a critical foundation for early detection and effective management of breast cancer. Regular screenings, referrals to specialists, and ongoing support are all facilitated by a robust primary care infrastructure.

Evaluating physician-to-patient ratios is a fundamental step in understanding the healthcare landscape. Accurate data on the exact number of primary care physicians practicing within ZIP code 35987 is crucial. Publicly available resources like the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) and the Alabama Department of Public Health can provide this information. A low physician-to-patient ratio, indicating a higher concentration of doctors, generally translates to easier access to care and potentially shorter wait times for appointments. Conversely, a high ratio suggests potential challenges in securing timely appointments and receiving comprehensive care.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of care is significantly influenced by the presence of standout medical practices. Identifying these practices requires examining several factors. Accreditation by reputable organizations, such as the American College of Surgeons' Commission on Cancer, is a strong indicator of adherence to high standards of care. Patient reviews and testimonials, readily available online through platforms like Healthgrades and Vitals, offer valuable insights into patient experiences, including communication, empathy, and overall satisfaction. The range of services offered by a practice, including mammography, ultrasound, and biopsy capabilities, is also important.

Telemedicine adoption has emerged as a transformative force in healthcare, particularly in rural areas like Steele. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving access to specialists who may not be readily available locally. Assessing the extent of telemedicine integration involves identifying practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals. This information can be found by checking the practice websites and calling to inquire about telemedicine options.

The mental health of breast cancer patients is an often-overlooked but critically important aspect of care. The diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer can be emotionally and psychologically taxing, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is therefore essential. Identifying practices that offer or refer patients to mental health services is a key part of this assessment. Information on local mental health providers can often be found through primary care physicians, local hospitals, and community health organizations.

Evaluating the specific practices within ZIP code 35987 requires a detailed investigation. This involves researching the websites of local clinics and hospitals, contacting practices directly to inquire about their services and telemedicine offerings, and reviewing patient feedback. The local hospital, if one exists, often plays a central role in providing comprehensive cancer care, including diagnostic services, treatment options, and supportive care.

Furthermore, the presence of community resources, such as the American Cancer Society or local support groups, can greatly enhance the quality of life for breast cancer patients. These organizations often provide educational materials, emotional support, and practical assistance, such as transportation to appointments.

In conclusion, assessing breast cancer care and primary care availability in Steele, Alabama, necessitates a comprehensive approach. This includes evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout medical practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and determining the availability of mental health resources. This detailed analysis will highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare infrastructure, ultimately informing patients and healthcare providers alike.

To gain a more visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Steele, Alabama, and the surrounding areas, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a detailed geographic representation of healthcare resources, including the location of physicians, hospitals, and support services. This can be a valuable tool for patients seeking care and for healthcare providers planning to improve access to care in the community.