36013, Cecil, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 36013, Cecil, Alabama is 86 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.82 percent of the residents in 36013 has some form of health insurance. 27.34 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.11 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 36013 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 95 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36013. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 60 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 154 health care providers accessible to residents in 36013, Cecil, Alabama.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 36013 and Primary Care Availability in Cecil**

Analyzing healthcare access, specifically concerning breast cancer care, within ZIP code 36013 (Cecil, Alabama) demands a multifaceted approach. It necessitates evaluating the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs), the backbone of preventative care and early detection, and assessing their ability to facilitate breast cancer screenings and referrals. Furthermore, the integration of telemedicine and the provision of mental health support, both crucial aspects of comprehensive cancer care, must be considered. This analysis will culminate in a subjective "Breast Cancer Score" for the area, acknowledging the inherent limitations of a purely quantitative assessment in capturing the nuances of healthcare delivery.

The physician-to-patient ratio within 36013 serves as a foundational indicator. While precise, publicly available data on this ratio specific to Cecil might be limited, regional data from the Alabama Department of Public Health can offer a proxy. A low PCP-to-patient ratio, especially when combined with a high percentage of elderly residents or those with chronic conditions, can strain the healthcare system. This strain can translate to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings like mammograms and clinical breast exams. The impact on breast cancer outcomes can be significant.

The availability of primary care itself is a critical factor. Are there enough PCPs actively practicing in the area? Do they accept new patients? Are they accepting the insurance plans common among residents of 36013? These practical considerations directly influence access to care. A lack of readily available PCPs forces individuals to seek care further afield, adding to the challenges of transportation and time, potentially impacting the likelihood of regular checkups and screenings. This is especially critical for breast cancer, where early detection is paramount.

Identifying standout practices within the area requires a deeper dive. This involves researching individual practices' commitment to breast cancer screening guidelines, their use of electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient patient management and follow-up, and their proactive approach to patient education. Practices that offer same-day or next-day appointments for urgent concerns, or those with extended hours, are generally more accessible. Practices that actively participate in community outreach programs related to women's health also deserve recognition.

The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices is a vital component of modern healthcare. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, particularly in rural areas like Cecil, allowing patients to consult with their physicians remotely for follow-up appointments, medication management, and even initial consultations. This can improve access to care for those with mobility issues or transportation limitations, thus facilitating timely breast cancer screenings and providing crucial support during treatment. Practices that have embraced telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and accessibility.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but essential aspect of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can be profoundly stressful, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within or near 36013 is critical. Ideally, primary care practices should have established referral pathways to mental health providers, ensuring that patients receive the comprehensive support they need. The integration of mental health services into the overall cancer care plan can significantly improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

Based on these factors, a "Breast Cancer Score" for 36013 would be a subjective assessment. Without access to comprehensive, real-time data on all the above-mentioned factors, a precise, numerical score is impossible. However, based on the general characteristics of a rural area, a score would likely be moderate. The presence of fewer resources, coupled with the potential for limited access to specialists and mental health services, would likely pull the score down. However, the presence of dedicated practices and the potential for telemedicine adoption could improve the score.

To improve the score, concerted efforts are needed. This includes attracting more PCPs to the area, promoting the adoption of telemedicine, and ensuring access to mental health services. Community outreach programs focused on breast cancer awareness and screening are also crucial. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government is essential to create a robust and accessible healthcare system.

In conclusion, assessing breast cancer care in 36013 requires a holistic understanding of the healthcare landscape. The physician-to-patient ratio, primary care availability, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources all play critical roles in determining the quality and accessibility of care. While challenges exist, particularly in rural areas, proactive measures can significantly improve breast cancer outcomes for residents of Cecil.

For a more in-depth, data-driven analysis of healthcare access in 36013 and surrounding areas, including mapping physician locations, patient demographics, and access to resources, explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of the healthcare landscape, enabling a more informed understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the system and facilitating the development of targeted interventions to improve breast cancer care.