36075, Shorter, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 36075, Shorter, Alabama is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.23 percent of the residents in 36075 has some form of health insurance. 54.12 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 55.25 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 36075 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 234 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36075. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 590 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,109 health care providers accessible to residents in 36075, Shorter, Alabama.

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment are complex, demanding a coordinated approach involving primary care physicians, specialists, and support services. Assessing the quality of care available within a specific geographic area, such as Shorter, Alabama (ZIP code 36075), requires a multifaceted analysis. This analysis will evaluate the availability of primary care physicians, their capacity to screen for and manage breast cancer, and the broader healthcare landscape, including mental health resources and telemedicine adoption.

Shorter, Alabama, is a small town, and the availability of healthcare resources is likely limited compared to urban areas. Evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial first step. Data from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) can provide insights into the number of primary care physicians practicing within the ZIP code or the surrounding county (Macon County). A low physician-to-patient ratio can indicate a shortage of primary care providers, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses and treatment. Access to primary care is the gateway to preventive care, including breast cancer screenings like mammograms and clinical breast exams.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care practices matters. Identifying standout practices involves examining factors such as patient satisfaction scores, the adoption of electronic health records (EHRs), and the integration of evidence-based guidelines for breast cancer screening and management. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives and demonstrate a commitment to patient education are likely to provide superior care. These practices may also have established referral pathways to specialists, such as oncologists and surgeons, crucial for timely and effective treatment.

Telemedicine has the potential to bridge geographical barriers and improve access to healthcare, especially in rural areas. Assessing the adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in Shorter is vital. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and access to specialists who may not be readily available locally. Practices that utilize telemedicine for breast cancer screening education, follow-up appointments, or mental health support can enhance patient convenience and improve outcomes.

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging. The availability of mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive care. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in oncology. Primary care practices that proactively screen for mental health concerns and offer referrals to mental health professionals demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health providers ensures patients receive the necessary emotional support throughout their journey.

Specific data on individual practices in Shorter can be challenging to obtain due to privacy regulations. However, publicly available resources such as the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Physician Compare tool and state medical board websites can provide some information on physician credentials and practice affiliations. Patient reviews on platforms like Healthgrades or Vitals can offer insights into patient experiences. Further research may involve contacting local hospitals or healthcare systems to inquire about their affiliations with primary care practices in the area.

The analysis of breast cancer care in Shorter should also consider the availability of specialized services. This includes access to diagnostic imaging facilities, such as mammography centers, and oncology practices. The proximity of these services to primary care practices is crucial for seamless referrals and timely access to care. The presence of a multidisciplinary team, including surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and nurses specializing in breast cancer, is a strong indicator of a comprehensive care model.

Furthermore, the analysis should evaluate the community's awareness of breast cancer prevention and early detection. This includes the availability of educational materials, outreach programs, and support groups. Primary care practices that actively participate in community health initiatives and promote breast cancer awareness contribute to improved patient outcomes. Collaboration with local organizations and advocacy groups can amplify these efforts.

The assessment of primary care availability in Shorter, Alabama, must consider the broader healthcare ecosystem. This includes the presence of hospitals, specialized clinics, and support services. The availability of transportation options is also a crucial factor, as patients may need to travel to access specialized care. The overall healthcare infrastructure significantly impacts the quality and accessibility of breast cancer care.

In conclusion, evaluating breast cancer care in Shorter, Alabama (ZIP code 36075), requires a detailed examination of primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of individual practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the broader healthcare landscape. While obtaining granular data can be challenging, a comprehensive analysis will highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system and identify areas for improvement. This information can be used to inform healthcare planning, patient education, and advocacy efforts.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in Shorter, Alabama, and gain a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive maps that can help you identify the locations of primary care physicians, specialists, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities. They can also visualize demographic data, allowing for a more comprehensive assessment of healthcare access and disparities within the community.