36109, Montgomery, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 36109, Montgomery, Alabama is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.45 percent of the residents in 36109 has some form of health insurance. 39.80 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.99 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 36109 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,510 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36109. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,708 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,230 health care providers accessible to residents in 36109, Montgomery, Alabama.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Montgomery, AL (ZIP Code 36109) & Primary Care Landscape

This analysis delves into the breast cancer care landscape within ZIP code 36109 in Montgomery, Alabama, evaluating the availability and quality of primary care services, a crucial element in early detection and treatment. The assessment considers factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, notable medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, all contributing to a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" for the area.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on robust primary care. Regular checkups, screenings, and referrals are the cornerstones of early detection, significantly improving patient outcomes. In Montgomery, AL (36109), the physician-to-patient ratio plays a pivotal role. A higher ratio, indicating fewer primary care physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. This metric, when compared to state and national averages, provides a baseline for understanding the accessibility of care within the specified ZIP code. Publicly available data, such as that from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, is essential for this calculation.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. The evaluation of standout practices involves assessing several criteria. These include the use of evidence-based guidelines for breast cancer screening, patient satisfaction scores (derived from sources like Healthgrades or Zocdoc), and the integration of electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient communication and data management. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives and demonstrate a commitment to patient education are also prioritized. A detailed review of these factors helps identify those practices that excel in providing comprehensive and patient-centered care.

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant force in healthcare, particularly in areas with limited access to specialists or geographic barriers. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in 36109 is a key indicator of accessibility. This includes the availability of virtual consultations for routine checkups, follow-up appointments, and the delivery of test results. Practices that embrace telemedicine can extend their reach, providing care to patients who may face challenges in attending in-person appointments. The presence of telehealth options contributes positively to the overall "Breast Cancer Score" by enhancing access to care and reducing potential delays.

The holistic well-being of patients is increasingly recognized as an integral part of healthcare. The integration of mental health resources within primary care practices is a critical component of comprehensive breast cancer care. Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally taxing, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that offer on-site counseling services, referrals to mental health professionals, or utilize integrated behavioral health models demonstrate a commitment to addressing the psychological needs of their patients. This integration is factored into the "Breast Cancer Score," reflecting the importance of providing comprehensive support.

Specific practices within 36109 warrant individual examination. [Insert hypothetical practice names here, e.g., "Montgomery Family Clinic" or "River Region Primary Care"]. For example, assessing the availability of mammography services within these practices or their referral networks is vital. Do they have established relationships with local imaging centers? Do they actively promote breast cancer awareness and screening programs? These details contribute to the practice-specific component of the overall score. The same is true for the presence of certified breast cancer navigators, who can guide patients through the complex healthcare system.

The availability of specialized breast cancer services, such as surgical oncology and radiation therapy, is also indirectly assessed. While primary care is the focus, the ease of access to these specialists through referral networks is crucial. Practices that have strong relationships with oncologists and surgeons in the Montgomery area facilitate timely access to advanced care, improving patient outcomes. Proximity to major hospitals with comprehensive cancer centers also plays a role, as it impacts the speed and convenience of receiving specialized treatment.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 36109 is not a static number but a dynamic assessment reflecting the evolving healthcare landscape. Regular updates are essential to account for changes in physician availability, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of new technologies and treatment modalities. This continuous evaluation provides a valuable tool for patients seeking primary care in the area, allowing them to make informed decisions about their healthcare.

The final "Breast Cancer Score" for 36109, considering all these factors, would be a composite measure. It would reflect the overall accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of primary care services in the area. A higher score would indicate a more favorable environment for breast cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment. This score would serve as a valuable resource for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers.

To visualize and better understand the spatial distribution of these healthcare resources, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping tools that can visualize the locations of primary care practices, hospitals, and other relevant healthcare facilities in Montgomery, AL (36109), allowing you to see the data in a dynamic and geographically informed way. Explore the possibilities with CartoChrome maps today.