36112, Montgomery, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 36112, Montgomery, Alabama is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 13.82 percent of the residents in 36112 has some form of health insurance. 4.15 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 10.60 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 36112 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 15 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36112. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 0 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,242 health care providers accessible to residents in 36112, Montgomery, Alabama.

## Breast Cancer Score: An Analysis for Montgomery, AL (ZIP Code 36112)

Analyzing the quality of breast cancer care within a specific geographic area requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on ZIP Code 36112 in Montgomery, Alabama, evaluating the available resources and the performance of primary care physicians (PCPs) in relation to breast cancer detection, treatment, and overall patient well-being. This assessment aims to provide a 'Breast Cancer Score' by examining key factors impacting patient outcomes.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on accessible and competent primary care. In Montgomery, the availability of PCPs is a crucial starting point. Evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio within ZIP Code 36112 and the broader Montgomery area provides a preliminary understanding. A lower ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can potentially create barriers to timely appointments, preventative screenings, and ongoing management. Data from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or local health departments is essential to determine this ratio accurately. Furthermore, the geographic distribution of PCPs within the ZIP code itself is critical. Are practices concentrated in specific areas, potentially leaving other parts of 36112 underserved?

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. The 'Breast Cancer Score' considers the practices' commitment to breast cancer screening guidelines. This includes adherence to recommendations from organizations like the American Cancer Society (ACS) and the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) regarding mammography frequency and follow-up care. Assessing this requires examining patient records (with appropriate privacy safeguards) or surveying practices to determine their screening protocols. Practices that proactively remind patients about screenings, offer convenient appointment scheduling, and provide clear communication about results receive higher scores.

Several practices within 36112 and the surrounding Montgomery area may stand out for their exceptional breast cancer care. Identifying these "standout practices" involves a deeper dive. This can include analyzing patient satisfaction surveys, reviewing physician credentials and certifications (e.g., board certification in family medicine or internal medicine), and assessing the integration of specialists. Practices with established relationships with oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists, facilitating seamless referrals and coordinated care, are likely to achieve higher scores. The availability of on-site diagnostic services, such as mammography, further enhances the patient experience and contributes positively to the score.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare, particularly for patients in underserved areas or those with mobility limitations. The 'Breast Cancer Score' incorporates the adoption of telemedicine by PCPs within 36112. Practices offering virtual consultations for follow-up appointments, medication management, and discussing test results can significantly improve access to care. Assessing telemedicine adoption involves determining the types of virtual services offered, the technology used, and the practice's ability to ensure patient privacy and data security. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and accessibility, factors that are critical for early detection and management of breast cancer.

The emotional and psychological impact of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment is substantial. The 'Breast Cancer Score' must therefore consider the availability of mental health resources. This includes assessing whether PCPs routinely screen patients for depression and anxiety, and whether they offer referrals to mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models, either through in-house providers or strong referral networks, demonstrate a holistic approach to patient well-being. The availability of support groups, both in-person and online, is also a significant factor.

The 'Breast Cancer Score' is not merely a numerical ranking; it is a reflection of the entire healthcare ecosystem. It considers the availability of resources, the quality of care provided, and the practices' commitment to patient-centered care. The score is derived from the analysis of multiple factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, screening protocols, referral networks, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support.

The analysis also considers the impact of socioeconomic factors. The socioeconomic status of the population within ZIP Code 36112, including factors like income, education, and access to transportation, can significantly influence breast cancer outcomes. Lower socioeconomic status is often associated with delayed diagnosis, limited access to treatment, and poorer survival rates. The 'Breast Cancer Score' acknowledges these disparities and considers the practices' efforts to address them, such as offering financial assistance, providing culturally sensitive care, and collaborating with community organizations.

Data collection for this analysis requires a multi-pronged approach. Publicly available data from sources like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Alabama Department of Public Health, and the HRSA can provide information on physician-to-patient ratios and demographic characteristics. Surveys of PCPs within 36112, combined with patient feedback, can offer insights into screening practices, referral patterns, and patient satisfaction. Analyzing electronic health records (EHRs) (with appropriate privacy measures) can provide valuable data on screening rates, diagnosis times, and treatment outcomes.

The final 'Breast Cancer Score' for each practice or for the overall ZIP code would be based on a weighted scoring system. Each factor, such as screening adherence, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support, would be assigned a weight based on its importance in influencing patient outcomes. Practices would be ranked based on their overall scores, providing a comprehensive assessment of the breast cancer care landscape in 36112. This score would be dynamic, reflecting changes in healthcare practices, technological advancements, and evolving patient needs.

Ultimately, the goal of this analysis is to empower patients with information, encourage healthcare providers to improve their services, and contribute to better breast cancer outcomes within Montgomery, AL.

To visualize and explore the geographic distribution of PCPs, healthcare facilities, and other relevant data points within ZIP Code 36112 and the surrounding area, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers powerful mapping and data visualization tools that can help you gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape and identify areas for improvement.