36117, Montgomery, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 36117, Montgomery, Alabama is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.87 percent of the residents in 36117 has some form of health insurance. 30.34 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.28 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 36117 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 14,157 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36117. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 7,200 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,825 health care providers accessible to residents in 36117, Montgomery, Alabama.

## Breast Cancer Score: A Montgomery, AL Analysis

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of breast cancer care within ZIP code 36117 in Montgomery, Alabama, focusing on primary care access and related resources. The goal is to provide a "Breast Cancer Score," a qualitative assessment of the healthcare landscape relevant to early detection, diagnosis, and support for individuals facing this disease. This score will consider factors like physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components of a comprehensive approach to breast cancer care.

ZIP code 36117, encompassing a significant portion of Montgomery, presents a unique healthcare environment. The density of population, socioeconomic factors, and existing healthcare infrastructure shape the accessibility and quality of care available. Understanding these nuances is critical for developing a meaningful Breast Cancer Score.

The first critical element is primary care availability. Primary care physicians (PCPs) act as the initial point of contact for patients, often coordinating preventative screenings like mammograms and providing referrals to specialists. The physician-to-patient ratio in 36117 is a crucial indicator. A low ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and reduced access to preventative care. Researching the specific ratio for this ZIP code and comparing it to state and national averages is fundamental. A concerningly low ratio would negatively impact the Breast Cancer Score.

Beyond raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs matters. Are they clustered in specific areas, leaving other parts of 36117 underserved? Examining the geographic distribution of practices is vital. The presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or other community health clinics, which often serve vulnerable populations, would be a positive factor, boosting the score. These clinics often provide affordable care and may have established relationships with breast cancer specialists.

Identifying "standout practices" is another critical component. This involves researching practices known for their commitment to breast cancer care. This could include practices that actively promote early detection through patient education, provide comprehensive breast exams, and have established relationships with reputable radiologists and oncologists. Practices with dedicated breast health centers or specialized programs would significantly enhance the score. Factors to consider include the availability of advanced imaging technologies, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), and the presence of patient navigators who guide individuals through the often-complex process of diagnosis and treatment.

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly important, particularly for access to specialists and follow-up care. Practices that offer telemedicine consultations for breast cancer-related concerns, such as discussing mammogram results or providing post-treatment support, demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and accessibility. The Breast Cancer Score would be positively influenced by practices actively embracing telemedicine. The ability to connect with specialists remotely can be especially beneficial for individuals living in underserved areas or those with mobility limitations.

The availability of mental health resources is another essential factor. A breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging, and access to mental health support is crucial for patient well-being. The Breast Cancer Score will consider the presence of mental health professionals within primary care practices or the availability of referrals to mental health specialists specializing in cancer care. Practices that offer support groups, individual therapy, or access to psycho-oncologists would significantly enhance the score. Collaboration between oncologists, primary care physicians, and mental health professionals creates a more holistic and supportive care environment.

In addition to these factors, the Breast Cancer Score will consider the presence of patient education materials, such as brochures, online resources, and educational programs. Practices that actively educate patients about breast cancer risk factors, screening guidelines, and treatment options demonstrate a commitment to empowering patients and promoting informed decision-making.

The quality of communication between healthcare providers is also crucial. Effective communication between PCPs, radiologists, oncologists, and other specialists ensures seamless care coordination and minimizes the risk of errors or delays. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) and have established protocols for communication would positively impact the score.

The Breast Cancer Score will be a dynamic assessment, reflecting the evolving healthcare landscape. It will be a qualitative evaluation based on available data, public information, and research. The final score will represent a snapshot of the current state of breast cancer care in 36117, highlighting strengths and weaknesses.

Ultimately, the goal of the Breast Cancer Score is to provide valuable information to individuals seeking breast cancer care in Montgomery, AL. It will help them make informed decisions about their healthcare and empower them to advocate for their needs. The score will also serve as a benchmark for healthcare providers, encouraging them to improve their services and provide the best possible care.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in 36117 and across Montgomery, including the geographic distribution of practices, physician density, and access to resources, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive visualizations that can help you navigate the complexities of healthcare access and make informed decisions about your health.