36314, Black, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 36314, Black, Alabama is 7 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.16 percent of the residents in 36314 has some form of health insurance. 70.24 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 45.01 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 36314 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 140 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36314. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 114 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 117 health care providers accessible to residents in 36314, Black, Alabama.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Dothan, Alabama (ZIP Code 36314) & Primary Care Access for Black Residents**

Analyzing the landscape of breast cancer care within ZIP Code 36314, Dothan, Alabama, and specifically examining the availability of primary care for Black residents, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into key indicators, aiming to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, considering physician-to-patient ratios, practice quality, technology adoption, and mental health resources. This is not a simple ranking, but an evaluation of the system's strengths and weaknesses.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on the availability of accessible and quality primary care. For Black residents in Dothan, this is a critical starting point. A robust primary care system facilitates early detection through routine screenings and provides a crucial point of entry for patients navigating the complexities of diagnosis and treatment. Inadequate access to primary care can lead to delayed diagnoses, poorer outcomes, and increased health disparities. The 'Breast Cancer Score' considers this access as a foundational element.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can strain the healthcare system, leading to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potential challenges in coordinating care. Data on the number of primary care physicians, oncologists, radiologists, and surgeons within the ZIP code, and their respective patient loads, must be analyzed. Furthermore, the distribution of these physicians across the geographic area within 36314 and their acceptance of different insurance plans (including Medicaid and Medicare) will be crucial in evaluating accessibility for all residents, particularly Black residents.

Identifying standout practices within the area is essential. This involves evaluating the quality of care provided by individual clinics and hospitals. Factors to consider include the availability of advanced imaging technologies like 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), the implementation of evidence-based screening guidelines, the presence of multidisciplinary care teams (including surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and nurses), and patient satisfaction scores. The accreditation status of hospitals and cancer centers (e.g., by the American College of Surgeons) is a significant indicator of quality. Furthermore, examining the practice's commitment to cultural competency and addressing health disparities within the Black community is paramount.

Telemedicine adoption has significantly reshaped healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. The 'Breast Cancer Score' will evaluate the extent to which telemedicine is utilized in 36314. This includes the availability of virtual consultations with primary care physicians, oncologists, and specialists. Telemedicine can improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues, those living in remote areas, or those facing transportation barriers. The adoption of telehealth platforms for follow-up appointments, medication management, and patient education will be assessed.

The mental health component of breast cancer care is often overlooked but is critically important. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can profoundly impact a patient's emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The 'Breast Cancer Score' will evaluate the availability of mental health resources within the healthcare system. This includes access to therapists, counselors, support groups, and psychiatric services. The integration of mental health services into the cancer care pathway, such as providing on-site counseling or referrals to mental health professionals, is a key indicator of a comprehensive approach.

Specific examples of practices and resources in Dothan will be investigated. This includes identifying hospitals and clinics with dedicated breast cancer centers, assessing the availability of patient navigators to guide patients through the healthcare system, and evaluating the existence of support groups and educational programs for patients and their families. The analysis will also consider the presence of community outreach programs aimed at increasing breast cancer awareness and promoting early detection within the Black community.

The 'Breast Cancer Score' will also take into account the availability of financial assistance programs for patients struggling with the costs of treatment. Breast cancer treatment can be expensive, and financial burdens can significantly impact a patient's ability to access care. The availability of programs to help patients with medication costs, transportation expenses, and other financial needs is an important aspect of a comprehensive care system.

The analysis will assess the availability of resources specifically targeted towards the Black community. This includes assessing the presence of culturally sensitive healthcare providers, community health workers, and educational materials tailored to the specific needs and concerns of Black women. The analysis will also evaluate the involvement of community organizations in breast cancer awareness and prevention efforts.

The data will be analyzed to identify any disparities in access to care or treatment outcomes between different racial and socioeconomic groups within the ZIP code. This will involve comparing screening rates, stage at diagnosis, treatment completion rates, and survival rates among different population groups. Addressing these disparities is a critical component of improving breast cancer care for all residents.

The final 'Breast Cancer Score' for ZIP Code 36314 will be a composite measure, reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system across all the aforementioned dimensions. It will not be a simple numerical ranking, but a nuanced assessment that highlights areas for improvement and identifies best practices. This assessment is intended to be a starting point for community stakeholders, healthcare providers, and policymakers to work together to improve breast cancer care and reduce health disparities in Dothan, Alabama.

To gain a deeper visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Dothan, including the geographic distribution of healthcare providers, patient demographics, and access to resources, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide interactive visualizations of the data, allowing you to identify patterns, trends, and disparities in a clear and accessible format.