36362, Fort Rucker, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 36362, Fort Rucker, Alabama is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 58.91 percent of the residents in 36362 has some form of health insurance. 2.44 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.70 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 36362 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,010 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36362. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 13 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 577 health care providers accessible to residents in 36362, Fort Rucker, Alabama.

The landscape of breast cancer care within ZIP Code 36362, encompassing Fort Rucker, Alabama, presents a complex picture, demanding a nuanced understanding of resource availability, physician expertise, and patient support systems. Evaluating the quality of care requires a multi-faceted approach, considering not only the presence of medical professionals but also the accessibility of services and the integration of holistic care. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive overview, focusing on key factors that contribute to a patient's experience and the overall effectiveness of breast cancer treatment within this specific geographical area.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical metric for assessing healthcare access. In the context of breast cancer, this translates to the availability of oncologists, surgeons specializing in breast procedures, radiologists skilled in mammography and related imaging, and primary care physicians capable of early detection and ongoing support. While precise figures for ZIP Code 36362 alone are difficult to obtain due to data aggregation, the overall physician density in the surrounding Dale County area, coupled with the military population served by Fort Rucker, likely influences the availability of specialized care. The proximity to larger medical centers in Dothan, Alabama, becomes a significant factor, potentially mitigating the impact of lower local physician-to-patient ratios.

Primary care availability in Fort Rucker itself is paramount. Early detection through regular screenings and prompt referrals are crucial for successful breast cancer treatment. The presence of a robust primary care network, including family physicians and internal medicine specialists, is essential for providing these services. The military healthcare system, including the Lyster Army Health Clinic, plays a central role in this regard. Evaluating the efficiency of the referral process, the wait times for appointments, and the availability of preventative screenings are all vital aspects of assessing the quality of primary care within the Fort Rucker community.

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive into the specific services offered and the patient experience. This includes evaluating the qualifications and experience of the physicians, the availability of advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies, and the integration of multidisciplinary care teams. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, offering personalized treatment plans, emotional support, and access to clinical trials, are likely to be considered exemplary. Information about patient satisfaction, obtained through surveys and online reviews, can also provide valuable insights into the quality of care provided.

Telemedicine adoption has the potential to significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural or underserved areas. The ability to consult with specialists remotely, receive follow-up care, and participate in support groups online can reduce the burden of travel and improve patient convenience. Assessing the extent to which telemedicine is utilized within ZIP Code 36362, including the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online educational resources, is essential for evaluating the overall quality of care. The integration of telemedicine into the military healthcare system at Fort Rucker can be a significant advantage.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of breast cancer care. The diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, including therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, who specialize in oncology and cancer-related issues is essential. Assessing the availability of these resources within the Fort Rucker community, including access to support groups, individual therapy, and medication management, is crucial for providing comprehensive patient care. The military healthcare system often provides robust mental health services.

Specific details regarding individual physicians and practices within ZIP Code 36362 are challenging to provide due to privacy regulations and the dynamic nature of healthcare information. However, the overall assessment suggests that the availability of breast cancer care in this area is likely influenced by the resources of the military healthcare system, the proximity to larger medical centers in Dothan, and the overall physician density in the surrounding Dale County area. The quality of care is likely dependent on the integration of multidisciplinary teams, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources.

The Lyster Army Health Clinic, serving Fort Rucker, is a critical point of access. Assessing the clinic's capabilities, including its mammography services, its referral process to specialists, and its integration of mental health support, is essential for understanding the landscape of breast cancer care in this area. The efficiency of the referral process to off-post specialists and the availability of support services for military families are also important considerations.

Furthermore, the impact of the military population on healthcare access and the specific needs of military families impacted by breast cancer should be considered. The unique challenges faced by military families, including frequent relocations and the stress of military life, can influence the patient experience. The availability of resources specifically tailored to the needs of military families, such as support groups for spouses and children, can significantly improve the quality of care.

In conclusion, a comprehensive evaluation of breast cancer care within ZIP Code 36362 requires a multi-faceted approach, considering physician-to-patient ratios, primary care availability, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. The military healthcare system, including the Lyster Army Health Clinic, plays a crucial role in providing care, and the proximity to larger medical centers in Dothan, Alabama, can enhance access to specialized services. Ultimately, understanding the specific needs of the military population and the availability of tailored support services are critical for providing comprehensive and effective breast cancer care.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape within ZIP Code 36362 and beyond, including the locations of healthcare facilities, physician specialties, and patient demographics, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Use their data visualization tools to uncover valuable insights and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.