36401, Evergreen, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 36401, Evergreen, Alabama is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.38 percent of the residents in 36401 has some form of health insurance. 47.46 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.33 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 36401 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,838 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36401. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,537 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 87 health care providers accessible to residents in 36401, Evergreen, Alabama.

The analysis below focuses on breast cancer care within ZIP Code 36401, encompassing the town of Evergreen, Alabama. This assessment considers various factors, including physician availability, primary care resources, telemedicine integration, and mental health support, to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" perspective. While a precise numerical score is not provided, the analysis offers a qualitative ranking reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape.

Evergreen, a rural community, faces inherent challenges in healthcare access, particularly concerning specialized services like oncology. The availability of primary care physicians serves as the foundation for early detection and referral, crucial elements in breast cancer outcomes. Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator. A lower ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses. Data on the exact physician-to-patient ratio within 36401 requires specific, up-to-date information from sources like the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners or the US Census Bureau, which is beyond the scope of this analysis. However, the rural nature of the area suggests the ratio may be less favorable than in more urban settings.

Primary care practices in Evergreen are the initial point of contact for patients. The quality of these practices, including the availability of preventative screenings like mammograms and the efficiency of referral pathways, significantly impacts breast cancer detection rates. Practices demonstrating a commitment to patient education, regular breast exams, and proactive screening protocols will likely score higher in our assessment. Standout practices would be those that actively participate in community outreach programs, promote breast cancer awareness, and provide easily accessible information on risk factors and early warning signs. The ability to quickly connect patients with diagnostic services, such as mammography and biopsy, is another key differentiator.

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with specialists, receive counseling, and participate in support groups remotely. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring, will receive a higher score. This is especially valuable for follow-up appointments, medication management, and accessing mental health services. The availability of reliable internet access in the Evergreen area is a crucial factor in the success of telemedicine initiatives.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in breast cancer care, yet they are essential. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can cause significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and fear. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in oncology, is a vital component of comprehensive care. Practices that offer or refer patients to mental health support services will be viewed more favorably. This includes access to support groups, individual therapy, and psychiatric care if needed. The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan demonstrates a commitment to holistic patient well-being.

Specific details regarding individual practices within 36401 are difficult to obtain without direct access to patient data and practice-specific information. A thorough assessment would require a review of each practice's website, patient reviews, and public health records. However, the general principles outlined above can be used to evaluate the quality of care. Practices that prioritize preventative care, offer comprehensive diagnostic services, embrace telemedicine, and provide access to mental health resources will likely receive a higher score.

The overall "Breast Cancer Score" for healthcare in Evergreen, Alabama, is likely influenced by the challenges inherent in rural healthcare delivery. The availability of specialized services, such as oncology, may be limited, requiring patients to travel to larger cities for treatment. The success of the local healthcare system relies heavily on the strength of the primary care network, the proactive approach to preventative screenings, and the ability to connect patients with necessary resources.

To improve the “Breast Cancer Score” in Evergreen, several areas require attention. Increasing the number of primary care physicians, particularly those with a focus on women's health, is crucial. Expanding access to mammography and other diagnostic services within the community would also be beneficial. Promoting telemedicine adoption and ensuring reliable internet access are essential for connecting patients with specialists and mental health professionals. Finally, integrating mental health services into the overall care plan is critical for supporting patients' emotional well-being.

In conclusion, the "Breast Cancer Score" for Evergreen, Alabama, reflects the realities of rural healthcare. While challenges exist, the community can improve its score by focusing on primary care, preventative screenings, telemedicine, and mental health support.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Evergreen and surrounding areas, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and demographic data, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping tools that can help you visualize healthcare resources and identify potential gaps in care. Explore the possibilities of CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment in your community.