36445, Frisco City, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 36445, Frisco City, Alabama is 17 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.27 percent of the residents in 36445 has some form of health insurance. 43.94 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 53.79 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 36445 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,049 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36445. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,144 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 100 health care providers accessible to residents in 36445, Frisco City, Alabama.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Frisco City, Alabama (ZIP Code 36445)

Analyzing the healthcare landscape of Frisco City, Alabama (ZIP code 36445) through the lens of breast cancer care requires a multi-faceted approach. We must evaluate the availability and quality of primary care, the presence of specialists, the utilization of technology, and the integration of mental health support. This analysis will culminate in a hypothetical "Breast Cancer Score" reflecting the overall preparedness of the community to address this critical health concern.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on robust primary care. Early detection, crucial for improved outcomes, is often initiated by primary care physicians. In Frisco City, the availability of primary care physicians is a significant factor. Physician-to-patient ratios are a key metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed screenings, and ultimately, potentially later-stage diagnoses. Determining the precise physician-to-patient ratio requires accessing publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA). This data will be crucial to understanding the accessibility of primary care within the community.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Does the primary care infrastructure emphasize preventive care, including routine mammograms and breast exams? Are physicians well-versed in the latest breast cancer screening guidelines and treatment protocols? Assessing these aspects requires a deeper dive into the practices themselves. This involves examining their patient reviews, accreditations, and affiliations with larger healthcare systems. Identifying standout practices, those consistently demonstrating excellence in patient care, would be beneficial to the overall score. These practices often serve as benchmarks for others, driving up the overall quality of care within the community.

The presence and accessibility of specialists are equally vital. Oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists specializing in breast cancer are essential for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. Frisco City's proximity to larger medical centers and specialist networks is a critical consideration. Does the community have access to these specialists within a reasonable travel distance? The availability of these specialists directly impacts the timeliness and effectiveness of treatment. The absence of specialists necessitates travel to larger cities, potentially creating barriers to care for patients, especially those with mobility limitations or limited financial resources.

Technology plays an increasingly important role in healthcare delivery, and its adoption in Frisco City warrants close examination. Telemedicine, in particular, can bridge geographical gaps, improve access to specialists, and facilitate remote monitoring of patients. The extent of telemedicine adoption among primary care physicians and specialists in the area is a key indicator. Are physicians utilizing telehealth platforms for consultations, follow-up appointments, and patient education? The availability of digital mammography and other advanced imaging technologies also impacts the quality of care.

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging. The integration of mental health resources is therefore an essential component of comprehensive care. Does the community have access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in supporting cancer patients? Are these services readily accessible and affordable? The availability of support groups and other community resources also contributes to the overall well-being of patients. The integration of mental health services is a crucial element in improving the overall quality of life for those impacted by breast cancer.

To develop a "Breast Cancer Score," we would consider several weighted factors. Primary care availability (physician-to-patient ratio, quality of care) would carry a significant weight, perhaps 30%. Specialist availability (oncologists, surgeons, radiologists) would be another major component, accounting for 25%. Technology adoption (telemedicine, digital imaging) would be weighted at 20%. Mental health resources (availability, accessibility) would be assigned a 15% weight. The remaining 10% could be allocated to community resources, patient reviews, and overall healthcare system integration.

The score would be calculated based on these factors. A higher score would indicate a more prepared and supportive environment for breast cancer patients. This score would be a valuable tool for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers to assess the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system and identify areas for improvement.

In the context of Frisco City, a low score could indicate several challenges. These might include a shortage of primary care physicians, limited access to specialists, a lack of telemedicine adoption, and inadequate mental health support. Conversely, a high score would reflect a strong healthcare infrastructure, with readily available resources and a patient-centered approach.

Ultimately, the "Breast Cancer Score" is not just a number. It's a reflection of the community's commitment to the health and well-being of its residents. It highlights the importance of proactive measures, such as early detection, access to specialists, and comprehensive support services, in improving outcomes for breast cancer patients. The analysis is a starting point for a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape.

For a visual representation of healthcare resources in Frisco City and the surrounding areas, including physician locations, specialist availability, and hospital affiliations, explore the power of data visualization with CartoChrome maps. Visualize the data and gain insights into the healthcare landscape.