36473, Range, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 36473, Range, Alabama is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.90 percent of the residents in 36473 has some form of health insurance. 70.28 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 36.84 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 36473 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 136 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36473. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 64 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 307 health care providers accessible to residents in 36473, Range, Alabama.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 36473 and Primary Care Availability in Range**

This analysis delves into the landscape of breast cancer care and primary care access within ZIP code 36473, located in Range, Alabama. The assessment considers various factors crucial for patient outcomes, including physician availability, the presence of specialized services, the adoption of telehealth, and the integration of mental health support. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive overview, identifying strengths and weaknesses to inform healthcare decisions and potentially guide improvements in the local healthcare ecosystem.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on a strong primary care infrastructure. Primary care physicians (PCPs) serve as the initial point of contact, providing preventative screenings, early detection efforts, and referrals to specialists. In ZIP code 36473, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A low ratio, meaning a limited number of PCPs relative to the population, can lead to delayed appointments, reduced access to care, and potential delays in diagnosis and treatment. Conversely, a high ratio indicates a more accessible system, enabling patients to receive timely and comprehensive care. Data from the Alabama Department of Public Health, combined with publicly available information from healthcare directories and insurance provider networks, should be used to determine the precise ratio. This will be a crucial starting point for evaluating the overall health of the community.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality and accessibility of primary care services are paramount. The presence of board-certified PCPs, the availability of same-day or next-day appointments, and the acceptance of a wide range of insurance plans all contribute to patient convenience and satisfaction. The analysis should also consider the geographic distribution of primary care practices within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas. Are practices clustered in certain locations, potentially creating access barriers for residents in more rural or underserved areas? Transportation challenges, especially for elderly or low-income patients, must also be considered.

Once primary care access is established, the availability of specialized breast cancer services becomes crucial. This includes access to qualified radiologists, oncologists, surgeons, and support staff. The analysis should identify the presence of these specialists within the ZIP code or in nearby communities. Are there dedicated breast cancer centers or clinics that offer comprehensive care, including mammography, biopsies, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical options? The accreditation status of these facilities, such as those from the American College of Radiology or the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers, is a significant indicator of quality and adherence to established standards of care.

The analysis must also examine the level of integration between primary care and specialized breast cancer services. Do PCPs have established referral pathways to specialists? Are there systems in place to facilitate communication and coordination of care between different providers? This seamless integration is essential to prevent patients from falling through the cracks and to ensure they receive the most appropriate and timely treatment.

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool for expanding access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas like Range. The analysis should assess the adoption of telemedicine by both primary care practices and breast cancer specialists in ZIP code 36473. Are virtual consultations available for initial assessments, follow-up appointments, and medication management? Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for patients who have difficulty traveling to appointments or who live in remote areas. The availability of telehealth services can significantly improve patient convenience and reduce the burden on the healthcare system.

Breast cancer treatment can be a physically and emotionally challenging experience. The analysis must consider the availability of mental health resources to support patients throughout their journey. Are there mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in working with cancer patients? Do local hospitals or clinics offer support groups or other forms of psychosocial support? The integration of mental health services into breast cancer care is essential to address the psychological impact of the disease and to improve patients' overall well-being.

Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code is a key objective. This involves recognizing healthcare providers who demonstrate excellence in various areas, such as patient satisfaction, clinical outcomes, and the adoption of innovative practices. This assessment can be based on a combination of factors, including patient reviews, physician ratings, and data on quality indicators, such as screening rates and treatment success rates. Highlighting these practices can serve as a model for other providers and can help patients make informed decisions about their care.

The analysis should also consider the role of community outreach and education. Are there programs in place to raise awareness about breast cancer, promote early detection, and provide education about risk factors and prevention strategies? Community outreach efforts can play a crucial role in reaching underserved populations and reducing health disparities.

In conclusion, the quality of breast cancer care and primary care availability in ZIP code 36473, and the broader Range area, depends on a complex interplay of factors. Physician-to-patient ratios, the availability of specialized services, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health support, and the presence of standout practices are all critical elements. A comprehensive analysis of these factors is essential to identify strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement.

To visualize the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, identify areas of high need, and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Range, consider utilizing the power of CartoChrome maps. Explore the spatial relationships between healthcare providers, patient populations, and other relevant data points to gain valuable insights and make data-driven decisions.