36513, Calvert, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 36513, Calvert, Alabama is 6 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 36513 has some form of health insurance. 50.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.84 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 36513 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 50 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36513. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 97 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 58 health care providers accessible to residents in 36513, Calvert, Alabama.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 36513 and Primary Care Availability in Calvert**

This analysis examines the landscape of breast cancer care within ZIP code 36513, focusing on physician availability, practice characteristics, and access to supportive services. We also consider the broader context of primary care availability in Calvert, Alabama, to understand the overall healthcare ecosystem. The goal is to provide a nuanced assessment, highlighting strengths and areas for improvement.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in the availability of qualified physicians. ZIP code 36513, a predominantly rural area, presents unique challenges in this regard. Assessing physician-to-patient ratios is crucial. Data from the U.S. Census Bureau and the Alabama Department of Public Health can provide population figures, allowing us to calculate the number of primary care physicians, oncologists, and surgeons per 1,000 residents. A low ratio suggests potential access barriers, particularly for early detection and timely treatment.

While a comprehensive list of every practice is outside the scope of this analysis, identifying standout practices within or serving the area is essential. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to excellence, perhaps through accreditation by reputable organizations like the American College of Surgeons or the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC). They may also be distinguished by their use of advanced diagnostic tools, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), or by their participation in clinical trials. Investigating the specific services offered, including surgical options, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, is critical.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor. Rural communities often benefit significantly from telehealth, which can bridge geographical gaps and improve access to specialists. Evaluating the extent to which practices in or serving 36513 offer telemedicine consultations for breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and follow-up care is important. This includes assessing the availability of virtual appointments with oncologists, surgeons, and other healthcare professionals. The presence of remote monitoring capabilities, allowing patients to track symptoms and receive timely feedback, also warrants consideration.

Beyond medical treatment, the availability of mental health resources is critical for breast cancer patients. A cancer diagnosis can have a profound impact on mental and emotional well-being. Assessing the presence of oncology social workers, therapists, and support groups in the area is essential. Examining the integration of mental health services into the overall care plan, including referrals and collaborative care models, provides a more complete picture. Are there partnerships with local mental health providers? Are there resources to help patients navigate the emotional challenges of their diagnosis and treatment?

Primary care availability in Calvert, the broader community, is also a critical element. Primary care physicians play a vital role in breast cancer prevention, through screening recommendations and patient education. The availability of primary care physicians within Calvert, and the ease of access to their services, significantly impacts the overall health of the community. A robust primary care infrastructure can facilitate early detection and timely referrals to specialists.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the availability of patient navigation services. These services, often provided by oncology social workers or trained navigators, help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, coordinating appointments, and providing support. The presence of patient navigators can improve the patient experience and ensure that individuals receive the care they need in a timely manner.

The accessibility of financial assistance programs is another critical factor. Breast cancer treatment can be expensive, and many patients face financial hardship. Investigating the availability of financial assistance programs, such as those offered by the American Cancer Society or local charities, is important. This includes assessing whether practices help patients apply for these programs and whether they offer payment plans or other financial support options.

The analysis should also consider the availability of transportation services. For patients in rural areas, transportation can be a significant barrier to accessing care. Examining whether practices offer transportation assistance or partner with local organizations that provide transportation services is crucial. This includes assessing the availability of shuttle services, ride-sharing programs, or other transportation options.

The quality of communication between physicians and patients is another important factor. Patients need clear and concise information about their diagnosis, treatment options, and prognosis. Assessing the communication practices of physicians, including their use of plain language, their willingness to answer questions, and their ability to build rapport with patients, is essential. This includes evaluating the availability of written materials, such as brochures and educational websites, and the use of patient portals to share information and facilitate communication.

Finally, the analysis should consider the overall patient experience. This includes assessing the wait times for appointments, the ease of scheduling appointments, and the overall satisfaction of patients with their care. Gathering patient feedback through surveys or interviews can provide valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system. This includes assessing the cleanliness and comfort of the facilities, the friendliness and professionalism of the staff, and the overall quality of care provided.

In conclusion, the assessment of breast cancer care in ZIP code 36513 and the surrounding Calvert area requires a multi-faceted approach. It involves evaluating physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, primary care access, and patient support services. The goal is to identify areas of strength and opportunities for improvement, ultimately aiming to enhance the quality of care and improve outcomes for breast cancer patients.

To gain a deeper understanding of the geographical distribution of healthcare resources and identify potential disparities, consider exploring interactive maps and data visualizations. CartoChrome maps offers a powerful platform for visualizing and analyzing healthcare data, enabling you to identify patterns, trends, and areas of need.