36528, Dauphin Island, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 36528, Dauphin Island, Alabama is 5 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.57 percent of the residents in 36528 has some form of health insurance. 47.26 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.14 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 36528 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 150 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36528. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 646 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 40 health care providers accessible to residents in 36528, Dauphin Island, Alabama.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Dauphin Island, AL (ZIP Code 36528)

Analyzing the availability of breast cancer care within ZIP code 36528, Dauphin Island, Alabama, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will consider the presence of primary care physicians (PCPs), their capacity to screen and refer, the overall physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health support, all critical elements in a comprehensive breast cancer care pathway. This analysis aims to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment for this specific geographic area.

Dauphin Island, a barrier island community, presents unique challenges regarding healthcare access. Its relatively small population and geographic isolation necessitate a careful examination of resource availability. The first crucial factor is the presence and accessibility of PCPs. These physicians are the gatekeepers to early detection and treatment. They are responsible for initiating screenings, providing initial diagnoses, and referring patients to specialists, including oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists. The number of PCPs actively practicing within or immediately adjacent to the ZIP code is a primary determinant of the score.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of physicians relative to the population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and reduced access to preventative care. Data from the U.S. Census Bureau and the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners must be cross-referenced to ascertain this ratio accurately. A higher ratio, conversely, suggests greater access to care. This ratio directly impacts the overall score, with a lower ratio negatively affecting the rating.

Another vital aspect is the capacity of the existing PCPs to provide breast cancer screening and referral services. Do they offer mammograms on-site, or do they have established relationships with local radiology centers? The presence of digital mammography equipment and the availability of experienced radiologists are essential components. Furthermore, the efficiency of the referral process, including the time it takes to schedule appointments with specialists, plays a significant role. The speed and ease with which a patient can access these services directly influence the score.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in geographically isolated areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care. The availability of telehealth services, including virtual consultations with oncologists, breast surgeons, and mental health professionals, significantly boosts the score. The presence of secure video conferencing platforms, patient portals, and remote monitoring capabilities further enhances the rating.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked, yet critical, component of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional and psychological well-being. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is essential. The presence of these resources, whether through local clinics, hospitals, or online platforms, directly impacts the overall score. The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan is a sign of a high-quality healthcare system.

Standout practices within the area are a key factor in determining the score. Are there any practices that have demonstrated a commitment to breast cancer care through specialized programs, community outreach, or patient education? Practices that actively participate in breast cancer awareness campaigns, offer comprehensive screening programs, and provide personalized care plans would be highly rated. The implementation of patient navigation programs, which help patients navigate the complex healthcare system, is another positive indicator.

Specific practices should be assessed for their commitment to patient-centered care. This includes factors such as the availability of bilingual staff, extended office hours, and the ability to accommodate patients with disabilities. Patient reviews and satisfaction surveys provide valuable insights into the quality of care provided by each practice. Practices with consistently positive reviews and a strong emphasis on patient communication and support would receive higher scores.

The overall "Breast Cancer Score" for Dauphin Island, AL (ZIP Code 36528) is a composite score derived from the factors discussed above. It is not a single number but rather a holistic assessment of the available resources and their accessibility. The score will reflect the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in the area, highlighting areas for improvement. The score will be influenced by the physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of screening and referral services, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the presence of standout practices.

The score would likely be affected by the island's remoteness. The lack of a large hospital or cancer center within the ZIP code would likely necessitate travel to Mobile or other nearby areas for specialized care. This travel burden would negatively affect the score, emphasizing the importance of telemedicine and efficient referral processes.

The score would be improved by the presence of primary care physicians who actively screen and refer patients, a strong telemedicine infrastructure, and readily available mental health support. The score would be further enhanced by practices that offer specialized breast cancer programs, patient navigation services, and a commitment to patient-centered care.

In conclusion, assessing the breast cancer care landscape in Dauphin Island is a complex undertaking. A comprehensive analysis requires careful consideration of all the factors discussed above. While this analysis provides a framework for evaluating the area's strengths and weaknesses, further investigation and data collection are needed to arrive at a definitive "Breast Cancer Score." The availability of accurate and up-to-date information is critical for making informed decisions about healthcare access and resource allocation.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Dauphin Island and surrounding areas, including the location of physicians, hospitals, and other healthcare resources, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their maps can provide valuable insights into healthcare accessibility and resource distribution.