36538, Frankville, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 36538, Frankville, Alabama is 12 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 63.91 percent of the residents in 36538 has some form of health insurance. 41.60 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 39.67 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 36538 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 53 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36538. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 68 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 156 health care providers accessible to residents in 36538, Frankville, Alabama.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Frankville, AL (ZIP Code 36538)

Analyzing the breast cancer care landscape in Frankville, Alabama (ZIP code 36538) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers physician availability, practice characteristics, technological integration, and the presence of supportive mental health resources, ultimately aiming to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" reflecting the overall accessibility and quality of care. This score isn't a single number, but rather a composite understanding derived from evaluating various factors within the community.

Frankville, a small, rural community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) forms the foundation of any healthcare system. In Frankville, primary care availability directly impacts breast cancer detection and management. Early detection, often facilitated by regular checkups with a PCP, is crucial for successful treatment. The presence of a robust primary care network allows for timely referrals to specialists, including oncologists and surgeons, should a breast cancer diagnosis be suspected.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator of healthcare accessibility. National averages can provide a benchmark, but rural areas often face shortages. A lower physician-to-patient ratio in Frankville suggests a higher likelihood of patients experiencing delays in accessing care. This could manifest as longer wait times for appointments, difficulty finding a PCP accepting new patients, and increased travel distances to receive care. The analysis needs to determine the actual ratio in the area, taking into account the number of active physicians and the population served.

Examining standout practices within Frankville is essential. Are there any primary care clinics or practices that demonstrate a commitment to breast cancer screening and early detection? Do they offer mammography services on-site, or do they have established referral pathways to imaging centers? The presence of such practices can significantly improve the Breast Cancer Score. Practices that actively promote breast cancer awareness, offer patient education materials, and provide comprehensive care from screening to diagnosis and initial treatment will naturally score higher.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural settings. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to expertise. Does Frankville have clinics or practices that offer telemedicine consultations for breast cancer-related concerns? This could include virtual follow-up appointments, consultations with oncologists, or access to support groups. The availability of telemedicine services can significantly improve the overall accessibility of care.

Mental health resources play a crucial role in breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer can be emotionally devastating, and access to mental health support is vital for patients. Does Frankville have mental health professionals who specialize in oncology or have experience working with cancer patients? Are there support groups or counseling services available locally? The presence of these resources can significantly improve the quality of care and the overall Breast Cancer Score.

The absence of these resources will severely impact the Breast Cancer Score. A lack of PCPs, long wait times, limited access to specialists, and a scarcity of mental health support would indicate a lower score. Conversely, a strong primary care network, readily available specialists, telemedicine options, and robust mental health support would contribute to a higher score.

Specific practices and clinics within Frankville need individual scrutiny. Each practice’s commitment to early detection, patient education, and referral pathways must be assessed. Do these practices participate in community outreach programs related to breast cancer awareness? Do they offer flexible appointment scheduling to accommodate patients' needs? These details contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the care landscape.

The analysis should also consider the availability of advanced diagnostic tools. Is there access to state-of-the-art mammography equipment, including 3D mammography (tomosynthesis)? Are there facilities for breast biopsies and other diagnostic procedures? The presence of these resources is critical for accurate and timely diagnosis.

Furthermore, the analysis needs to assess the insurance landscape. Does Frankville have a sufficient number of healthcare providers who accept a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid? This is particularly important in a rural community where a significant portion of the population may rely on these insurance programs.

The quality of care extends beyond clinical services. Patient experience is a critical factor. Are patients satisfied with the care they receive? Are they treated with respect and compassion? Gathering patient feedback through surveys or other means can provide valuable insights into the quality of care.

The Breast Cancer Score for Frankville, AL, is ultimately a reflection of the community's collective efforts to provide accessible, high-quality care. It is a dynamic measure that can be improved through strategic interventions. The score is not just about the availability of medical services, but also about the integration of technology, the availability of mental health support, and the overall patient experience.

This analysis aims to provide a clear picture of the current situation and to identify areas for improvement. The goal is to empower the community to take steps to enhance the quality of breast cancer care. This includes advocating for increased physician availability, supporting practices that prioritize early detection, promoting the adoption of telemedicine, and expanding access to mental health resources.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Frankville and surrounding areas, including physician locations, clinic locations, and access to resources, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful way to visualize the data and to identify areas where resources are needed most.