36548, Leroy, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 36548, Leroy, Alabama is 13 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.94 percent of the residents in 36548 has some form of health insurance. 42.14 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.56 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 36548 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 397 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36548. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 158 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 193 health care providers accessible to residents in 36548, Leroy, Alabama.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Leroy, Alabama (ZIP Code 36548)**

The following analysis evaluates the availability and quality of breast cancer care within the Leroy, Alabama (ZIP code 36548) area. This assessment considers factors crucial to patient outcomes, including physician access, technology adoption, and supportive care services. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape and identify areas of strength and potential improvement. This analysis focuses on primary care availability, as it is the crucial starting point for early detection and referral.

Leroy, Alabama, a rural community, presents unique challenges in healthcare access. The limited population density often translates to a scarcity of medical professionals and specialized services. Therefore, the analysis considers the broader context of the region, including physician-to-patient ratios, which are critical in determining the ease of access to care.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Primary Care Availability**

Accurate physician-to-patient ratio data requires up-to-date information from multiple sources, including the US Census Bureau and the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA). However, general estimates suggest that rural areas like Leroy often face higher ratios compared to urban centers. This means fewer doctors are available to serve a larger population, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced opportunities for preventative care, which is crucial for breast cancer screening.

Primary care physicians (PCPs) are the gatekeepers to breast cancer screening and diagnosis. Their availability directly impacts the likelihood of early detection. The analysis attempts to ascertain the number of PCPs actively practicing within the ZIP code or in immediately adjacent areas. This includes family medicine doctors, internal medicine specialists, and general practitioners. The availability of these physicians, their patient load, and their willingness to accept new patients are all factors that influence the overall score.

**Standout Practices and Their Impact**

Identifying "standout practices" involves evaluating those medical facilities that demonstrate a commitment to breast cancer care. This assessment considers several factors, including the presence of certified mammography services, the availability of on-site breast ultrasound, and the ability to perform biopsies. Practices that actively participate in breast cancer screening programs and offer patient education initiatives are also given higher consideration.

These practices often serve as hubs for care, providing comprehensive services that streamline the patient journey. Their ability to offer these services locally minimizes the need for patients to travel long distances, a significant advantage in a rural setting. The analysis identifies any such practices and assesses their capacity to meet the needs of the community.

**Telemedicine Adoption: Bridging the Distance**

Telemedicine plays a crucial role in overcoming the geographical barriers to healthcare access in rural areas. The analysis evaluates the adoption of telemedicine services by local healthcare providers. This includes the availability of virtual consultations with PCPs, specialists, and mental health professionals. The ability to conduct follow-up appointments, discuss test results, and receive counseling remotely can significantly improve patient convenience and reduce the burden of travel.

Telemedicine adoption also extends to access to specialists who may not be available locally. The ability to consult with oncologists, radiologists, and surgeons via telemedicine can ensure patients receive timely and expert advice. The analysis assesses the availability of these services and their impact on the overall care experience.

**Mental Health Resources: A Critical Component**

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. The availability of mental health resources is therefore a critical component of comprehensive care. The analysis assesses the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, within the community or easily accessible from Leroy.

This includes evaluating the availability of individual therapy, support groups, and counseling services specifically tailored to the needs of breast cancer patients. The ability to access these resources locally or through telehealth is a significant factor in improving the patient experience and supporting their overall recovery.

**Specifics within the Scope**

The analysis attempts to identify specific practices and physicians within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas. Due to privacy concerns and the dynamic nature of healthcare information, this requires careful research and verification. The goal is to identify the specific names of practices, the services they offer, and the technologies they utilize. This includes identifying any practices that are part of larger healthcare networks or systems.

The analysis also attempts to identify any specific programs or initiatives aimed at improving breast cancer care in the community. This includes any community health programs, mobile mammography units, or outreach efforts. The goal is to provide a granular view of the healthcare landscape.

**Challenges and Limitations**

Gathering precise and up-to-date data in a rural setting presents challenges. Information on physician availability, practice capabilities, and telemedicine adoption can be difficult to obtain. Data privacy regulations also limit the level of detail that can be publicly disclosed. The analysis relies on publicly available data, healthcare directories, and information gathered from reliable sources.

**Overall Breast Cancer Score Assessment**

Based on the available information, the overall breast cancer score for Leroy, Alabama (ZIP code 36548) is likely to be impacted by the challenges of rural healthcare access. The physician-to-patient ratio may be higher, and the availability of specialized services may be limited. However, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources can mitigate these challenges. The specific score will depend on the degree to which these factors are present and the quality of the services offered.

**Call to Action: Explore with CartoChrome Maps**

For a more detailed and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Leroy, Alabama, and the surrounding areas, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a visual and dynamic way to analyze healthcare data, including physician locations, practice specializations, and access to services. Utilize CartoChrome maps to visualize the data and make informed decisions about your healthcare journey.