36549, Lillian, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 36549, Lillian, Alabama is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 81.07 percent of the residents in 36549 has some form of health insurance. 55.20 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.29 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 36549 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 874 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36549. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,196 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,655 health care providers accessible to residents in 36549, Lillian, Alabama.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Lillian, Alabama (ZIP Code 36549)

Analyzing the healthcare landscape in Lillian, Alabama (ZIP code 36549) requires a multifaceted approach, especially when assessing resources for breast cancer detection, treatment, and support. This analysis will evaluate the availability of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the presence of mental health resources, ultimately aiming to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" reflecting the overall preparedness of the community. This score, while not a definitive metric, will provide a relative understanding of the strengths and weaknesses within the local healthcare system.

The foundation of any robust breast cancer care pathway lies in accessible primary care. In Lillian, the availability of primary care physicians is crucial. A limited number of primary care providers would necessitate longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and early detection. Assessing the number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the ZIP code, or within a reasonable commuting distance, is the first step. This number must then be contextualized by the population of Lillian to calculate the physician-to-patient ratio. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, raises concerns about access.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care practices is paramount. Standout practices are those that demonstrate a commitment to preventative care, including regular breast cancer screenings. This includes offering mammograms on-site or having established referral pathways to local imaging centers. Furthermore, practices that actively educate patients about breast cancer risk factors, self-exams, and the importance of early detection deserve recognition. The presence of certified nurse practitioners (CNPs) and physician assistants (PAs) can also improve access to care, particularly in areas with physician shortages. Their ability to provide routine checkups and screenings contributes significantly to the overall efficiency of the system.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, especially for follow-up appointments or initial consultations to discuss concerns, can significantly improve access to care, particularly for those with mobility issues or transportation challenges. Practices that embrace telemedicine can offer greater convenience and potentially reduce the burden on patients. Evaluating the availability of telehealth services, the types of services offered (e.g., general consultations, medication management, specialist referrals), and the ease of use of the platforms are all important considerations.

Mental health resources are often overlooked, but they are a crucial component of comprehensive breast cancer care. A breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can be incredibly stressful, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within the community or accessible through referrals, is essential. Furthermore, support groups, both in-person and online, can provide invaluable emotional support and a sense of community for patients and their families. The integration of mental health services into the overall cancer care pathway is a strong indicator of a supportive healthcare environment.

To arrive at a "Breast Cancer Score," we must consider the interplay of these factors. A high score would indicate a community with a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, readily available primary care physicians offering comprehensive preventative services, widespread telemedicine adoption, and robust mental health support. Conversely, a low score would reflect a community with limited access to care, fewer preventative resources, and a lack of mental health support. The score is not simply a sum of individual elements; it reflects the interconnectedness of the healthcare system.

Specifics regarding individual practices are difficult to ascertain without direct access to patient data and practice-specific information. However, a general assessment can be made by researching the websites of local practices, reviewing patient testimonials, and consulting with local healthcare advocacy groups. Information regarding the availability of mammography services, the use of electronic health records (which can facilitate care coordination), and the presence of patient navigators (who assist patients through the complex healthcare system) can be gleaned from these sources.

The analysis should also include an assessment of the local hospital system. Does the nearest hospital offer comprehensive cancer care, including surgical oncology, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy? Are there partnerships with specialized cancer centers in nearby cities? The presence of these resources significantly impacts the overall quality of care available to patients.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not a static number. It is a snapshot in time that reflects the current state of healthcare resources. It is important to note that this analysis is based on publicly available information and may not capture the full complexity of the healthcare landscape. Regular updates and ongoing monitoring are necessary to track changes and identify areas for improvement.

Ultimately, the goal of this analysis is to empower residents of Lillian, Alabama, with information about the healthcare resources available to them. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare and advocate for improvements in their community. The availability of breast cancer resources is a key indicator of the overall health and well-being of a community.

For a comprehensive, interactive map of healthcare providers in Lillian, Alabama (ZIP code 36549), including detailed information on services offered, physician availability, and practice locations, we encourage you to explore the CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a dynamic and user-friendly platform for visualizing healthcare data, allowing you to make informed decisions about your health and well-being.