36568, Saint Elmo, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 36568, Saint Elmo, Alabama is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 51.52 percent of the residents in 36568 has some form of health insurance. 17.17 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 51.52 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 36568 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 72 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36568. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 17 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 11,167 health care providers accessible to residents in 36568, Saint Elmo, Alabama.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Saint Elmo, Alabama (ZIP Code 36568)

Analyzing healthcare access and quality in Saint Elmo, Alabama (ZIP code 36568), requires a multifaceted approach, especially when focusing on a critical health concern like breast cancer. This analysis aims to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, considering factors crucial for early detection, effective treatment, and overall patient well-being. This includes evaluating primary care physician availability, the presence of specialized breast cancer care, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape and identify areas for improvement.

The foundation of any effective breast cancer care system rests on robust primary care. In Saint Elmo, the physician-to-patient ratio is a key indicator. A low ratio, signifying fewer doctors per capita, can lead to delayed appointments, reduced screening opportunities, and potentially, later-stage diagnoses. Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio requires access to publicly available data from sources like the US Census Bureau and the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners. This data, combined with information on the number of practicing primary care physicians within the ZIP code, allows for a more precise assessment. The availability of primary care physicians directly impacts the ability of women to receive regular checkups and screenings, crucial for early detection.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of primary care matters. Are physicians actively promoting mammograms and other recommended screenings? Do they have established referral pathways to specialists, including oncologists and surgeons? Assessing the quality of care requires looking at patient reviews, practice accreditations, and any publicly available performance data. This information can provide insights into the responsiveness of practices to patient needs and the overall standard of care.

Specialized breast cancer care is another critical element. While Saint Elmo might not have a dedicated cancer center, the proximity to larger medical facilities in nearby cities like Mobile becomes vital. The presence of oncologists, surgeons specializing in breast cancer, radiologists capable of performing and interpreting mammograms, and support staff are all essential. Evaluating the accessibility of these specialists, including travel time and appointment availability, significantly impacts the "Breast Cancer Score." The availability of multidisciplinary care, where various specialists collaborate on patient treatment plans, is highly desirable.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption in Saint Elmo can greatly improve access to specialists and support services. Telemedicine consultations can reduce travel burdens, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations with specialists located further away. Assessing the adoption of telemedicine requires identifying practices that offer virtual appointments, the types of services available through telemedicine, and the ease of use for patients. The availability of virtual support groups and educational resources through telemedicine can also enhance the overall patient experience.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked but crucial aspect of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can significantly impact a patient's emotional well-being. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in oncology-related issues is essential. Assessing this involves identifying practices that offer mental health services, the types of support available, and the integration of mental health care into the overall treatment plan. The presence of support groups and resources that address the psychological and emotional challenges associated with breast cancer is also a positive indicator.

Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code or in close proximity can further refine the "Breast Cancer Score." These practices may excel in various areas, such as patient communication, the use of technology, or the integration of mental health services. Analyzing patient reviews, practice websites, and any publicly available information can help identify these exemplary practices. Highlighting these practices can serve as a model for others and provide patients with valuable information when choosing a healthcare provider.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Saint Elmo, Alabama, would be determined by weighing the various factors discussed. A higher score would indicate better access to care, a greater availability of specialists, and a more integrated approach to patient well-being. Conversely, a lower score would highlight areas needing improvement, such as increasing the physician-to-patient ratio, expanding telemedicine adoption, and improving access to mental health resources. The score would be dynamic, reflecting changes in healthcare availability and quality over time.

The analysis also requires considering the socioeconomic factors of the community. Low-income populations and those with limited access to transportation may face additional barriers to care. Addressing these disparities is essential for ensuring equitable access to breast cancer screening and treatment. This may involve implementing outreach programs, providing transportation assistance, and offering financial aid to patients.

Analyzing the healthcare landscape in Saint Elmo requires a comprehensive approach, considering factors from physician-to-patient ratios to mental health resources. The "Breast Cancer Score" is a tool that can be used to assess the quality of care and identify areas for improvement. This score is not a static number but a reflection of the healthcare environment and the efforts made to improve access to care and patient outcomes.

To visualize this data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Saint Elmo and surrounding areas, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps available through CartoChrome. These maps can provide valuable insights into physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and other relevant data points, allowing you to assess the accessibility of care and identify areas where resources are most needed.