36579, Stockton, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 36579, Stockton, Alabama is 12 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.37 percent of the residents in 36579 has some form of health insurance. 48.56 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.81 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 36579 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 204 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36579. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 263 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 135 health care providers accessible to residents in 36579, Stockton, Alabama.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Stockton, AL (ZIP Code 36579)

Analyzing the availability and quality of breast cancer care within Stockton, Alabama (ZIP code 36579) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will assess the current landscape, focusing on primary care physician availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. This holistic view aims to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" reflecting the community's readiness to address the needs of patients facing this disease.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care begins with accessible primary care. In Stockton, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) serves as a critical access point for early detection and referral. A low PCP density, meaning a smaller number of physicians serving a larger population, can significantly hinder timely screenings and diagnoses. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is paramount. A ratio exceeding the national average (typically around 1:1,300) suggests potential challenges in securing appointments and receiving prompt medical attention. Researching the specific number of PCPs practicing within the ZIP code, alongside the total population, will provide the initial data point for this critical metric.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care is essential. Are the existing PCPs actively promoting breast cancer screenings, such as mammograms? Do they have established referral pathways to specialists, including radiologists and oncologists? Information on the types of services offered by local practices, including preventative care protocols, is crucial. The presence of electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate information sharing between PCPs and specialists can streamline the diagnostic and treatment process, improving patient outcomes.

Identifying "standout practices" requires a deeper dive. This involves evaluating the practices' commitment to breast cancer care. Do any practices in Stockton have dedicated programs focused on women's health or breast cancer specifically? Do they participate in national quality initiatives or accreditations related to breast cancer care? Examining patient reviews and testimonials can offer insights into the patient experience, including the ease of scheduling appointments, the responsiveness of staff, and the overall quality of care. The presence of multidisciplinary teams, bringing together PCPs, radiologists, surgeons, and oncologists, is a strong indicator of a practice committed to comprehensive care.

Telemedicine offers a potential solution to some of the challenges in rural healthcare settings. Its adoption can increase access to specialists and support services. Assessing the degree to which telemedicine is utilized within Stockton is essential. Are local practices offering virtual consultations for follow-up appointments or consultations with specialists? Are they providing remote monitoring services for patients undergoing treatment? The availability of telemedicine can significantly improve the convenience and accessibility of care, particularly for those facing mobility limitations or transportation challenges.

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on mental health. The integration of mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive care. Are local practices connected with mental health professionals, such as therapists or counselors, who specialize in supporting cancer patients? Do they offer on-site counseling services or provide referrals to external mental health providers? The availability of support groups, both in-person and virtual, can provide valuable emotional support and coping strategies. A high "Breast Cancer Score" will consider the existence of these mental health resources.

To create a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" for Stockton, we must synthesize the information gathered. A higher score would reflect: a favorable physician-to-patient ratio; PCPs actively promoting screenings and referrals; the presence of standout practices with dedicated programs; widespread telemedicine adoption; and robust integration of mental health resources. Conversely, a lower score would indicate challenges in accessing care, highlighting areas where improvements are needed.

This analysis provides a framework for understanding the current state of breast cancer care in Stockton. However, the dynamic nature of healthcare requires ongoing monitoring and evaluation. Changes in physician availability, the adoption of new technologies, and the evolving needs of patients necessitate regular assessments.

The data used to inform this analysis is readily available through public sources, including the U.S. Census Bureau, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), and various healthcare directories. However, organizing and visualizing this data effectively can be a time-consuming process.

To gain a clear, visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Stockton, including the distribution of physicians, the location of healthcare facilities, and the availability of resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful platform for visualizing geographic data, enabling users to identify patterns, trends, and disparities in healthcare access. By using CartoChrome maps, you can transform raw data into actionable insights, supporting informed decision-making and promoting better healthcare outcomes for the community.