36580, Summerdale, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 36580, Summerdale, Alabama is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.86 percent of the residents in 36580 has some form of health insurance. 45.09 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 54.27 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 36580 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,583 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36580. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,254 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,050 health care providers accessible to residents in 36580, Summerdale, Alabama.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Summerdale, Alabama (ZIP Code 36580)**

This analysis delves into the landscape of breast cancer care within Summerdale, Alabama (ZIP code 36580), focusing on the availability and quality of services, specifically for primary care physicians. We aim to assess the overall "Breast Cancer Score" by examining factors crucial to early detection, diagnosis, and support for patients. This includes evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, exploring telemedicine adoption, and assessing the availability of mental health resources.

The cornerstone of effective breast cancer care lies in accessible and proactive primary care. Early detection through regular screenings and prompt referrals significantly improves patient outcomes. Therefore, the physician-to-patient ratio becomes a critical metric. In Summerdale, the precise ratio fluctuates due to factors like physician mobility and population shifts. However, publicly available data from sources like the US Department of Health & Human Services and the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners can provide estimates. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally translates to better access to care. The analysis will consider the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) accepting new patients, especially women, and their willingness to prioritize breast cancer screening protocols.

Standout practices within Summerdale will be identified based on several criteria. These include the adoption of evidence-based breast cancer screening guidelines, such as those recommended by the American Cancer Society and the US Preventive Services Task Force. Practices that actively educate patients about breast cancer risk factors, promote self-exams, and offer convenient scheduling for mammograms will be highly regarded. Furthermore, the integration of electronic health records (EHRs) to facilitate efficient communication and coordination of care between PCPs, radiologists, and specialists is a key indicator of a well-functioning practice. The analysis will look for practices demonstrating a commitment to patient education and shared decision-making.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in expanding access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas like Summerdale. Its adoption by primary care practices is crucial for several reasons. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, allowing patients to discuss concerns, receive preliminary assessments, and follow up on results without the need for extensive travel. This is particularly important for patients who may face transportation challenges or have limited mobility. The analysis will assess the extent to which Summerdale PCPs offer telemedicine services, including the types of services offered (e.g., virtual check-ups, prescription refills) and the ease of access (e.g., availability of online scheduling, user-friendly platforms).

The emotional and psychological impact of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can be profound. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a vital component of comprehensive breast cancer care. The analysis will investigate the presence of mental health professionals (e.g., therapists, counselors, psychiatrists) in Summerdale and their accessibility to patients. This includes assessing whether PCPs routinely screen patients for mental health concerns, offer referrals to mental health specialists, and collaborate with mental health providers to provide integrated care. The availability of support groups, both in-person and virtual, for breast cancer survivors and their families will also be considered.

Evaluating the availability of specialized breast cancer services within Summerdale, or in nearby communities, is also important. While primary care physicians are the first point of contact, access to specialists like oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists is essential for diagnosis and treatment. The analysis will consider the proximity of specialized cancer centers, the ease of referral processes, and the availability of support services, such as patient navigators, who can help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Summerdale will be a composite assessment, reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare ecosystem. It will consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the accessibility of specialized cancer services. The score will be a qualitative evaluation, providing insights into the overall level of care available to women in Summerdale.

The analysis will also consider the impact of socioeconomic factors on breast cancer care. Disparities in access to care, screening rates, and treatment outcomes can be linked to factors like income, education, and insurance coverage. The analysis will attempt to identify any disparities and assess the efforts being made to address them. This may include evaluating the availability of free or low-cost screening programs, the acceptance of various insurance plans, and the provision of culturally sensitive care.

Data collection for this analysis will involve a combination of publicly available resources, such as government databases and healthcare directories. It will also involve reviewing practice websites, conducting phone calls to confirm information, and potentially surveying patients to gather feedback on their experiences. The goal is to provide a comprehensive and nuanced assessment of breast cancer care in Summerdale.

The final "Breast Cancer Score" will be a valuable resource for women in Summerdale, empowering them to make informed decisions about their healthcare. It will also be a useful tool for healthcare providers, highlighting areas where improvements can be made to enhance the quality and accessibility of breast cancer care.

To visualize and further understand the healthcare landscape of Summerdale, Alabama, and to explore the distribution of physicians, healthcare facilities, and other relevant data, we recommend utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a detailed, interactive view of the healthcare resources available in the area, allowing you to see the proximity of services, analyze demographic data, and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare ecosystem. Explore the possibilities with CartoChrome maps today.