36617, Mobile, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 36617, Mobile, Alabama is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.41 percent of the residents in 36617 has some form of health insurance. 47.70 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.58 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 36617 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,147 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 69 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36617. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,881 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 11,144 health care providers accessible to residents in 36617, Mobile, Alabama.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 36617 & Primary Care in Mobile

This analysis delves into the landscape of breast cancer care within ZIP code 36617 in Mobile, Alabama, and the broader context of primary care availability in the city. We will assess the quality of care, focusing on factors crucial for early detection, treatment, and overall patient well-being. This includes examining physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, evaluating telemedicine adoption, and assessing the availability of mental health resources, all critical components of a comprehensive breast cancer care system.

ZIP code 36617, like many areas, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities. Understanding the specific healthcare environment within this area is crucial for residents seeking optimal breast cancer care. The availability of qualified medical professionals, access to advanced diagnostic tools, and the presence of supportive services all play a significant role in patient outcomes.

One of the most fundamental aspects of healthcare access is the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of doctors, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and potentially compromised treatment plans. Assessing the number of primary care physicians, oncologists, radiologists, and surgeons specializing in breast cancer within 36617 is paramount. Publicly available data from sources like the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services and the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners can provide valuable insights into these ratios. The presence of specialists is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment. A high concentration of specialists, particularly those with expertise in breast cancer, is a positive indicator of a robust healthcare infrastructure.

Identifying standout practices within 36617 requires a multifaceted approach. Patient reviews, peer recommendations, and the accreditation status of medical facilities are all important considerations. Hospitals and clinics that are accredited by organizations like the American College of Surgeons (ACS) Commission on Cancer often demonstrate a commitment to high-quality care and adherence to established standards. Furthermore, evaluating the types of services offered is essential. Does the practice offer comprehensive breast cancer screening, including mammograms, ultrasounds, and potentially MRI? Do they have on-site diagnostic capabilities, or do patients need to be referred elsewhere? The availability of these services within the same practice streamlines the patient experience and can lead to earlier detection and intervention.

Telemedicine has rapidly transformed healthcare, offering a convenient and accessible alternative to traditional in-person appointments. Its adoption, particularly in areas like 36617, can significantly impact breast cancer care. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations with specialists, remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment, and access to educational resources. Assessing the extent to which practices in the area have embraced telemedicine, including the types of services offered virtually and the platforms used, is crucial. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their workflow are likely to provide more accessible and patient-centered care.

Beyond the purely medical aspects of breast cancer care, the availability of mental health resources is essential. A diagnosis of breast cancer can be emotionally and psychologically challenging. Access to therapists, support groups, and other mental health services is critical for patient well-being. Evaluating the presence of mental health professionals specializing in oncology within 36617 is important. Does the practice offer on-site counseling services, or do they have established referral networks with mental health providers? The availability of these resources can significantly impact a patient's ability to cope with the diagnosis and treatment.

Primary care availability in Mobile, as a whole, directly impacts the quality of breast cancer care. Primary care physicians often serve as the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms or seeking preventative screenings. A shortage of primary care physicians can lead to delayed referrals to specialists, potentially hindering early detection. Examining the overall physician-to-patient ratio in Mobile, as well as the distribution of primary care practices across different areas of the city, is essential. Areas with limited primary care access may require additional resources to ensure that all residents have access to timely and appropriate breast cancer care.

The overall breast cancer care score for 36617, and by extension, Mobile, is a composite of these factors. A high score indicates a robust healthcare infrastructure with a sufficient number of specialists, access to advanced diagnostic tools, widespread telemedicine adoption, and readily available mental health resources. A lower score suggests areas for improvement, such as increasing the number of specialists, expanding telemedicine capabilities, and strengthening mental health support. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are crucial for identifying areas for improvement and ensuring that all residents have access to the best possible care.

In conclusion, assessing the landscape of breast cancer care in 36617 and Mobile requires a comprehensive understanding of the factors discussed. The availability of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, and the presence of mental health resources are all critical components of a high-quality care system.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Mobile and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a spatial representation of healthcare providers, allowing you to identify areas with high and low concentrations of specialists, primary care physicians, and other essential resources. This visual approach can help you make informed decisions about your healthcare and advocate for improved access to care in your community.