36756, Marion, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 36756, Marion, Alabama is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.07 percent of the residents in 36756 has some form of health insurance. 52.01 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.30 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 36756 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,414 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36756. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,175 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 54 health care providers accessible to residents in 36756, Marion, Alabama.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 36756 & Primary Care in Marion

Analyzing the healthcare landscape for breast cancer care within ZIP code 36756 and assessing primary care availability in Marion, Alabama, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis aims to create a "Breast Cancer Score" based on several critical factors, offering insights into the accessibility, quality, and support available to patients. We will consider physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Access to Care (ZIP Code 36756)**

The cornerstone of effective breast cancer care is timely access to qualified medical professionals. Evaluating physician-to-patient ratios within ZIP code 36756 is paramount. This involves determining the number of primary care physicians (PCPs), oncologists, radiologists, and surgeons specializing in breast cancer care actively practicing within the area. Data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), state medical boards, and professional organizations are crucial for this assessment. A low physician-to-patient ratio, particularly for specialists, indicates potential challenges in accessing timely diagnoses, consultations, and treatments. This can lead to delays in care, impacting patient outcomes. Geographic barriers, such as rurality and limited public transportation, can further exacerbate these challenges.

**Primary Care Availability in Marion**

The availability of primary care in Marion is a foundational element of the Breast Cancer Score. PCPs often serve as the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms. They are responsible for initial screenings, referrals to specialists, and coordinating overall care. Assessing the number of PCPs practicing in Marion, their patient load, and their ability to accept new patients is crucial. The presence of a robust primary care network improves the likelihood of early detection and intervention, significantly impacting survival rates. Furthermore, the availability of preventative care services, such as mammograms and breast exams, within the primary care setting is a positive indicator of a patient-centered approach.

**Identifying Standout Practices (ZIP Code 36756 & Marion)**

Identifying "standout practices" involves evaluating healthcare providers and facilities that demonstrate excellence in breast cancer care. This assessment considers several factors: the presence of board-certified specialists, the availability of advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies (e.g., 3D mammography, radiation therapy), and the utilization of evidence-based practices. Reviews from patients, accreditations from organizations like the American College of Surgeons, and participation in clinical trials also contribute to the evaluation. Practices that prioritize patient education, provide comprehensive support services, and demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement deserve recognition. This includes assessing the presence of multidisciplinary teams, including medical oncologists, surgical oncologists, radiation oncologists, pathologists, and specialized nurses.

**Telemedicine Adoption: A Bridge to Care (ZIP Code 36756 & Marion)**

Telemedicine offers a valuable solution for bridging geographical barriers and improving access to care, especially in rural areas. Assessing the adoption of telemedicine by healthcare providers in ZIP code 36756 and Marion is critical. This involves determining the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and online patient portals. Telemedicine can facilitate consultations with specialists, provide access to support groups, and deliver educational resources. Practices that have embraced telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and improved care delivery. The ability to conduct virtual follow-up appointments and discuss test results remotely can significantly reduce the burden on patients and improve overall care coordination.

**Mental Health Resources: An Integral Component (ZIP Code 36756 & Marion)**

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on patients' mental and emotional well-being. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial element of the Breast Cancer Score. This involves evaluating the presence of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in supporting cancer patients. Assessing whether practices offer access to support groups, individual therapy, and psychiatric services is essential. The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan demonstrates a holistic approach to patient well-being. Access to these resources can help patients cope with the emotional challenges of their diagnosis and treatment, improving their quality of life and potentially their treatment outcomes.

**Scoring Methodology**

The Breast Cancer Score will be a composite score, reflecting the weighted average of the factors discussed above. Each factor will be assigned a weight based on its relative importance. For example, physician-to-patient ratios might carry a higher weight than telemedicine adoption. Data from various sources will be used to quantify each factor, allowing for a standardized and objective assessment. The final score will be presented on a scale, allowing for a clear understanding of the healthcare landscape within the specified areas. This score will be a dynamic measure, reflecting changes in the healthcare environment over time.

**Conclusion**

The Breast Cancer Score provides a valuable framework for evaluating the quality and accessibility of breast cancer care in ZIP code 36756 and Marion. By considering physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and evaluating mental health resources, we gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape. This analysis can inform patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers, enabling them to make informed decisions and improve the quality of care. Understanding the local resources is critical for navigating the complexities of breast cancer treatment and support.

**Explore the Healthcare Landscape with CartoChrome Maps**

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape and a deeper dive into the data, explore the interactive maps available from CartoChrome. These maps provide a powerful tool for understanding physician locations, healthcare facility access, and other critical factors related to breast cancer care.