36786, Uniontown, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 36786, Uniontown, Alabama is 7 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.43 percent of the residents in 36786 has some form of health insurance. 59.64 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 32.85 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 36786 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 582 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36786. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 273 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 80 health care providers accessible to residents in 36786, Uniontown, Alabama.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Uniontown, Alabama (ZIP Code 36786)**

Analyzing the breast cancer care landscape in Uniontown, Alabama (ZIP code 36786) requires a nuanced approach, considering both the availability of healthcare professionals and the broader support systems crucial for patient well-being. This analysis aims to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, focusing on key factors like physician access, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health resources. The ultimate goal is to offer a clear picture of the healthcare environment for individuals navigating breast cancer within this specific geographic area.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on access to qualified medical professionals. In Uniontown, the physician-to-patient ratio, particularly for primary care physicians (PCPs), is a critical indicator. A limited number of PCPs can create bottlenecks, delaying timely diagnosis and referrals. This, in turn, impacts the overall Breast Cancer Score. Data from reliable sources, such as the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and the Alabama Department of Public Health, must be consulted to determine the current physician-to-patient ratio within the ZIP code. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of PCPs, would negatively impact the score.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality and accessibility of primary care are essential. Are appointments readily available? Do practices accept a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, which are vital for many residents? The availability of same-day or next-day appointments, extended hours, and weekend clinics are all factors that improve access and therefore, the Breast Cancer Score.

Referral pathways to specialists, particularly oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists, are crucial. Does the local primary care network have established relationships with specialists in the region, facilitating smooth and efficient referrals? The proximity of these specialists is also a significant factor. If patients must travel long distances for specialized care, it can create significant burdens, both logistically and emotionally, lowering the Breast Cancer Score.

Within Uniontown, identifying "standout practices" requires looking beyond the basics. Are there any practices that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive breast cancer care? Do they offer services like breast cancer screenings (mammograms), follow-up care, and patient education? Do they participate in clinical trials or have affiliations with larger healthcare systems that provide advanced treatment options? Practices actively involved in community outreach and patient advocacy would also positively impact the Breast Cancer Score.

Telemedicine has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, especially in rural areas. Its adoption in Uniontown is a crucial aspect of the Breast Cancer Score assessment. Are local practices utilizing telemedicine for consultations, follow-up appointments, and patient education? Telemedicine can help overcome geographical barriers, improving access to specialists and providing convenient care options for patients, thereby increasing the score.

The emotional and psychological impact of a breast cancer diagnosis is profound. The availability of mental health resources is an essential component of comprehensive care. Are there mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, available in or near Uniontown? Do they specialize in oncology or have experience working with cancer patients? The existence of support groups, both in-person and virtual, is also highly beneficial. The presence of these resources significantly elevates the Breast Cancer Score.

The integration of these elements creates a holistic picture. A high Breast Cancer Score would indicate robust primary care access, efficient referral pathways, the presence of specialized services, telemedicine adoption, and readily available mental health support. Conversely, a low score would signal challenges in any or all of these areas, highlighting areas where improvements are needed.

Assessing the availability of resources is only the first step. The cost of care also plays a significant role. The Breast Cancer Score must account for the affordability of healthcare services. Are there financial assistance programs available to help patients cover the costs of treatment, medications, and other related expenses? The availability of these programs can significantly improve a patient's ability to access care.

The availability of transportation to and from medical appointments is another important consideration. If patients lack reliable transportation, it can create barriers to care. The availability of public transportation options, ride-sharing services, or volunteer transportation programs can positively impact the Breast Cancer Score.

In conclusion, a comprehensive Breast Cancer Score for Uniontown (36786) must encompass physician-to-patient ratios, the quality and accessibility of primary care, referral pathways, the presence of specialized services, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, the affordability of care, and the availability of transportation. A detailed analysis of these factors, using data from reliable sources, is essential to provide a meaningful assessment of the healthcare environment for individuals navigating breast cancer within this specific geographic area. The ultimate goal is to identify strengths and weaknesses, informing efforts to improve care and support for patients.

For a visual representation of this data, and to explore the healthcare landscape in Uniontown and surrounding areas, we encourage you to visit CartoChrome maps. Their interactive platform allows you to visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available.