36801, Opelika, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 36801, Opelika, Alabama is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.76 percent of the residents in 36801 has some form of health insurance. 39.54 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.41 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 36801 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,128 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 10 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36801. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,422 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,644 health care providers accessible to residents in 36801, Opelika, Alabama.

Breast cancer is a significant health concern, and access to quality care is paramount. This analysis examines the landscape of breast cancer-related care within the Opelika, Alabama ZIP code 36801, focusing on primary care availability and the performance of local physicians. We will assess various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, to provide a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare ecosystem.

Opelika, like many communities, faces challenges in healthcare access. The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial indicator of healthcare accessibility. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced access to preventative screenings and early detection services. Data from various sources, including the Alabama Department of Public Health and the U.S. Census Bureau, must be consulted to determine the precise physician-to-patient ratio within the 36801 ZIP code. This ratio should be compared to state and national averages to gauge the relative availability of primary care physicians.

The availability of primary care physicians is the cornerstone of breast cancer care. Primary care physicians often serve as the first point of contact for patients, providing preventative screenings, such as mammograms, and referring patients to specialists when necessary. The density of primary care practices within the 36801 ZIP code, including the number of practices and the number of physicians within each practice, directly impacts access to care. Furthermore, the acceptance of new patients and the availability of same-day or next-day appointments are critical factors in assessing primary care accessibility.

Identifying standout practices within Opelika requires evaluating several criteria. These include the physicians' qualifications, experience, and board certifications. Practices with a demonstrated commitment to breast cancer screening and early detection, such as regular mammogram referrals and patient education programs, are highly valued. Patient reviews and testimonials, available through online platforms, provide valuable insights into the patient experience, including the quality of communication, the responsiveness of staff, and the overall level of care. Practices that actively participate in clinical trials or research related to breast cancer treatment and prevention demonstrate a commitment to advancing medical knowledge and providing cutting-edge care.

Telemedicine has emerged as a vital tool for expanding healthcare access, particularly in rural or underserved areas. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in the 36801 ZIP code can significantly impact breast cancer care. Telemedicine allows for virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring, reducing the need for in-person visits and potentially improving access for patients with mobility issues or transportation challenges. The availability of telehealth services for breast cancer-related concerns, such as consultations with specialists or support groups, is an important consideration. The ease of use of the telemedicine platforms, the availability of technical support, and the integration of telemedicine into the overall care plan are key factors in its effectiveness.

The emotional and psychological impact of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment is substantial. Access to mental health resources is an essential component of comprehensive breast cancer care. Practices that offer or refer patients to mental health services, such as therapists, counselors, or support groups, demonstrate a commitment to addressing the holistic needs of their patients. The availability of these resources within the 36801 ZIP code, including the number of mental health professionals and the types of services offered, should be assessed. The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan, such as screening for mental health issues and providing referrals when needed, is a sign of a well-rounded approach to patient care.

The landscape of breast cancer care in Opelika, Alabama, is shaped by the interplay of various factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of primary care physicians, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources all contribute to the overall quality of care. A comprehensive analysis of these factors provides valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem. Regular assessments and ongoing improvements are essential to ensure that residents of the 36801 ZIP code have access to the best possible breast cancer care.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Opelika and visualize the spatial distribution of healthcare resources, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, primary care practice locations, and the availability of mental health resources within the 36801 ZIP code. By using CartoChrome, you can identify areas with limited access to care and gain a more complete picture of the healthcare ecosystem.