31544, Jacksonville, Georgia Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 31544, Jacksonville, Georgia is 13 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.63 percent of the residents in 31544 has some form of health insurance. 48.86 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 49.62 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 31544 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 156 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 31544. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 169 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 30 health care providers accessible to residents in 31544, Jacksonville, Georgia.

The following analysis assesses the quality of breast cancer care within ZIP code 31544 (likely referring to Brunswick, Georgia) and primary care accessibility in Jacksonville, Florida. It does not constitute medical advice, and all findings are based on publicly available data and general healthcare trends. The objective is to provide an overview of the landscape and highlight areas for potential improvement.

**Breast Cancer Score: 31544 (Brunswick, GA)**

Evaluating breast cancer care in a specific ZIP code requires considering several factors. Access to timely screening, diagnostic capabilities, treatment options, and supportive care all contribute to a comprehensive assessment. Data limitations often restrict granular analysis at the ZIP code level; therefore, this evaluation relies on broader regional information and general healthcare principles.

The first crucial element is screening. Early detection significantly improves breast cancer outcomes. The availability of mammography services is paramount. In 31544, the presence of imaging centers offering mammograms is essential. One would need to investigate the number of such facilities, their operating hours, and their ability to accommodate appointments promptly. Are there mobile mammography units that serve more rural areas within the ZIP code?

Next, consider diagnostic capabilities. If a mammogram reveals an abnormality, prompt follow-up is critical. This includes access to diagnostic mammograms, ultrasounds, and potentially biopsies. The presence of experienced radiologists and pathologists within the community or nearby is a positive indicator. Are there any breast cancer centers in the area?

Treatment options are a critical aspect of care. The availability of surgical oncologists, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists is essential. Are there hospitals within or near 31544 that offer these services? The proximity of these specialists impacts the patient's experience and the timeliness of treatment. Does the local hospital have a dedicated oncology unit?

Supportive care is another vital component. Breast cancer treatment can be physically and emotionally taxing. Access to support groups, oncology nurses, physical therapists, and mental health professionals is crucial. Are there any local organizations that provide these services?

The overall score for breast cancer care in 31544 would be influenced by the interplay of these factors. The presence of a well-equipped hospital with a dedicated oncology unit, access to screening and diagnostic facilities, and a network of specialists would contribute to a higher score. Conversely, limited access to screening, delays in diagnosis, and a lack of supportive care would negatively impact the score.

**Primary Care Availability: Jacksonville, FL**

Assessing primary care availability in Jacksonville requires a different approach. This involves considering the physician-to-patient ratio, the distribution of primary care practices, and the accessibility of care for diverse populations.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a key indicator. A lower ratio (more physicians per capita) generally suggests better access to care. Data from the Florida Department of Health or the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services can provide information on the number of primary care physicians in Jacksonville and the city's population.

The geographic distribution of primary care practices is also important. Are these practices concentrated in certain areas, leaving other neighborhoods underserved? Analyzing the location of clinics and comparing them to population density can reveal potential disparities in access. Are there any Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) or other clinics that specifically serve underserved populations?

The ability to get an appointment is a critical factor. How long do patients typically wait to see a primary care physician? Are same-day or next-day appointments available for urgent needs? Data on wait times can be challenging to obtain, but patient reviews and surveys can provide some insights.

The acceptance of insurance is another consideration. Do primary care practices accept a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance? Practices that accept a broader range of insurance plans improve access for more patients.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important. Does Jacksonville have a good adoption rate for telemedicine? Many primary care practices now offer telehealth visits, which can improve access for patients who live far from clinics or have mobility issues.

Mental health resources are often integrated into primary care. Are primary care practices in Jacksonville equipped to address mental health concerns? Do they have on-site mental health professionals, or do they have referral networks for mental health services? This integration is essential for comprehensive patient care.

The overall assessment of primary care availability in Jacksonville would be based on a combination of these factors. A high physician-to-patient ratio, a widespread distribution of practices, short wait times, acceptance of a wide range of insurance plans, and the availability of telemedicine and mental health resources would contribute to a positive assessment. Conversely, a low physician-to-patient ratio, geographic disparities in access, long wait times, and limited telemedicine adoption would negatively impact the score.

**Standout Practices and Considerations**

Identifying standout practices requires examining specific attributes. Practices that offer extended hours, provide bilingual services, or have a strong focus on preventive care are often considered exemplary. The presence of patient-centered medical homes, which emphasize coordinated care and patient engagement, is also a positive indicator.

Mental health integration is becoming increasingly important. Practices that prioritize mental health screening, provide on-site counseling, or have strong referral networks for mental health services are at the forefront of patient care.

**Conclusion**

Both the breast cancer care analysis for 31544 and the primary care assessment for Jacksonville demonstrate the complexity of evaluating healthcare access. While this analysis provides a general overview, a more detailed investigation would require accessing specific data sources and conducting a thorough review of local healthcare resources.

For a more in-depth understanding of healthcare access and resource distribution, consider using CartoChrome maps. These maps can visualize healthcare data, allowing you to identify areas with limited access to care and understand the geographic distribution of healthcare resources.