35404, Tuscaloosa, Alabama Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 35404, Tuscaloosa, Alabama is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.66 percent of the residents in 35404 has some form of health insurance. 41.60 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.78 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 35404 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,803 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35404. An estimate of 10 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,373 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,730 health care providers accessible to residents in 35404, Tuscaloosa, Alabama.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Tuscaloosa, AL (ZIP Code 35404)

This analysis evaluates the quality of prostate cancer care and primary care access within Tuscaloosa, Alabama, specifically focusing on ZIP code 35404. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Prostate Cancer Score" assessment, considering factors like physician availability, practice characteristics, and the integration of supportive services.

The foundation of effective prostate cancer care lies in accessible and knowledgeable primary care physicians (PCPs). In Tuscaloosa, 35404, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, can lead to delayed diagnoses and treatment. This analysis will investigate the estimated PCP-to-patient ratio within the specified ZIP code, comparing it to state and national averages. Data sources such as the US Census Bureau, the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners, and publicly available healthcare databases will be utilized to calculate and contextualize this ratio.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of available primary care practices significantly impacts the overall score. This analysis will examine the presence of practices that prioritize preventive care, including regular prostate cancer screenings (PSA tests, digital rectal exams). We will assess the availability of these screening services within the practices, including the ease of scheduling appointments and the integration of patient education materials. The presence of electronic health records (EHRs) and their interoperability are also vital. EHRs facilitate information sharing between PCPs and specialists, streamlining the referral process and ensuring continuity of care.

The presence of specialist care, particularly urologists, is crucial for prostate cancer treatment. The analysis will identify the number of urologists practicing within or serving the 35404 ZIP code. Proximity to specialized treatment centers, such as those offering radiation therapy, surgery, and chemotherapy, will be evaluated. The availability of these specialists and treatment options directly influences the prognosis and quality of life for patients. The analysis will also look at the integration of multidisciplinary care teams, where urologists, oncologists, and other specialists collaborate on patient treatment plans.

Telemedicine adoption is a growing trend in healthcare, and its impact on prostate cancer care is significant. Telemedicine can improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas or with mobility limitations. The analysis will investigate the extent of telemedicine adoption among PCPs and urologists in the 35404 ZIP code. This includes assessing the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring services, and online patient portals. Practices that embrace telemedicine can improve patient convenience and access to timely care.

Mental health support is often overlooked in cancer care, but it plays a crucial role in patient well-being. Prostate cancer can cause significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and fear. The analysis will assess the availability of mental health resources for prostate cancer patients in the Tuscaloosa area. This includes identifying mental health professionals who specialize in cancer care, support groups, and counseling services. The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan significantly improves the patient experience.

Standout practices within the 35404 ZIP code will be identified. These practices will be recognized for their commitment to comprehensive prostate cancer care, including excellent patient communication, proactive screening programs, and a patient-centered approach. Factors like patient satisfaction scores, as measured by publicly available surveys, will be considered. Practices that demonstrate a strong commitment to patient education and empowerment will also be highlighted.

The analysis will also consider the overall healthcare infrastructure in Tuscaloosa. This includes the presence of hospitals with advanced cancer treatment facilities, access to diagnostic imaging (MRI, CT scans), and the availability of clinical trials. The quality of the local healthcare system directly influences the quality of prostate cancer care.

Primary care availability in Tuscaloosa, specifically within the 35404 ZIP code, presents a complex picture. While the presence of the University of Alabama and its associated medical resources suggests a potentially robust healthcare environment, challenges may exist in terms of access, particularly for underserved populations. The analysis will evaluate the availability of primary care clinics, including their locations, hours of operation, and acceptance of various insurance plans. The presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) and their impact on access to care will be considered.

The final "Prostate Cancer Score" will be a composite rating based on the factors discussed above. It will provide a comprehensive overview of the quality of prostate cancer care and primary care access in the 35404 ZIP code. The score will be presented in a clear and concise format, allowing patients and healthcare providers to easily understand the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system.

This analysis is intended to be a starting point for a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Tuscaloosa. It is essential to consult with healthcare professionals for personalized medical advice and treatment recommendations. The data used in this analysis is based on publicly available information and is subject to change.

For a visual representation of this data, including practice locations, physician density, and proximity to treatment centers, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome’s maps provide a dynamic and insightful view of the healthcare landscape, allowing you to explore the data in a user-friendly format.