35587, Townley, Alabama Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 35587, Townley, Alabama is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 76.79 percent of the residents in 35587 has some form of health insurance. 37.34 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 64.12 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 35587 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 84 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35587. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 143 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 93 health care providers accessible to residents in 35587, Townley, Alabama.

**Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Townley, Alabama (ZIP Code 35587)**

Analyzing the healthcare landscape in Townley, Alabama (ZIP Code 35587) requires a multi-faceted approach, especially when considering prostate cancer care and primary care availability. This analysis will delve into various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, ultimately providing a "Prostate Cancer Score" assessment. This score, though not a numerical value, reflects the overall accessibility and quality of care within the specified geographic area, providing a relative ranking based on available data.

The foundation of any strong healthcare system rests on the availability of primary care physicians. In Townley, the physician-to-patient ratio for primary care is a critical indicator. While precise figures fluctuate and are often difficult to obtain at the ZIP code level, data from the Alabama Department of Public Health and the US Census Bureau can be used to estimate this ratio. A low physician-to-patient ratio, ideally, indicates better access to care. However, factors like physician specialization, patient demographics (age, health conditions), and insurance coverage significantly influence the actual accessibility of primary care services. A shortage of primary care physicians can lead to delayed diagnoses, increased emergency room visits, and poorer health outcomes, especially for conditions like prostate cancer, which often requires early and consistent management.

The presence of specialist physicians, particularly urologists, is crucial for prostate cancer care. While Townley might not have a dedicated urology practice within its immediate boundaries, the proximity of larger towns and cities like Jasper or Birmingham, which boast more specialized medical facilities, can be a mitigating factor. The ease of access to these specialist services, considering factors like travel time, transportation options, and appointment availability, is a key consideration. The ability of primary care physicians in Townley to effectively refer patients to urologists in surrounding areas is also crucial.

Identifying "standout practices" involves evaluating the quality of care provided by existing medical facilities. This assessment goes beyond simply counting the number of physicians. Factors such as patient reviews, accreditation status (e.g., accreditation by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care), the use of electronic health records (EHRs) for improved care coordination, and the adoption of evidence-based practices are all important considerations. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives and demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care are likely to provide a higher level of service.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly relevant, especially in rural areas like Townley. Telemedicine offers the potential to improve access to healthcare services by allowing patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel. The availability of telemedicine for primary care consultations, follow-up appointments, and even specialist consultations (e.g., urology) can significantly enhance the convenience and accessibility of care. The adoption rate of telemedicine technologies by local practices, as well as the availability of reliable internet access in the community, are crucial factors in determining the potential impact of telemedicine on prostate cancer care.

Mental health resources play an often-overlooked but vital role in prostate cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a significant impact on a patient's mental well-being. Access to mental health professionals, such as psychologists, psychiatrists, and counselors, is therefore essential. The availability of mental health services, either within primary care practices or through referrals to external providers, is an important indicator of the holistic approach to patient care. The presence of support groups or other resources for cancer patients and their families further enhances the overall quality of care.

Evaluating the availability of prostate cancer screening and treatment options is a core component of the assessment. The presence of facilities offering PSA (prostate-specific antigen) testing, digital rectal exams, and other screening methods is essential for early detection. The availability of treatment options, such as surgery, radiation therapy, and hormone therapy, will be considered. The proximity of these services and the ease of access to them are essential.

The “Prostate Cancer Score” for Townley, Alabama (ZIP Code 35587) is, therefore, a relative assessment, not a numerical grade. Based on the information available, and assuming a typical rural setting, the score likely reflects a situation where access to specialized prostate cancer care is somewhat limited within the immediate ZIP code. Primary care availability is likely the foundation of care, with the potential for telemedicine to enhance access. Mental health resources may be limited, and access to specialists and advanced treatments likely depends on travel to nearby cities. The score suggests a need for improvement in several areas, including increasing the number of primary care physicians, expanding telemedicine capabilities, and improving access to mental health services.

This analysis is based on publicly available information and does not constitute medical advice. It is intended for informational purposes only.

To visualize the healthcare landscape of Townley, Alabama, and surrounding areas, including physician locations, specialist availability, and access to healthcare facilities, explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful way to visualize and analyze geographic data, providing a comprehensive overview of the healthcare resources available in the area.