35987, Steele, Alabama Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 35987, Steele, Alabama is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.83 percent of the residents in 35987 has some form of health insurance. 29.76 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.93 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 35987 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 663 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35987. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 517 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 622 health care providers accessible to residents in 35987, Steele, Alabama.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Steele, Alabama (ZIP Code 35987)

The health landscape of Steele, Alabama, particularly concerning prostate cancer care, is a complex tapestry woven with threads of primary care availability, specialist access, technological adoption, and mental health support. Assessing this landscape requires a nuanced approach, moving beyond simple rankings to understand the realities faced by patients within ZIP Code 35987. This analysis attempts to provide a comprehensive 'Prostate Cancer Score' assessment, incorporating various critical factors.

The foundation of any successful prostate cancer journey rests on robust primary care. Steele, being a relatively small community, presents challenges in this area. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for men experiencing symptoms or seeking preventative screenings. Evaluating primary care availability involves assessing the physician-to-patient ratio within the area. A high ratio, meaning a smaller number of physicians serving a larger population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial diagnoses and treatment. Information regarding the exact physician-to-patient ratio in Steele is difficult to obtain publicly, but it is likely that this area is underserved.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This includes the PCPs' familiarity with prostate cancer screening guidelines, their willingness to order appropriate tests (such as PSA tests), and their ability to discuss potential risks and benefits of early detection. Further, the patient's ability to establish a trusting relationship with their PCP is crucial for open communication about sensitive health concerns. The overall quality of primary care within Steele needs to be evaluated by local patient reviews and data on the PCPs' adherence to screening guidelines.

Specialist access is another critical component. While primary care physicians play a vital role in initial screening and referral, urologists are the specialists who diagnose and treat prostate cancer. The proximity to urologists, the availability of appointments, and the range of treatment options offered are all essential factors. Patients in Steele may need to travel to larger cities like Gadsden or Birmingham to access specialized urological care. This travel time and associated costs can be a significant barrier to timely and effective treatment, negatively impacting the 'Prostate Cancer Score'. The availability of advanced treatment modalities, such as robotic surgery or radiation therapy, is also an important consideration.

The adoption of telemedicine has the potential to significantly improve access to care, especially in rural areas like Steele. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially shortening wait times. The extent to which local practices have embraced telemedicine for prostate cancer-related consultations, follow-up appointments, and patient education is a key indicator of the community's responsiveness to patient needs. A higher adoption rate would positively influence the 'Prostate Cancer Score'.

Mental health is often overlooked in the context of cancer care, but it plays a crucial role in the overall well-being of patients. A prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment can cause significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and fear. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is therefore an important factor in the 'Prostate Cancer Score'. The accessibility of these resources, whether in-person or through telehealth, and the degree to which they are integrated into the overall care plan, can significantly impact the patient's experience and quality of life.

Identifying standout practices within the area requires an in-depth investigation. This involves looking at patient reviews, physician ratings, and data on the practices' adherence to best practices in prostate cancer care. Practices that prioritize patient education, offer comprehensive screening programs, and have a strong track record of positive patient outcomes would be considered high-performing. Unfortunately, it is difficult to identify specific practices in this area without further research.

The 'Prostate Cancer Score' is not a static number but a dynamic assessment that evolves with changes in the healthcare landscape. Factors such as the availability of new treatments, advances in diagnostic technologies, and changes in insurance coverage can all influence the score. Regular monitoring and evaluation are necessary to ensure that patients in Steele have access to the best possible care.

To provide a more comprehensive analysis, it is necessary to gather data on the physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources within the area. Further research into the specific practices operating in Steele is also needed.

The 'Prostate Cancer Score' for Steele, Alabama, is likely negatively impacted by the limited availability of primary care physicians and specialists, and by the potential need for patients to travel to access advanced treatments. The adoption of telemedicine and the integration of mental health resources may be limited.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Steele, including the specific locations of medical facilities and the distribution of healthcare providers, consider using CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide valuable insights into the accessibility of care and help you navigate the complexities of the healthcare system.