The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 35013, Allgood, Alabama is 8 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 18.18 percent of the residents in 35013 has some form of health insurance. 0.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 18.18 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 35013 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35013. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 0 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 97 health care providers accessible to residents in 35013, Allgood, Alabama.
Health Scores in 35013, Allgood, Alabama
Lung Cancer Score | 18 |
---|---|
People Score | 83 |
Provider Score | 8 |
Hospital Score | 41 |
Travel Score | 9 |
35013 | Allgood | Alabama | |
---|---|---|---|
Providers per 10,000 residents | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Pediatricians per 10,000 residents under 18 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Geriatricians per 10,000 residents over 65 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Allgood, Alabama (ZIP Code 35013)**
This analysis assesses the landscape of healthcare resources in Allgood, Alabama (ZIP Code 35013), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer care, specifically the availability and quality of primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview to help residents navigate their healthcare options.
Allgood, a small community, faces unique challenges in healthcare access compared to larger urban areas. The availability of specialized care, including oncology, is likely limited within the immediate vicinity. This necessitates a focus on primary care as the crucial gateway to early detection, diagnosis, and referral for lung cancer.
**Primary Care Availability and Physician-to-Patient Ratios**
The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on strong primary care. Early detection through regular screenings, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for eligible individuals, significantly improves survival rates. Therefore, the density and accessibility of primary care physicians (PCPs) are paramount.
In Allgood, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Publicly available data, such as that from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), should be consulted to determine the precise ratio for ZIP Code 35013. This data will indicate whether the area is considered a Health Professional Shortage Area (HPSA).
The geographic distribution of PCPs within the ZIP code is also important. Are practices concentrated in a single area, or are they spread out to serve the community more equitably? This impacts travel time and convenience for patients.
**Standout Practices**
Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors. The practices’ commitment to preventative care, including smoking cessation programs, is crucial. Practices that actively promote and facilitate LDCT screenings for eligible patients demonstrate a proactive approach to lung cancer detection.
The quality of patient care is another key consideration. This includes the practice’s responsiveness to patient needs, the clarity of communication, and the overall patient experience. Patient reviews and testimonials, available through online platforms, can provide valuable insights into these aspects.
The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) is a significant indicator of a practice’s commitment to modern healthcare. EHRs facilitate efficient information sharing between providers, improving coordination of care, and potentially reducing medical errors.
**Telemedicine Adoption**
Telemedicine offers a valuable solution to the challenges of healthcare access in rural areas. It enables patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and expanding access to specialists.
The availability of telemedicine services within Allgood is an important factor. Does the primary care practice offer telehealth appointments? Are there opportunities for virtual consultations with specialists, such as pulmonologists or oncologists, who may not be readily available locally?
The quality of the telemedicine platform is also important. Is it user-friendly and reliable? Does it provide secure and confidential communication? The ability to access remote monitoring tools, such as those that track vital signs, can further enhance the effectiveness of telemedicine.
**Mental Health Resources**
A lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's mental health. Anxiety, depression, and other emotional challenges are common. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive lung cancer care.
The presence of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within Allgood or nearby communities is essential. Are there local support groups for cancer patients and their families? Does the primary care practice offer mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health providers?
The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan is vital. This includes screening for mental health issues, providing counseling and therapy, and offering access to medication when needed.
**Overall Assessment**
The overall Lung Cancer Score for Allgood, Alabama, will depend on the combined assessment of these factors. A high score would indicate a strong primary care base, good physician-to-patient ratios, proactive screening practices, the availability of telemedicine, and robust mental health support. A lower score would suggest areas for improvement.
This analysis should be considered a starting point. Residents are encouraged to conduct their own research, consult with their primary care physicians, and seek information from reliable sources, such as the American Cancer Society and the National Cancer Institute.
**Call to Action**
To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Allgood, Alabama, and to visualize the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that can help you identify the location of primary care practices, specialists, hospitals, and other relevant resources. Explore the map to understand the access to care in your community and make informed decisions about your healthcare.
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