The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 35064, Fairfield, Alabama is 91 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 86.84 percent of the residents in 35064 has some form of health insurance. 39.20 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.90 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 35064 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 2,482 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35064. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,439 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,748 health care providers accessible to residents in 35064, Fairfield, Alabama.
Health Scores in 35064, Fairfield, Alabama
Lung Cancer Score | 45 |
---|---|
People Score | 10 |
Provider Score | 91 |
Hospital Score | 30 |
Travel Score | 54 |
35064 | Fairfield | 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: Fairfield, AL (ZIP Code 35064)
Analyzing the availability of quality healthcare, particularly concerning lung cancer detection and treatment, within a specific geographic area requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis focuses on Fairfield, Alabama (ZIP Code 35064), assessing the landscape of primary care, physician resources, and ancillary services relevant to lung cancer diagnosis and patient support. The goal is to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" perspective, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement.
Fairfield, Alabama, presents a unique healthcare environment. The presence of major medical centers in the broader Birmingham metropolitan area offers access to advanced specialized care. However, the specific availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) and resources directly within Fairfield is crucial for early detection and management of lung cancer.
One critical factor is the physician-to-patient ratio. An insufficient number of PCPs can lead to delayed diagnoses and reduced access to preventative screenings, including those for lung cancer. Data regarding this ratio within ZIP Code 35064, and even within the surrounding Jefferson County, is essential. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) or state health departments can provide insights into the PCP-to-population ratio. A low ratio indicates a potential shortage, impacting the ability of residents to secure timely appointments and preventative care.
Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care practices is vital. Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors. These include the adoption of evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening (e.g., low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals), the use of electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient data management and care coordination, and the availability of on-site diagnostic services or strong referral networks to specialists. Practices that actively promote smoking cessation programs and provide patient education about lung cancer risk factors are also highly valued.
Telemedicine adoption is another key consideration. The ability to access virtual consultations with PCPs, pulmonologists, and other specialists can significantly improve healthcare access, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or those living in underserved areas. Telemedicine can facilitate early detection through virtual consultations and follow-up care, potentially improving outcomes for lung cancer patients. The presence of telemedicine capabilities within Fairfield's primary care practices is a critical indicator of a practice's responsiveness to patient needs.
Mental health resources are often overlooked but play a crucial role in lung cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally and psychologically challenging. Patients may experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. The availability of mental health services, such as counseling and support groups, within the Fairfield community or through accessible referral networks is essential. Practices that integrate mental health screening into their routine care or have established partnerships with mental health providers are better positioned to support their patients' overall well-being.
The "Lung Cancer Score" for Fairfield, AL, would ideally incorporate these factors. A high score would reflect a robust primary care infrastructure with a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, standout practices that prioritize preventative care and early detection, extensive telemedicine capabilities, and readily available mental health resources. Conversely, a low score would suggest challenges in accessing timely and comprehensive lung cancer care.
Specific data points are needed to accurately assess the situation. For example, the number of PCPs per 1,000 residents in 35064, the percentage of practices offering lung cancer screening, the availability of smoking cessation programs, the prevalence of telemedicine adoption, and the number of mental health providers serving the community.
Furthermore, the presence of specialized lung cancer care within the broader Birmingham area is crucial. The proximity of pulmonologists, oncologists, radiation oncologists, and surgical specialists is essential for patients requiring advanced treatment. The availability of support services, such as patient navigators and support groups, at these specialized centers also impacts the overall quality of care.
The "Lung Cancer Score" should also consider factors beyond the immediate medical landscape. Socioeconomic factors, such as poverty rates and access to transportation, can significantly impact healthcare access and outcomes. Addressing these social determinants of health is critical to ensuring equitable care for all residents of Fairfield.
In the absence of specific data, it is difficult to provide a precise "Lung Cancer Score." However, the framework outlined above highlights the key elements that contribute to a strong healthcare environment for lung cancer patients. A comprehensive analysis would require a detailed investigation of the factors discussed, including physician availability, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and socioeconomic considerations.
Improving the "Lung Cancer Score" for Fairfield requires collaborative efforts. This includes attracting and retaining qualified PCPs, supporting practices that prioritize preventative care, promoting telemedicine adoption, increasing access to mental health services, and addressing social determinants of health.
To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Fairfield, AL, and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and other relevant data, consider exploring the power of location intelligence.
Reviews
No reviews yet.
You may also like