Health Scores Near 35070, Garden City, Alabama
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The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 35070, Garden City, Alabama is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 97.32 percent of the residents in 35070 has some form of health insurance. 71.43 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 47.32 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 35070 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 23 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 10 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35070. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 49 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,699 health care providers accessible to residents in 35070, Garden City, Alabama.
Health Scores in 35070, Garden City, Alabama
| Lung Cancer Score | 14 |
|---|---|
| People Score | 55 |
| Provider Score | 18 |
| Hospital Score | 40 |
| Travel Score | 19 |
| 35070 | Garden City | 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: Garden City, AL (ZIP Code 35070)
This analysis evaluates the healthcare landscape in Garden City, Alabama (ZIP code 35070), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer care. We'll assess primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in the fight against this disease. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare environment, acknowledging its strengths and identifying areas for potential improvement.
Garden City, a small town in Cullman County, likely faces challenges common to rural areas regarding healthcare access. These include potential shortages of primary care physicians, limited access to specialized services, and the impact of social determinants of health on patient outcomes. Understanding these factors is critical for developing effective strategies to improve lung cancer care within the community.
**Primary Care Availability and Physician-to-Patient Ratios**
A cornerstone of effective lung cancer care is readily accessible primary care. Early detection, risk assessment, and ongoing management all rely heavily on the relationship between a patient and their primary care physician (PCP). Assessing primary care availability in Garden City requires examining the number of PCPs practicing within the ZIP code and its surrounding areas, as well as the patient population served.
Data on physician-to-patient ratios is vital. A higher ratio (fewer physicians per capita) indicates a potential shortage, which can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventive screenings, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or state medical boards can provide insights into these ratios. The analysis would need to determine if Garden City is designated as a Health Professional Shortage Area (HPSA), which would further highlight the need for increased physician recruitment and retention efforts.
**Standout Practices and Specialized Care**
Identifying standout practices within or near Garden City is crucial. This involves looking beyond the raw numbers of physicians and considering the quality of care delivered. Factors to assess include the presence of board-certified pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons. Does Garden City have access to a comprehensive cancer center, or do patients need to travel to larger cities like Birmingham for specialized treatment?
The analysis would also consider the availability of advanced diagnostic tools like low-dose CT scans for lung cancer screening. Are these screenings readily accessible, or are patients required to travel significant distances? Furthermore, the existence of multidisciplinary teams, involving pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and nurses, is a critical indicator of quality lung cancer care. These teams facilitate coordinated care, ensuring patients receive the most appropriate treatment plan.
**Telemedicine Adoption: Bridging the Gap**
Telemedicine can be a game-changer, particularly in rural areas where access to specialists may be limited. The analysis would assess the extent of telemedicine adoption among primary care practices and specialist providers in and around Garden City. Are virtual consultations available for follow-up appointments, medication management, or even initial consultations?
Telemedicine can improve access to specialists, reduce travel burdens for patients, and potentially lead to earlier diagnoses and better outcomes. The assessment would also consider the availability of telehealth services for mental health support, which is particularly important for patients coping with a cancer diagnosis.
**Mental Health Resources: Addressing the Emotional Toll**
A lung cancer diagnosis carries a significant emotional burden. Patients often experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The analysis would evaluate the availability of mental health resources in Garden City and the surrounding area. Are there psychiatrists, psychologists, or licensed therapists readily accessible? Are mental health services integrated into the care provided by primary care practices and cancer specialists?
The presence of support groups, counseling services, and psychiatric care is vital for supporting patients' emotional well-being throughout their treatment journey. Access to these resources can significantly improve patients' quality of life and their ability to cope with the challenges of their illness.
**Specifics and Data Sources**
A comprehensive analysis would require specific data. This includes the names and locations of primary care practices, the specialties of physicians practicing within the area, and the availability of specialized equipment like CT scanners. Information on telemedicine adoption rates, the availability of mental health services, and the presence of support groups would also be essential.
Data sources to consult would include the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners, the American Medical Association, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), and local hospital websites. Additionally, patient reviews and online resources could provide insights into the quality of care provided by specific practices.
**Conclusion: A Call to Action**
The healthcare landscape in Garden City, Alabama, presents both opportunities and challenges in the fight against lung cancer. Addressing potential shortages of primary care physicians, ensuring access to specialized care, promoting telemedicine adoption, and integrating mental health services are all crucial steps toward improving patient outcomes. While the analysis provides a general overview, a deeper investigation with specific data will reveal a more accurate portrait of the healthcare environment.
To visualize this data and gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Garden City and surrounding areas, consider exploring the power of interactive mapping. **CartoChrome maps** can transform complex healthcare data into easily digestible visualizations, allowing you to identify patterns, understand disparities, and ultimately, improve access to care. Explore the power of CartoChrome maps today to gain a more insightful view of healthcare resources in your community.
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