35083, Holly Pond, Alabama Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 35083, Holly Pond, Alabama is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.70 percent of the residents in 35083 has some form of health insurance. 29.65 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.18 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 35083 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,176 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 10 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35083. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 677 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,840 health care providers accessible to residents in 35083, Holly Pond, Alabama.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Holly Pond, Alabama (ZIP Code 35083)**

Analyzing the healthcare landscape in Holly Pond, Alabama, necessitates a multifaceted approach, especially when considering a critical illness like lung cancer. A "Lung Cancer Score" for this specific area would involve evaluating several key factors, from the availability and quality of primary care to the accessibility of specialized oncology services. This analysis focuses on the critical components, aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare environment within ZIP Code 35083.

**Primary Care Availability and Physician-to-Patient Ratios**

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in robust primary care. Early detection and referral are crucial, making the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) a primary concern. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio in Holly Pond is essential. The national average provides a benchmark; a higher ratio indicates a potentially greater strain on existing PCPs, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and less time dedicated to each patient. Data from sources like the Alabama Department of Public Health and the US Census Bureau would be critical in determining the actual ratio within the ZIP code. Further, the age and experience of the PCPs, along with their training in preventative care, would also influence the overall score.

**Standout Practices and Their Impact**

Identifying standout practices within Holly Pond is crucial. This involves evaluating factors beyond simple physician-to-patient ratios. We must consider the practices' commitment to preventative care, including lung cancer screening programs. Do they actively promote and facilitate low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for eligible patients? Do they have established protocols for smoking cessation counseling and referrals? The presence of electronic health records (EHRs) that allow for efficient communication and coordination of care is another critical factor. Practices that demonstrate a proactive approach to patient health, particularly those with a history of early detection and effective management of chronic conditions, would score higher.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Role**

Telemedicine has revolutionized healthcare accessibility, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption within Holly Pond is a significant factor in the Lung Cancer Score. The availability of telehealth consultations with PCPs and, crucially, with oncologists and pulmonologists, can significantly improve access to specialized care. This is especially important for patients who may face geographical barriers to accessing specialists. The extent to which local practices offer telehealth services, the types of services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), and the ease of use of the technology are all relevant factors.

**Mental Health Resources and Their Significance**

A lung cancer diagnosis can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. The availability of mental health resources within Holly Pond is, therefore, a crucial component of the overall healthcare ecosystem. The presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, is essential. Furthermore, the availability of support groups, counseling services, and resources for managing anxiety and depression related to cancer treatment are vital. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care plans, or that have established referral pathways to mental health providers, would contribute positively to the score.

**Specific Considerations for Lung Cancer Care**

Beyond the general factors discussed above, specific considerations related to lung cancer care are essential. The availability of pulmonologists, who specialize in respiratory diseases, is paramount. The proximity to cancer treatment centers, including those offering radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical oncology, is another critical factor. The presence of support services, such as patient navigators who can help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, would also improve the score. The availability of palliative care services, which focus on managing symptoms and improving quality of life, is particularly important for patients with advanced lung cancer.

**Data Sources and Methodology**

Creating a reliable Lung Cancer Score requires access to comprehensive data. This includes information from the Alabama Department of Public Health, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), and private healthcare databases. The methodology for calculating the score would involve assigning weights to each factor based on its relative importance. For example, physician-to-patient ratios and the availability of lung cancer screening programs might be weighted more heavily than the availability of support groups. The final score would reflect the overall strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare environment in Holly Pond, Alabama, with respect to lung cancer care.

**Conclusion**

Evaluating the healthcare landscape in Holly Pond, Alabama, requires a nuanced approach. The Lung Cancer Score would provide a valuable assessment of the accessibility and quality of care for individuals at risk or diagnosed with this serious illness. This analysis highlights the importance of primary care, the role of standout practices, the impact of telemedicine, and the significance of mental health resources.

**Call to Action**

To visualize the healthcare landscape in Holly Pond, Alabama, and to gain a deeper understanding of the factors influencing the Lung Cancer Score, explore the power of spatial data visualization with CartoChrome maps. Utilize the interactive tools to explore physician locations, healthcare facility proximity, and demographic data within ZIP Code 35083. CartoChrome maps can provide a comprehensive, visual representation of the healthcare environment, empowering informed decision-making and improving access to care.