35114, Maylene, Alabama Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 35114, Maylene, Alabama is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.08 percent of the residents in 35114 has some form of health insurance. 19.80 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 84.71 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 35114 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,323 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35114. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 885 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,306 health care providers accessible to residents in 35114, Maylene, Alabama.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Maylene, Alabama (ZIP Code 35114)

This analysis delves into the landscape of healthcare accessibility and resources within the Maylene, Alabama (ZIP Code 35114) area, focusing on factors pertinent to lung cancer detection, treatment, and overall patient well-being. The primary goal is to assess the availability of primary care physicians, the adoption of modern healthcare practices, and the support systems available to patients, ultimately culminating in a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment. This score is not a single number but rather a composite evaluation based on the following considerations.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on early detection. This necessitates a robust primary care infrastructure capable of providing preventative screenings, such as low-dose CT scans for at-risk individuals. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced opportunities for regular check-ups, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Assessing the current physician-to-patient ratio in Maylene is therefore a priority. Publicly available data from the Alabama Department of Public Health and the U.S. Census Bureau will be used to determine this ratio, providing a baseline understanding of access.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality and accessibility of primary care are paramount. This involves evaluating the presence of standout practices within the ZIP code. These practices are identified based on factors like patient reviews, accreditation status, and the availability of comprehensive services. Are there practices that proactively offer lung cancer screenings to eligible patients? Do they employ electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate seamless communication and care coordination? The presence of such practices significantly elevates the Lung Cancer Score.

The adoption of telemedicine is another crucial element. Telemedicine offers several benefits, particularly in rural areas where access to specialists may be limited. It allows patients to consult with pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially accelerating the diagnosis and treatment process. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption among primary care physicians in Maylene is essential. Do they offer virtual consultations? Do they use remote monitoring tools to track patient health? The degree of telemedicine integration directly impacts the Lung Cancer Score.

Lung cancer treatment is a physically and emotionally taxing experience. The availability of mental health resources is therefore critical. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups. Does the primary care network in Maylene offer referrals to mental health professionals? Are there local support groups specifically for cancer patients and their families? The presence and accessibility of these resources significantly contribute to the patient's overall well-being and, consequently, the Lung Cancer Score.

The availability of specialized care within a reasonable distance is also a factor. While primary care forms the foundation, patients often require the expertise of pulmonologists, oncologists, and radiation oncologists. The proximity of these specialists, and the ease with which patients can access them, influences the Lung Cancer Score. This involves evaluating the location of nearby hospitals and cancer centers and assessing the ease of referral from primary care physicians.

Data collection will involve a combination of publicly available information, including Medicare and Medicaid data, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the Alabama Department of Public Health. Patient reviews from platforms like Healthgrades and Zocdoc will also be considered. Direct outreach to local primary care practices will be conducted to gather information on telemedicine adoption, screening practices, and referral processes. This comprehensive data gathering approach will ensure a thorough and accurate assessment.

The Lung Cancer Score will be a qualitative assessment, not a numerical one. It will consider the following factors:

* **Primary Care Access:** Physician-to-patient ratio, wait times for appointments, and the availability of evening and weekend hours.
* **Preventative Care:** The proactive offering of lung cancer screenings, particularly for at-risk individuals.
* **Telemedicine Adoption:** The extent of virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and other telemedicine services.
* **Mental Health Resources:** The availability of referrals to mental health professionals and local support groups.
* **Specialist Access:** The proximity and ease of access to pulmonologists, oncologists, and radiation oncologists.
* **Practice Quality:** Accreditation status, patient reviews, and the use of EHRs.

The final assessment will provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape in Maylene, highlighting strengths and weaknesses related to lung cancer care. This analysis will be used to inform patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers about areas needing improvement. The ultimate goal is to improve access to quality care and support better outcomes for individuals affected by lung cancer.

This analysis, however, is limited by the availability and accuracy of data. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, and the information presented here may not reflect the most current situation. It is essential to consult with healthcare professionals for personalized medical advice.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Maylene and surrounding areas, including the location of primary care practices, specialists, and hospitals, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. These maps provide an interactive and intuitive way to visualize healthcare resources and make informed decisions about your health.