35148, Sumiton, Alabama Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 35148, Sumiton, Alabama is 15 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.63 percent of the residents in 35148 has some form of health insurance. 35.72 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.17 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 35148 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 484 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35148. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 485 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 168 health care providers accessible to residents in 35148, Sumiton, Alabama.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Sumiton, AL (ZIP Code 35148)

This analysis examines the landscape of primary care availability and related resources within ZIP code 35148 (Sumiton, Alabama), specifically focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer screening, diagnosis, and support. The goal is to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, considering physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all within the context of a community's ability to effectively address lung cancer concerns.

Sumiton, a small city in Walker County, faces unique healthcare challenges. Rural communities often grapple with limited access to specialized care, including pulmonologists and oncologists. This scarcity necessitates a robust primary care infrastructure that can serve as the first point of contact for patients, facilitating early detection and timely referrals. The success of lung cancer treatment hinges on early diagnosis, making the accessibility and quality of primary care paramount.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio:**

The physician-to-patient ratio in Sumiton is a critical indicator of healthcare accessibility. Precise figures are difficult to obtain without proprietary data. However, generally, rural areas tend to have fewer physicians per capita compared to urban centers. This shortage can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced patient-physician interaction time, and potentially delayed diagnoses. A lower physician-to-patient ratio translates to a lower Lung Cancer Score, as it directly impacts the ease with which individuals can access essential preventative care and diagnostic services.

**Standout Practices and Their Impact:**

The presence of standout primary care practices significantly elevates the Lung Cancer Score. These practices are characterized by several key elements: a commitment to preventative care, including actively promoting and facilitating lung cancer screenings for eligible patients; a well-trained and compassionate staff; and a proactive approach to patient education. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively can improve care coordination and communication, streamlining the referral process and ensuring that patients receive timely and appropriate follow-up care. The existence of a practice that offers on-site imaging services, such as low-dose CT scans, would be a significant advantage, as it would reduce the need for patients to travel to other facilities for screening. The practices that prioritize patient-centered care and actively participate in community outreach programs to raise awareness about lung cancer risk factors and screening guidelines would also contribute to a higher score.

**Telemedicine Adoption: A Vital Bridge:**

Telemedicine adoption plays a crucial role in bridging the healthcare gap, especially in rural areas. The ability to conduct virtual consultations with primary care physicians, pulmonologists, and even mental health professionals can significantly improve access to care. Telemedicine can reduce the need for travel, making it easier for patients to receive consultations, follow-up appointments, and medication management services. Practices that embrace telemedicine technologies, including secure video conferencing and remote patient monitoring, contribute positively to the Lung Cancer Score. The availability of telemedicine for mental health support is particularly important, as a lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a significant impact on a patient's emotional well-being.

**Mental Health Resources: A Crucial Component:**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment are often accompanied by significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and fear. The availability of mental health resources is therefore a critical factor in the overall Lung Cancer Score. This includes access to licensed therapists, counselors, and support groups. Practices that have integrated mental health services into their care models, or that have established strong referral networks with mental health providers, are better equipped to support patients throughout their journey. The availability of resources such as support groups specifically for lung cancer patients and their families can be invaluable in providing emotional support and fostering a sense of community. The presence of these resources significantly improves the Lung Cancer Score by addressing the holistic needs of patients.

**Overall Lung Cancer Score Assessment for Sumiton (ZIP Code 35148):**

Without access to real-time, granular data, a precise Lung Cancer Score is impossible to determine. However, based on general trends and the typical challenges of rural healthcare, Sumiton likely faces moderate challenges in this area. The score is likely impacted by the physician-to-patient ratio, which is probably lower than in more urban areas. The adoption of telemedicine may be moderate, and the availability of mental health resources might be limited. The presence of standout primary care practices, actively promoting screening and offering comprehensive patient support, would significantly improve the score. Addressing the issues of access to care, promoting early detection, and providing comprehensive support services are essential for improving the Lung Cancer Score in Sumiton.

**Conclusion:**

Improving the Lung Cancer Score in Sumiton requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes attracting and retaining qualified healthcare professionals, expanding access to telemedicine services, and strengthening mental health support networks. Additionally, community-based initiatives to raise awareness about lung cancer risk factors, screening guidelines, and available resources are crucial. The ability to visualize and analyze healthcare data, including physician locations, patient demographics, and resource availability, is essential for developing effective strategies to improve healthcare outcomes.

**Call to Action:**

To gain a more in-depth understanding of the healthcare landscape in Sumiton and to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome can help you analyze geographical data, identify areas of need, and develop targeted interventions to improve lung cancer outcomes in your community.