35149, Sycamore, Alabama Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 35149, Sycamore, Alabama is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 35149 has some form of health insurance. 20.47 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.53 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 35149 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35149. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 0 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 295 health care providers accessible to residents in 35149, Sycamore, Alabama.

The analysis below examines the landscape of lung cancer care and primary care access within the ZIP code 35149 (Sycamore, Alabama), focusing on the availability and quality of care, with an emphasis on resources relevant to lung cancer patients. This assessment considers factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health support, all crucial elements in providing comprehensive care.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in the availability of skilled primary care physicians (PCPs). In Sycamore, the PCP-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A low ratio, meaning a smaller number of PCPs serving a larger population, can lead to delayed diagnoses and treatment, particularly for conditions like lung cancer that require early detection. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility, potentially allowing for more proactive screening and management of the disease. This analysis would need to consider the number of PCPs practicing within the ZIP code, and the estimated population they serve. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) or state medical boards can provide this information. The analysis should also consider the age distribution of the population within 35149, as older demographics are more susceptible to lung cancer, and therefore, require more intensive care.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. The analysis would evaluate the presence of practices with a demonstrated focus on preventative care, including lung cancer screening programs. This involves assessing whether practices adhere to current guidelines for screening, such as those from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), which recommends annual screening for individuals meeting specific criteria. The evaluation would also look for practices that actively promote smoking cessation programs, a crucial component of lung cancer prevention. This would involve examining the availability of resources like counseling and medication assistance within the practices.

The presence of specialists, particularly pulmonologists and oncologists, within or easily accessible to 35149 is another key factor. Lung cancer treatment often requires a multidisciplinary approach, involving these specialists. The analysis would assess the proximity of these specialists, travel times, and the availability of appointments. Furthermore, the analysis would investigate the affiliations of local PCPs with larger healthcare systems, as this can influence access to specialist care and advanced treatment options. This includes access to radiation therapy, surgical oncology, and medical oncology.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare, particularly in rural areas. The analysis would assess the adoption of telemedicine by local practices, specifically for lung cancer-related care. This includes the availability of virtual consultations with PCPs, pulmonologists, and oncologists. Telemedicine can improve access to care, reduce travel burdens, and facilitate remote monitoring of patients. The analysis would investigate the types of telemedicine services offered, the technologies used, and the patient satisfaction with these services.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked, yet critical, aspect of lung cancer care. A diagnosis of lung cancer can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The analysis would examine the availability of mental health resources within 35149, including access to therapists, counselors, and support groups. It would assess whether local practices have integrated mental health services into their care models, and if they offer referrals to mental health professionals. The presence of support groups specifically for lung cancer patients and their families is another important consideration.

The analysis would also identify any standout practices within 35149 that demonstrate a commitment to providing high-quality lung cancer care. This would involve identifying practices that have implemented best practices, such as patient navigation programs, which help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system. It would also consider practices that have received recognition for their quality of care, such as awards or certifications.

The analysis would also consider the availability of palliative care services. Palliative care focuses on improving the quality of life for patients with serious illnesses, by addressing their physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. The analysis would investigate the presence of palliative care specialists or programs within the community, and their accessibility to lung cancer patients.

The analysis would also consider the availability of financial assistance programs for lung cancer patients. Lung cancer treatment can be expensive, and financial burdens can add to the stress of the disease. The analysis would investigate the availability of programs that can help patients with the costs of treatment, such as medication assistance programs and financial counseling services.

In conclusion, a thorough analysis of lung cancer care and primary care availability in 35149 requires a multi-faceted approach. It must consider the physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of primary care, the presence of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health support, the presence of standout practices, and the availability of palliative care and financial assistance. This comprehensive assessment will provide a valuable understanding of the resources available to lung cancer patients in Sycamore, Alabama, and identify areas for improvement.

For a visual representation of these healthcare resources, including physician locations, specialist availability, and access to support services, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can visually represent this data, allowing for a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in 35149.