35150, Sylacauga, Alabama Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 35150, Sylacauga, Alabama is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.33 percent of the residents in 35150 has some form of health insurance. 50.67 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.95 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 35150 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,632 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35150. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,750 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 185 health care providers accessible to residents in 35150, Sylacauga, Alabama.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Sylacauga, AL (ZIP Code 35150)

This analysis assesses the healthcare landscape in Sylacauga, Alabama (ZIP Code 35150), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer care. We’ll examine primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, ultimately assigning a "Lung Cancer Score" reflecting the overall quality and accessibility of care for residents. This score will be a qualitative assessment based on the available data and research.

**Primary Care Availability and Physician-to-Patient Ratio:**

A robust primary care infrastructure is the cornerstone of effective lung cancer screening and early detection. In Sylacauga, assessing primary care availability begins with understanding the physician-to-patient ratio. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and the Alabama Department of Public Health will be crucial. We will need to determine the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) actively practicing within the 35150 ZIP code, and cross-reference this with the estimated population. A lower ratio, indicating more patients per physician, could signal potential challenges in accessing timely appointments and preventative care, including lung cancer screenings.

Beyond raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs is critical. Are physicians concentrated in specific areas, potentially leaving underserved populations? The presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or other safety-net providers will be evaluated, as these often play a vital role in providing care to vulnerable populations. Access to specialists, particularly pulmonologists and oncologists, is also a key factor. The proximity of specialists and the ease with which patients can be referred are essential for a comprehensive care pathway.

**Standout Practices and Quality of Care:**

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several criteria. We will consider patient reviews and ratings from platforms like Healthgrades and Vitals. These reviews often provide insights into patient experiences, including wait times, communication with providers, and overall satisfaction. Accreditation status, such as those from the Joint Commission or other recognized organizations, indicates adherence to established quality standards.

Furthermore, we will investigate the practices' commitment to lung cancer screening guidelines, such as those recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF). Do practices actively offer low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans to eligible patients? Are they proactive in identifying high-risk individuals, such as current or former smokers, and recommending appropriate screening? The existence of comprehensive care programs, including smoking cessation support and patient education, will also be assessed.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Accessibility:**

Telemedicine has the potential to significantly improve access to care, particularly in rural areas like Sylacauga. We will examine the extent to which local practices have adopted telemedicine technologies. This includes assessing the availability of virtual consultations for primary care visits, specialist consultations, and follow-up appointments. The use of remote monitoring devices, such as those that track vital signs, will also be considered.

The availability of telehealth services can be a game-changer for patients who face geographical barriers or mobility limitations. Telemedicine can facilitate quicker access to specialists, reduce travel time and costs, and improve overall convenience. The ease of use of telemedicine platforms, including the availability of technical support, is also a factor.

**Mental Health Resources and Integration:**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's mental health. Anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges are common. Therefore, the integration of mental health resources into the care pathway is essential. We will assess the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, within the local healthcare system.

Does the local healthcare system offer integrated behavioral health services, where mental health professionals work collaboratively with primary care physicians and oncologists? Are there readily available resources for patients, such as support groups, counseling services, and access to psychiatric medications? The availability of mental health support for caregivers is also a crucial consideration. Addressing the mental health needs of patients and their families is integral to providing comprehensive, patient-centered care.

**Lung Cancer Score and Overall Assessment:**

Based on the factors discussed above, we will assign a Lung Cancer Score for Sylacauga (ZIP Code 35150). This score will be a qualitative assessment, reflecting the overall quality and accessibility of care. The score will be based on a sliding scale, with a higher score indicating a more robust healthcare environment for lung cancer patients.

A high score would indicate: a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, readily available primary care, practices actively following screening guidelines, robust telemedicine adoption, and comprehensive mental health resources. A lower score would indicate potential challenges in one or more of these areas, highlighting areas where improvements are needed.

**Conclusion:**

This analysis provides a snapshot of the healthcare landscape in Sylacauga, Alabama, with a specific focus on lung cancer care. By evaluating primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, we aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system. This information can be used to inform healthcare providers, policymakers, and residents, ultimately leading to improvements in the quality and accessibility of care for lung cancer patients.

**Explore the Data Further with CartoChrome Maps:**

Want to visualize the healthcare landscape in Sylacauga and surrounding areas? CartoChrome maps can provide a powerful visual representation of physician locations, hospital access, and other relevant data points. Utilize the power of mapping to gain a deeper understanding of healthcare accessibility in your community.