35172, Trafford, Alabama Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 35172, Trafford, Alabama is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.14 percent of the residents in 35172 has some form of health insurance. 37.78 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.41 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 35172 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 552 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35172. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 439 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,187 health care providers accessible to residents in 35172, Trafford, Alabama.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Trafford, Alabama (ZIP Code 35172)

This analysis delves into the healthcare landscape of Trafford, Alabama (ZIP code 35172), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and overall patient well-being. The goal is to provide a nuanced "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, considering primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and the presence of mental health resources. This assessment aims to highlight areas of strength and weakness within the local healthcare infrastructure.

Trafford, a small community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. The availability of primary care physicians forms the bedrock of preventative care, including early lung cancer screening and diagnosis. A robust primary care network allows for regular check-ups, smoking cessation counseling, and prompt referrals to specialists. Conversely, a scarcity of primary care providers can lead to delayed diagnoses, advanced-stage cancer detection, and poorer patient outcomes.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A higher ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, can strain the existing healthcare system. This can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced physician availability, and potentially compromised patient care. The ideal ratio varies depending on the population's demographics and health needs. However, a significantly low ratio in Trafford could signal a need for increased physician recruitment or the implementation of innovative healthcare delivery models.

Standout practices within the 35172 ZIP code are those that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive lung cancer care. This includes practices that actively promote lung cancer screening for high-risk individuals, such as current or former smokers. Practices that utilize advanced diagnostic technologies, such as low-dose CT scans, are also crucial. Furthermore, practices that offer integrated care, including smoking cessation programs and access to pulmonologists and oncologists, are highly valued. Identifying these standout practices can provide a benchmark for other providers and offer patients informed choices.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients in Trafford to access specialists and receive consultations remotely. This can be particularly beneficial for lung cancer patients, who may require frequent follow-up appointments or consultations with specialists located outside the immediate area. The availability of telemedicine services can significantly improve access to care and reduce the burden on patients and their families.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but essential component of lung cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, is critical for supporting patients throughout their treatment journey. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care plans demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient well-being.

Assessing the "Lung Cancer Score" involves considering all these factors. A high score would indicate a strong primary care network, favorable physician-to-patient ratios, widespread telemedicine adoption, and robust mental health support. Conversely, a low score would reflect challenges in these areas, potentially leading to poorer lung cancer outcomes. The score is not just a numerical value but a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare ecosystem's ability to effectively address lung cancer.

Specifics regarding physician-to-patient ratios in Trafford require data analysis. This involves obtaining information on the number of primary care physicians practicing within the 35172 ZIP code and comparing it to the population size. This data can be sourced from the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners or through healthcare data analytics platforms. The resulting ratio will provide a quantitative measure of physician availability.

Identifying standout practices requires a combination of research and patient feedback. This includes reviewing online reviews, consulting with local healthcare organizations, and potentially conducting patient surveys. Practices that consistently receive positive feedback, offer comprehensive services, and demonstrate a commitment to patient education and support should be recognized.

Telemedicine adoption can be assessed by contacting local primary care practices and inquiring about their telemedicine capabilities. This includes asking about the types of services offered remotely, the platforms used, and the availability of virtual consultations. The extent of telemedicine integration will directly impact the "Lung Cancer Score."

The availability of mental health resources can be evaluated by researching local mental health providers, hospitals, and community organizations. This includes identifying the types of services offered, the availability of therapists specializing in oncology, and the accessibility of these resources for patients in Trafford.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Trafford, Alabama, is ultimately a dynamic assessment that should be updated regularly. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, and factors such as physician recruitment, technological advancements, and changes in healthcare policy can all impact the score. This analysis provides a starting point for understanding the healthcare environment in Trafford and identifying areas for improvement.

The data used to compile this analysis is subject to change. Information on physician counts, primary care practice availability, and mental health services requires continuous monitoring. This analysis is a snapshot in time and should be considered as such. Further investigation, including direct contact with local healthcare providers and analysis of patient outcomes, is recommended for a more comprehensive understanding.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Trafford, Alabama, and to explore the spatial distribution of healthcare resources, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide valuable insights into the geographic accessibility of healthcare services and help identify areas with limited access.