35221, Birmingham, Alabama Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 35221, Birmingham, Alabama is 92 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.48 percent of the residents in 35221 has some form of health insurance. 62.03 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.81 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 35221 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 661 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 115 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35221. An estimate of 103 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,132 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 29,695 health care providers accessible to residents in 35221, Birmingham, Alabama.

The analysis below assesses the availability of lung cancer care and primary care resources within ZIP code 35221, located in Birmingham, Alabama. It considers factors relevant to patient outcomes, including physician density, practice quality, technological integration, and mental health support, aiming to provide an informative overview for residents. The focus is on evaluating the healthcare landscape rather than assigning a numerical "score."

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator of access to care. In 35221, the density of primary care physicians is a crucial starting point. A higher concentration of primary care physicians generally translates to easier access for routine checkups, preventative screenings, and initial symptom assessment. This is especially important for lung cancer detection, where early diagnosis significantly improves survival rates. The availability of pulmonologists and oncologists within and near the ZIP code is also vital. Geographic proximity to specialists reduces travel burdens and facilitates timely consultations and treatment initiation. Examining the ratio of these specialists to the population provides a more nuanced understanding of the healthcare infrastructure.

Standout practices within 35221 and its surrounding areas demonstrate excellence in lung cancer care. These practices often distinguish themselves through a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists, and other specialists to collaborate on patient care. The presence of dedicated lung cancer screening programs, utilizing low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals, is a key indicator of proactive care. Furthermore, the implementation of evidence-based treatment protocols and participation in clinical trials suggest a commitment to providing patients with the most advanced and effective therapies. Reputation within the community, as reflected in patient reviews and peer recognition, also contributes to the assessment of practice quality.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, particularly in areas where access to specialists might be limited. The availability of telehealth services, including virtual consultations with primary care physicians, pulmonologists, and oncologists, can improve access to care for patients in 35221. Telemedicine can facilitate remote monitoring of patients, provide convenient follow-up appointments, and reduce the need for frequent in-person visits, especially for those undergoing cancer treatment. Examining the extent to which practices utilize telemedicine platforms, the types of services offered virtually, and patient satisfaction with these services provides insight into the integration of technology into care delivery.

Mental health resources are an integral part of comprehensive cancer care. Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. The availability of mental health support services, such as counseling, therapy, and support groups, within or easily accessible to residents of 35221 is crucial. Collaboration between primary care physicians, oncologists, and mental health professionals ensures that patients receive integrated care that addresses both their physical and emotional needs. Assessing the availability of these services, the integration of mental health screenings into routine care, and the referral pathways to mental health specialists provides a comprehensive view of the support available to patients.

Primary care availability in Birmingham, and by extension within 35221, is heavily influenced by factors beyond just the number of physicians. The presence of urgent care clinics, which can provide immediate care for non-life-threatening conditions, enhances accessibility. The availability of after-hours care options, such as extended clinic hours or on-call physicians, addresses the needs of patients who require care outside of regular business hours. Insurance coverage, including the acceptance of various insurance plans, plays a significant role in determining access to care. The affordability of services, considering factors like co-pays and out-of-pocket expenses, is also a key consideration. Public transportation options and the proximity of healthcare facilities to residential areas impact the ease with which patients can access care.

Within 35221, specific healthcare practices and hospitals warrant attention. The presence of major medical centers, such as those affiliated with large health systems, often indicates a concentration of specialists and advanced treatment options. Assessing the specific services offered by these institutions, including their lung cancer screening programs, surgical capabilities, and radiation therapy facilities, is important. Examining the patient outcomes reported by these institutions, such as survival rates and patient satisfaction scores, provides valuable insights into the quality of care provided. The integration of these facilities with primary care practices within the ZIP code is also important for facilitating seamless care coordination.

The analysis of healthcare resources in 35221 reveals a complex landscape. While specific data on physician-to-patient ratios, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources are crucial for a comprehensive assessment, the overall picture suggests a need for ongoing evaluation and improvement. The availability of primary care physicians, the presence of specialized lung cancer care, the integration of technology, and the availability of mental health support services all contribute to the quality of care available to residents.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in 35221 and beyond, consider utilizing interactive mapping tools that visualize healthcare resources. CartoChrome provides detailed maps that allow users to explore physician locations, hospital facilities, and other healthcare providers in the area. These maps can help individuals identify healthcare options near them, assess accessibility, and make informed decisions about their care. Explore the healthcare landscape with CartoChrome maps to visualize the data and make informed healthcare decisions.