The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 35442, Aliceville, Alabama is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 68.77 percent of the residents in 35442 has some form of health insurance. 39.25 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 39.77 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 35442 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 990 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35442. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 773 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 107 health care providers accessible to residents in 35442, Aliceville, Alabama.
Health Scores in 35442, Aliceville, Alabama
Lung Cancer Score | 2 |
---|---|
People Score | 11 |
Provider Score | 28 |
Hospital Score | 30 |
Travel Score | 10 |
35442 | Aliceville | Alabama | |
---|---|---|---|
Providers per 10,000 residents | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Pediatricians per 10,000 residents under 18 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Geriatricians per 10,000 residents over 65 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
The following analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for primary care physicians in ZIP code 35442, Aliceville, Alabama, focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and patient support. This score is not a definitive medical judgment but a comparative analysis of available resources and access points. The ultimate healthcare decision should always be made in consultation with a qualified medical professional.
The foundation of a successful lung cancer strategy in any community rests upon the availability and quality of primary care. In Aliceville, a town within the 35442 ZIP code, understanding the physician landscape is crucial. The physician-to-patient ratio is a key indicator. A low ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. Data on the precise physician-to-patient ratio for primary care physicians within 35442 is essential. Public health resources, such as the Alabama Department of Public Health, may provide this data. The score will be negatively impacted if the ratio is unfavorable.
Beyond sheer numbers, the characteristics of the available primary care practices matter. Are there any standout practices in Aliceville? Do any clinics actively promote lung cancer screening programs, such as those recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) for high-risk individuals? These programs, which often include low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, are vital for early detection. Practices that actively engage in these programs will receive a higher score. The presence of certified smoking cessation programs within these practices is another positive factor.
Telemedicine adoption is another critical component of the Lung Cancer Score. The ability to consult with a physician remotely, especially for follow-up appointments or discussing test results, can significantly improve patient access and convenience. Practices that offer robust telemedicine options will be viewed favorably. This includes the ease of scheduling virtual appointments, the quality of the video conferencing platforms used, and the integration of telemedicine into the practice's overall workflow.
Mental health resources are often overlooked, but they are critical for patients dealing with a lung cancer diagnosis. The emotional toll of a cancer diagnosis, treatment, and recovery is substantial. The availability of on-site or readily accessible mental health services, such as counseling or support groups, within or in close proximity to primary care practices, is a significant factor in the Lung Cancer Score. Practices that have established partnerships with mental health professionals or offer these services directly will receive a higher score.
The Lung Cancer Score also considers the availability of specialists. While primary care physicians are the gatekeepers to the healthcare system, the presence of oncologists, pulmonologists, and radiologists in the area is crucial for comprehensive care. The distance patients must travel to see these specialists is a factor. The closer these specialists are, the better the score. The presence of a hospital equipped to handle lung cancer treatment, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, is also a significant positive factor.
The level of patient education offered by primary care practices also impacts the score. Practices that actively provide educational materials about lung cancer risk factors, screening guidelines, and treatment options will be viewed more favorably. This includes the availability of brochures, online resources, and educational sessions for patients. The clarity and accessibility of this information are also considered.
The score also assesses the practice's commitment to patient advocacy. Does the practice have a dedicated patient navigator or care coordinator to help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system? Does the practice assist patients with insurance issues, financial assistance programs, and other support services? These services can significantly improve the patient experience and are therefore a positive factor in the score.
Another important aspect of the Lung Cancer Score is the practice's use of electronic health records (EHRs). EHRs facilitate the sharing of patient information between different healthcare providers, which can improve care coordination and reduce the risk of errors. Practices that use EHRs effectively will receive a higher score. The interoperability of the EHR system, meaning its ability to share information with other healthcare providers, is also a factor.
The analysis of the Lung Cancer Score also considers the overall quality of care provided by the primary care practices in 35442. This includes factors such as patient satisfaction, adherence to evidence-based guidelines, and the practice's commitment to continuous quality improvement. Data on these factors can be obtained from various sources, such as patient surveys, quality reports, and accreditation organizations.
The overall score will reflect the combination of all these factors. A high score indicates a primary care environment that is well-equipped to address the challenges of lung cancer, from early detection to comprehensive treatment and support. A lower score suggests areas where improvements are needed to enhance patient care. This assessment is dynamic and should be updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape.
For a comprehensive visual representation of this data and a deeper dive into the healthcare landscape of Aliceville and the surrounding areas, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can visually represent physician locations, specialist availability, and other relevant data points, providing a valuable tool for understanding and improving access to care.
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