35456, Duncanville, Alabama Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 35456, Duncanville, Alabama is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.24 percent of the residents in 35456 has some form of health insurance. 26.01 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.79 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 35456 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,204 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35456. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 817 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,242 health care providers accessible to residents in 35456, Duncanville, Alabama.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Duncanville, Alabama (ZIP Code 35456)**

The health landscape of Duncanville, Alabama, necessitates a comprehensive assessment, particularly concerning lung cancer care and the availability of primary care services. This analysis, termed a “Lung Cancer Score,” aims to evaluate the local medical infrastructure, focusing on factors that directly impact patient outcomes, including physician availability, adoption of innovative technologies, and the integration of mental health support. This is not a formal medical ranking, but rather an informational overview.

The foundation of quality lung cancer care rests on the accessibility of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Duncanville, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. While specific, up-to-the-minute figures fluctuate, publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and the Alabama Department of Public Health provide estimates. These sources often categorize areas as medically underserved or having a shortage of primary care providers. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to delayed diagnoses, reduced preventative care, and ultimately, poorer outcomes for lung cancer patients. The analysis will consider the presence of Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) or other clinics that serve vulnerable populations.

Beyond raw numbers, the “Lung Cancer Score” considers the quality and specialization of available primary care. Do PCPs in Duncanville have experience in early cancer detection, including ordering and interpreting chest X-rays or recommending low-dose CT scans for at-risk patients? The score evaluates whether practices actively participate in screening programs aligned with guidelines from organizations like the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF). Furthermore, the score examines the availability of specialists. While primary care is the gateway, access to pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons is vital for advanced diagnosis, treatment, and management of lung cancer. The analysis will seek to determine the proximity of these specialists and the ease with which patients can be referred.

Standout practices within the Duncanville area will be identified. These practices are defined by their proactive approach to patient care, their commitment to adopting evidence-based practices, and their integration of technology to improve patient outcomes. This could include practices with dedicated lung cancer screening programs, those that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively to track patient risk factors and manage care, or those that offer extended hours or weekend appointments to improve access. The analysis will consider patient reviews and testimonials, if available, to gauge patient satisfaction and the perceived quality of care.

The adoption of telemedicine is a significant factor in the “Lung Cancer Score.” Telemedicine, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, can improve access to care, especially for patients who face geographical barriers or mobility limitations. The analysis will investigate the extent to which practices in Duncanville offer telemedicine services, particularly for follow-up appointments, medication management, and patient education. The availability of telehealth options for mental health support is also a key consideration.

Mental health support is an essential component of comprehensive lung cancer care. A cancer diagnosis, and the subsequent treatment, can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being. The “Lung Cancer Score” assesses the availability of mental health resources in Duncanville, including access to therapists, counselors, and support groups. The analysis will consider whether primary care practices screen patients for depression and anxiety, and whether they have established referral pathways to mental health professionals. It will also investigate the availability of resources specifically tailored to the needs of cancer patients, such as support groups or counseling services offered by local hospitals or cancer centers.

The “Lung Cancer Score” also considers the availability of patient education resources. Lung cancer patients and their families need access to accurate and up-to-date information about the disease, treatment options, and supportive care services. The analysis will investigate whether practices provide educational materials, such as brochures, websites, or online resources. It will also consider whether practices actively engage in patient education, such as conducting educational sessions or providing individualized counseling.

Finally, the “Lung Cancer Score” considers the overall healthcare infrastructure of Duncanville. This includes the presence of hospitals, cancer centers, and other healthcare facilities. The analysis will evaluate the quality of these facilities, including their accreditation status, their staffing levels, and their access to advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies. The analysis will also consider the availability of supportive care services, such as palliative care, hospice care, and rehabilitation services.

In conclusion, the “Lung Cancer Score” for Duncanville, Alabama, is a multifaceted assessment that considers the availability and quality of primary care, the accessibility of specialists, the adoption of technology, and the integration of mental health support. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the local healthcare landscape, highlighting areas of strength and identifying opportunities for improvement. This information is intended to be informative and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare resources in Duncanville and surrounding areas, including the locations of primary care practices, specialists, and healthcare facilities, consider exploring the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. These maps can offer valuable insights into the geographical distribution of healthcare services, helping you visualize the accessibility of care in your community.