35458, Elrod, Alabama Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 35458, Elrod, Alabama is 81 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 35458 has some form of health insurance. 16.04 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 92.45 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 35458 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 228 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35458. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 63 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 691 health care providers accessible to residents in 35458, Elrod, Alabama.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 35458 and Primary Care Availability in Elrod**

This analysis evaluates the landscape of primary care and related healthcare resources within ZIP code 35458, focusing on factors pertinent to lung cancer prevention, early detection, and patient support. The assessment considers physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and access to mental health services, all crucial elements in providing comprehensive care to individuals at risk or affected by lung cancer. The geographical focus is on the town of Elrod, Alabama, a community within the 35458 ZIP code, to provide a localized perspective.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests upon robust primary care. Early detection, through screenings like low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, is pivotal in improving survival rates. Primary care physicians (PCPs) serve as the initial point of contact, guiding patients through screening recommendations, interpreting results, and coordinating further care if necessary. The availability of PCPs directly impacts the accessibility of these vital services.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator of healthcare accessibility. A higher ratio, reflecting fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Within ZIP code 35458, the physician-to-patient ratio needs careful examination. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and the Alabama Department of Public Health can provide insights into the number of PCPs actively practicing within the area and the population they serve. If the ratio is unfavorable, this suggests a potential barrier to accessing timely primary care, a significant concern for individuals at risk of lung cancer.

Beyond sheer numbers, the characteristics of primary care practices are important. Are practices accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate diverse schedules? Do they participate in insurance networks commonly used by residents of Elrod and the surrounding areas? These factors influence the ease with which individuals can establish and maintain a relationship with a PCP. Practices that proactively engage in preventive care, such as offering smoking cessation programs or providing education about lung cancer risk factors, are particularly valuable.

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant tool for expanding healthcare access, especially in rural areas like Elrod. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in 35458 is a key factor to consider. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring, reducing the need for in-person visits and overcoming geographical barriers. Practices that offer telemedicine options can potentially serve a broader patient population and provide more convenient access to care. This is particularly relevant for patients who may have difficulty traveling to appointments due to mobility issues, transportation limitations, or other factors.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked but crucial component of comprehensive cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis, and the subsequent treatment and recovery, can be emotionally and psychologically challenging. Access to mental health services, such as counseling, therapy, and support groups, is essential for patients to cope with the stress, anxiety, and depression that may arise. The availability of mental health professionals within the 35458 area, and their integration with primary care practices, is a critical factor in evaluating the overall quality of care. Practices that offer integrated behavioral health services, or have established referral pathways to mental health providers, are better positioned to support the holistic well-being of their patients.

Identifying standout practices within the 35458 ZIP code requires a deeper dive. This involves examining patient reviews, assessing the range of services offered, and evaluating the practice's commitment to preventive care and patient education. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, with a focus on communication, empathy, and shared decision-making, are likely to provide a more positive and effective healthcare experience. Further investigation into specific practices can include contacting local healthcare organizations, reviewing online directories, and gathering information from community members.

The specific needs of the Elrod community should also be considered. Factors such as the prevalence of smoking, the demographics of the population, and the availability of community resources can influence the overall healthcare landscape. Tailoring healthcare services to meet the unique needs of the community is critical for improving health outcomes. This may involve targeted outreach programs, culturally sensitive care, and collaborations with local organizations.

In conclusion, assessing the quality of lung cancer care in the 35458 ZIP code requires a multifaceted approach. Evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources provides a more comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility and quality. The specific needs of the Elrod community should be considered to improve health outcomes.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape within ZIP code 35458, including the location of primary care practices, hospitals, and mental health providers, explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers a powerful mapping platform that allows you to visualize healthcare data, identify potential gaps in care, and make informed decisions about healthcare access and resource allocation.