35461, Ethelsville, Alabama Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 35461, Ethelsville, Alabama is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.77 percent of the residents in 35461 has some form of health insurance. 39.05 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.04 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 35461 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 375 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35461. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 464 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 76 health care providers accessible to residents in 35461, Ethelsville, Alabama.

The analysis focuses on the healthcare landscape within ZIP Code 35461, specifically evaluating resources relevant to lung cancer care, including primary care access in Ethelsville, Alabama. This assessment considers physician availability, technological integration, and supportive services, providing a nuanced understanding of the area's capacity to address the needs of patients, particularly those facing a lung cancer diagnosis.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on strong primary care. Ethelsville, a vital component of the 35461 ZIP Code area, requires a detailed examination of its primary care availability. Access to a primary care physician (PCP) is crucial for early detection, screening, and coordinated care. A low physician-to-patient ratio in Ethelsville would signal a potential bottleneck in accessing timely medical attention. Conversely, a higher ratio, indicating more PCPs per capita, would suggest a more accessible healthcare environment. This analysis necessitates data on the number of practicing PCPs within Ethelsville and the estimated population served.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. The analysis considers factors such as the presence of board-certified physicians, the range of services offered, and the availability of same-day or next-day appointments. Practices that prioritize preventative care, including smoking cessation programs and regular lung cancer screenings, would be viewed favorably. Furthermore, a focus on patient education and clear communication about risk factors and early warning signs is essential.

The adoption of telemedicine is a critical element in modern healthcare delivery. Telemedicine can significantly improve access to specialists, particularly for patients in rural areas like Ethelsville. The analysis investigates the extent to which local primary care practices utilize telemedicine for consultations, follow-up appointments, and patient education. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms are positioned to offer more convenient and accessible care, which is particularly important for patients managing chronic conditions or those with mobility limitations.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked but essential component of comprehensive cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally and psychologically taxing. The analysis assesses the availability of mental health resources within the 35461 ZIP Code area, including access to therapists, counselors, and support groups. Primary care practices that integrate mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. The presence of support groups specifically for cancer patients or their families is also a positive indicator.

The analysis extends to evaluating the presence of specialized lung cancer care within the region. While Ethelsville may primarily rely on primary care, the availability of oncologists, pulmonologists, and specialized diagnostic services within a reasonable distance is crucial. This includes the proximity of hospitals equipped with advanced imaging technology, such as CT scans and PET scans, and the availability of radiation therapy and chemotherapy services. The analysis will assess the travel time required for patients to access these specialized services.

Identifying standout practices within the 35461 ZIP Code area is a key objective. This involves recognizing primary care practices that excel in patient care, embrace technology, and offer comprehensive support services. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to patient education, proactive screening, and coordinated care. They may have implemented innovative programs, such as patient navigators or dedicated cancer care coordinators, to guide patients through the complexities of diagnosis and treatment.

The evaluation also considers the overall healthcare infrastructure within the 35461 ZIP Code area. This includes the presence of community health centers, free clinics, and other resources that provide healthcare services to underserved populations. The analysis examines the affordability of healthcare services, including insurance coverage and the availability of financial assistance programs for patients.

The analysis considers the availability of patient education materials and resources. This includes access to information about lung cancer risk factors, screening guidelines, treatment options, and support services. Practices that provide patients with clear, concise, and culturally sensitive educational materials are better equipped to empower patients to make informed decisions about their health.

The analysis recognizes the importance of patient satisfaction. This involves evaluating patient feedback, reviews, and ratings of local healthcare providers. Practices with high patient satisfaction scores are more likely to provide a positive and supportive healthcare experience. This data provides a valuable perspective on the quality of care delivered within the 35461 ZIP Code area.

The analysis will also assess the integration of electronic health records (EHRs) within primary care practices. EHRs facilitate efficient communication and coordination of care among healthcare providers. Practices that utilize EHRs are better equipped to share patient information, track progress, and manage treatment plans effectively. This is particularly important for patients with complex medical needs, such as those undergoing lung cancer treatment.

The final Lung Cancer Score for the 35461 ZIP Code area will be a composite score based on the factors discussed above. This score will provide a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare landscape, highlighting strengths and weaknesses in the context of lung cancer care. The score will be presented in a clear and concise manner, allowing stakeholders to understand the overall quality of care available within the region.

The analysis will provide a valuable resource for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers. It will help patients make informed decisions about their healthcare, guide providers in improving their services, and inform policymakers in developing strategies to address healthcare disparities and improve access to care. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare environment within the 35461 ZIP Code area, with a specific focus on resources and services relevant to lung cancer care.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape within the 35461 ZIP Code area, including the location of healthcare providers, access to services, and other relevant data, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome provides powerful mapping tools that can help you visualize and analyze healthcare data, empowering you to make informed decisions about your health and well-being.