35464, Gainesville, Alabama Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 35464, Gainesville, Alabama is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.99 percent of the residents in 35464 has some form of health insurance. 63.24 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 33.49 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 35464 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 324 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35464. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 8 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 27 health care providers accessible to residents in 35464, Gainesville, Alabama.

Here's an analysis focusing on lung cancer care, primary care access, and related factors within the specified geographic areas, designed to meet your requirements:

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 35464 & Primary Care in Gainesville**

Assessing the quality and accessibility of healthcare, particularly for a serious condition like lung cancer, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) in Gainesville, Florida, and then examine the healthcare landscape within ZIP Code 35464, a location we assume is relevant to the Gainesville area, perhaps a surrounding community or a specific area within the city's sphere of influence. This analysis will consider physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components of comprehensive cancer care.

The foundation of effective lung cancer treatment often rests on the strength of the primary care system. Early detection is paramount. A robust network of PCPs in Gainesville is essential for providing routine screenings, recognizing potential symptoms, and facilitating timely referrals to specialists. The physician-to-patient ratio in Gainesville is a critical indicator. A high ratio, indicating a shortage of PCPs, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and potentially poorer outcomes for patients. Publicly available data from the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) or the Florida Department of Health would be the starting point for determining this ratio.

Beyond raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs within Gainesville is also important. Are there underserved areas with limited access to primary care? This can be determined by analyzing the geographic distribution of practices and comparing it to population density and demographic data. The presence of Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) or other safety-net providers is also a key consideration, as these facilities often serve vulnerable populations and can play a crucial role in early detection and preventative care.

Once the primary care infrastructure is assessed, the focus shifts to the availability of specialized care, particularly within ZIP Code 35464. The presence of oncologists, pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, and radiation oncologists is critical. Are there hospitals or cancer centers located within or near this ZIP code that offer comprehensive lung cancer treatment, including advanced imaging, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical options? The accreditation status of these facilities (e.g., by the American College of Surgeons' Commission on Cancer) is a significant indicator of quality.

Identifying standout practices within ZIP Code 35464 involves looking beyond basic service offerings. Does a particular practice have a strong reputation within the community? Are they known for their expertise in lung cancer treatment? This can be gleaned from patient reviews, physician referrals, and awards or recognitions. Does the practice participate in clinical trials, offering patients access to cutting-edge treatments? Do they have multidisciplinary teams, including oncologists, nurses, social workers, and other specialists, working collaboratively to provide comprehensive care?

Telemedicine adoption is a critical factor in modern healthcare, particularly in areas where access to specialists may be limited. Does the primary care network in Gainesville and the specialist practices within ZIP Code 35464 offer telemedicine consultations? Telemedicine can improve access to care for patients who live in rural areas, have mobility issues, or simply prefer the convenience of virtual appointments. It can also facilitate remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment and provide access to specialists who may not be geographically accessible.

The psychological impact of a lung cancer diagnosis is profound. Mental health resources are therefore a critical component of comprehensive care. Does the primary care system in Gainesville and the specialist practices in ZIP Code 35464 have access to mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers? Are there support groups or counseling services available for patients and their families? Integrated behavioral health services, where mental health professionals are embedded within the oncology practice, are considered best practice.

The availability of these resources is a key factor in determining the quality of care. The presence of palliative care services is also important. Palliative care focuses on relieving the symptoms and stress of a serious illness, providing an extra layer of support for patients and their families.

Analyzing the quality of care extends beyond the availability of services to include the patient experience. What are the wait times for appointments? How responsive are the practices to patient inquiries? What is the level of patient satisfaction with the care they receive? Patient surveys and online reviews can provide valuable insights into these aspects of care.

When evaluating the healthcare landscape, it is important to consider the socioeconomic factors that influence health outcomes. Are there disparities in access to care based on income, race, or other demographic factors? Addressing these disparities is essential for ensuring that all patients have an equal opportunity to receive high-quality lung cancer care.

This analysis, while comprehensive, is a starting point. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. Regular assessments are necessary to ensure that the resources available meet the needs of the community. Information on the specific practices, their services, and the resources available within ZIP Code 35464 and the Gainesville primary care network can be obtained through a combination of online research, contacting healthcare providers directly, and consulting with local health organizations.

To visualize and explore the healthcare data, consider using interactive mapping tools. CartoChrome maps can offer a powerful way to see the geographic distribution of healthcare providers, patient demographics, and other relevant factors, providing a clear and comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape.