Health Scores Near 35475, Northport, Alabama
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The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 35475, Northport, Alabama is 81 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 97.32 percent of the residents in 35475 has some form of health insurance. 24.92 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 85.31 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 35475 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 5,220 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35475. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,901 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 634 health care providers accessible to residents in 35475, Northport, Alabama.
Health Scores in 35475, Northport, Alabama
| Lung Cancer Score | 67 |
|---|---|
| People Score | 63 |
| Provider Score | 81 |
| Hospital Score | 22 |
| Travel Score | 51 |
| 35475 | Northport | 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 |
## Lung Cancer Score: Northport, AL (ZIP Code 35475) - An Analysis
This analysis assesses the healthcare landscape in Northport, Alabama (ZIP Code 35475), with a specific focus on factors relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and patient support. We'll explore primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, ultimately providing a nuanced "Lung Cancer Score" perspective.
Northport, a city nestled in Tuscaloosa County, experiences a healthcare environment shaped by both its proximity to the larger city of Tuscaloosa and its own unique community dynamics. The availability of quality healthcare, particularly in the context of a serious illness like lung cancer, is paramount.
**Primary Care Availability and Physician-to-Patient Ratios**
A strong foundation of accessible primary care is crucial for early detection and effective management of lung cancer. Regular checkups and screenings are often initiated by primary care physicians (PCPs). The physician-to-patient ratio in Northport, and the surrounding Tuscaloosa County, is a critical indicator of access. National averages provide a benchmark. A higher ratio (more patients per physician) can indicate potential challenges in timely appointments and comprehensive care.
Data from the US Department of Health & Human Services and state licensing boards are essential for calculating this ratio accurately. Publicly available data on the number of PCPs actively practicing within ZIP Code 35475 and the estimated population are crucial for this analysis. Furthermore, the availability of specialists, particularly pulmonologists and oncologists, within a reasonable radius (e.g., 30-mile drive) is a key factor. Proximity to the larger medical facilities in Tuscaloosa likely influences the availability of specialists.
**Standout Practices and Their Impact**
Identifying standout practices in Northport requires a deeper dive into their operational models and patient care approaches. These practices may excel in several areas. The integration of electronic health records (EHRs) is crucial for seamless information sharing between providers, which is particularly important in managing complex conditions like lung cancer. Practices that proactively utilize EHRs for patient reminders, screening recommendations, and communication demonstrate a commitment to preventative care.
Another factor is the practice's approach to patient education. Does the practice provide comprehensive information about lung cancer risk factors, symptoms, and screening options? Do they offer support groups or educational materials? The availability of these resources can significantly empower patients and improve their understanding of their health.
**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Role**
Telemedicine has become an increasingly important tool in healthcare, particularly in rural or underserved areas. Its adoption in Northport is a key element of the "Lung Cancer Score" assessment. Telemedicine can improve access to specialists, facilitate remote monitoring of patients, and provide convenient follow-up appointments.
The extent to which practices in Northport have embraced telemedicine technologies, such as video consultations, remote patient monitoring devices, and online patient portals, is a critical factor. The availability of telemedicine services, especially for pulmonology and oncology consultations, can significantly improve patient outcomes.
**Mental Health Resources: A Critical Component**
Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Access to mental health resources is therefore an essential component of a comprehensive care plan. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, within Northport and the surrounding areas is a significant factor in the "Lung Cancer Score."
The presence of support groups, counseling services, and mental health programs specifically tailored to cancer patients is also crucial. Practices that actively integrate mental health services into their care model demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care.
**Assessing the Score**
Based on the factors discussed above, a "Lung Cancer Score" for Northport can be derived. This score would be a composite measure reflecting the overall quality and accessibility of healthcare services related to lung cancer. The score would consider:
* **Primary Care Access:** Physician-to-patient ratio, appointment wait times, and the availability of PCPs accepting new patients.
* **Specialist Availability:** Proximity to pulmonologists and oncologists, and wait times for specialist appointments.
* **Practice Quality:** EHR integration, patient education resources, and patient satisfaction ratings.
* **Telemedicine Adoption:** Availability of telemedicine services for consultations, monitoring, and follow-up.
* **Mental Health Support:** Availability of mental health professionals, support groups, and counseling services.
Each factor would be weighted based on its relative importance to patient outcomes. The final score would provide a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare landscape in Northport, highlighting strengths and weaknesses in the context of lung cancer care.
**Conclusion**
The healthcare landscape in Northport, Alabama, presents both opportunities and challenges in the fight against lung cancer. While proximity to larger medical centers in Tuscaloosa offers access to specialists, the physician-to-patient ratio and the adoption of innovative technologies like telemedicine require careful evaluation. The availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of comprehensive patient care. Understanding these factors is vital for patients seeking quality healthcare.
**Call to Action**
For a more detailed visualization of the healthcare landscape in Northport, including the locations of healthcare providers, specialist availability, and other relevant data, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome provides powerful mapping tools that can help you navigate the healthcare system and make informed decisions about your health.
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