35490, Vance, Alabama Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 35490, Vance, Alabama is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.25 percent of the residents in 35490 has some form of health insurance. 28.08 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.26 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 35490 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,105 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35490. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 661 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 285 health care providers accessible to residents in 35490, Vance, Alabama.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Vance, Alabama (ZIP Code 35490)

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for physicians within the 35490 ZIP code, focusing on factors relevant to early detection, treatment access, and overall patient support. The assessment considers primary care availability in Vance, Alabama, a critical component of proactive lung cancer screening and management. The goal is to offer insights into the local healthcare landscape, highlighting strengths and areas for improvement.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in robust primary care. Early detection significantly improves survival rates. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) directly impacts the likelihood of timely screenings and interventions. Analyzing the physician-to-patient ratio in Vance is essential. A low ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per resident, could present challenges. Patients may experience difficulties securing appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings like low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for those at high risk. This delay can negatively affect prognosis.

Within the 35490 ZIP code, we need to examine the existing primary care practices. Are there enough PCPs to meet the needs of the population? Are these practices accepting new patients? What is the average wait time for appointments? These factors influence the accessibility of care. Practices that prioritize patient access and offer convenient appointment scheduling contribute positively to the Lung Cancer Score. Conversely, practices with long wait times or limited availability could detract from the score.

Beyond simple availability, the quality of care provided by these primary care practices is paramount. This involves assessing their commitment to preventative care, including offering smoking cessation programs and educating patients about lung cancer risks. Do these practices actively encourage LDCT screening for eligible patients? Do they have clear protocols for referring patients to specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, if a suspicious finding is detected? Practices demonstrating a proactive approach to lung cancer prevention and early detection receive a higher score.

Telemedicine adoption plays a significant role in modern healthcare delivery. The ability to conduct virtual consultations offers several advantages, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Telemedicine can facilitate follow-up appointments, medication management, and access to specialists. Practices actively utilizing telemedicine technologies, especially for lung cancer-related care, will receive a favorable score. This technology enhances access to care and improves patient convenience.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked aspect of cancer care, but it is crucial. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating. Patients often experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through referrals is a critical factor. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through in-house therapists or established referral networks, contribute significantly to a higher Lung Cancer Score. This support addresses the holistic needs of patients.

Identifying standout practices within the 35490 ZIP code is essential. These practices often serve as models for best practices in lung cancer care. They may demonstrate exceptional patient access, proactive screening protocols, and a strong commitment to patient education and support. These practices might offer specialized services, such as smoking cessation programs or dedicated lung cancer navigators. Highlighting these practices provides valuable information for patients seeking quality care.

The Lung Cancer Score is also influenced by the availability of specialists. The presence of pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons within a reasonable distance is crucial for providing comprehensive care. Easy access to these specialists ensures that patients receive timely diagnoses, appropriate treatment plans, and ongoing support. The proximity and availability of these specialists contribute to a higher score.

The overall infrastructure supporting lung cancer care in Vance contributes to the score. This includes the availability of diagnostic imaging services, such as CT scanners, and the presence of radiation therapy facilities. Access to these resources is essential for effective treatment. The efficiency of the referral process from primary care to specialists and diagnostic services also plays a role. A streamlined process ensures patients receive the care they need promptly.

The analysis of the 35490 ZIP code and primary care availability in Vance must consider any disparities in care. Are there specific populations that face barriers to accessing care? This could include individuals with limited financial resources, those lacking transportation, or those from underserved communities. Addressing these disparities is critical for ensuring equitable access to lung cancer screening and treatment. Practices that actively work to overcome these barriers will receive a positive score.

In conclusion, the Lung Cancer Score for physicians in the 35490 ZIP code and the primary care landscape in Vance is a complex assessment. It encompasses physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of primary care, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and access to specialists and diagnostic services. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare environment, highlighting strengths and areas for improvement. This analysis serves as a starting point for patients seeking quality lung cancer care in the Vance area.

To visualize and explore the healthcare landscape of Vance, Alabama, and gain a deeper understanding of the factors impacting the Lung Cancer Score, we encourage you to use CartoChrome maps. These maps provide interactive visualizations of healthcare data, allowing you to explore physician locations, access to care, and other relevant information.