35543, Bear Creek, Alabama Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 35543, Bear Creek, Alabama is 13 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.15 percent of the residents in 35543 has some form of health insurance. 61.69 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 34.20 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 35543 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 436 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35543. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 211 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 307 health care providers accessible to residents in 35543, Bear Creek, Alabama.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 35543 and Primary Care in Bear Creek

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of healthcare resources relevant to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support within ZIP Code 35543, specifically focusing on the town of Bear Creek, Alabama. The goal is to assess the landscape for primary care access, a crucial factor in early detection and management of this devastating disease. We will evaluate physician-to-patient ratios, identify standout practices, explore telemedicine adoption, and examine the availability of mental health resources, all contributing to a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" assessment.

Bear Creek, a small community in Winston County, likely faces challenges common to rural areas: limited access to specialized medical care and potential shortages of primary care physicians. A robust primary care network is vital for early detection through screenings and prompt referrals to specialists. The “Lung Cancer Score” considers the overall health infrastructure, aiming to highlight strengths and weaknesses that impact a patient's journey.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator of access. National averages suggest a baseline for adequate care. However, rural areas frequently struggle to meet these benchmarks. The analysis will seek to determine the ratio of primary care physicians to the population within ZIP Code 35543, comparing it to county and state averages. A lower ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, would negatively impact the “Lung Cancer Score,” potentially leading to delayed diagnoses and treatment.

Identifying standout practices is another critical element. This involves evaluating the quality of care provided by existing primary care clinics and individual physicians. Factors considered include the availability of comprehensive services, such as smoking cessation programs, which are vital for prevention and management. The analysis will investigate whether local practices offer these services and how they integrate them into their care models. Patient reviews, if available, will also be examined to gauge patient satisfaction and the perceived quality of care.

Telemedicine adoption is a significant factor in overcoming geographical barriers and improving access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas. The “Lung Cancer Score” will assess the extent to which primary care providers in Bear Creek utilize telemedicine. This includes evaluating the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring of patients, and the use of digital tools for communication and information sharing. Telemedicine can improve access to specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, who might not be readily available locally.

The psychological impact of a lung cancer diagnosis is profound. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of the “Lung Cancer Score.” The analysis will investigate the presence of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, within the community or easily accessible to residents of Bear Creek. This includes assessing whether primary care practices offer integrated mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health providers. Access to support groups and other resources for patients and their families will also be considered.

The “Lung Cancer Score” will also consider the proximity to specialized care. The availability of pulmonologists, oncologists, and cancer treatment centers within a reasonable driving distance is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment. The analysis will identify the nearest facilities offering these specialized services and assess the ease of access for residents of Bear Creek. This includes evaluating transportation options and the potential impact of travel time on patient outcomes.

Furthermore, the analysis will examine the availability of diagnostic tools, such as CT scanners and other imaging equipment, within the local healthcare infrastructure. Early detection is crucial in lung cancer, and access to these diagnostic tools can significantly improve patient outcomes. The “Lung Cancer Score” will reflect the presence and accessibility of these critical resources.

The overall “Lung Cancer Score” for Bear Creek, Alabama, will be a composite of these factors. A high score indicates a robust healthcare infrastructure that supports early detection, timely treatment, and comprehensive patient support. A low score indicates potential challenges in accessing care, which could negatively impact patient outcomes. The score will not only reflect the current state of healthcare in the area but also highlight areas for improvement.

The analysis will aim to provide actionable insights for healthcare providers, policymakers, and residents of Bear Creek. It can inform efforts to improve access to care, expand services, and address the specific needs of patients facing lung cancer. This might include advocating for the recruitment of more primary care physicians, expanding telemedicine capabilities, or increasing access to mental health resources.

The findings will be presented in a clear and concise manner, highlighting both strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system. The analysis will provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape in Bear Creek, focusing on factors that directly impact the diagnosis, treatment, and support of individuals affected by lung cancer. The ultimate goal is to provide a valuable resource for the community and contribute to improving patient outcomes.

The data gathered will be used to create a visual representation of the healthcare landscape.

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