35572, Houston, Alabama Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 35572, Houston, Alabama is 6 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.71 percent of the residents in 35572 has some form of health insurance. 28.54 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.37 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 35572 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 126 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35572. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 347 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 55 health care providers accessible to residents in 35572, Houston, Alabama.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 35572 & Primary Care in Houston

This analysis provides a comparative assessment of healthcare resources relevant to lung cancer care, focusing on two distinct geographical areas: doctors practicing within ZIP code 35572 (a hypothetical location for this exercise) and the primary care landscape in Houston, Texas. The evaluation considers factors influencing access to care, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. This "Lung Cancer Score" is not a formal, standardized metric, but rather a qualitative assessment based on available data and hypothetical scenarios.

**ZIP Code 35572: A Hypothetical Scenario**

Let's assume ZIP code 35572 represents a rural or underserved area. The primary concern in this context would be access to primary care physicians (PCPs). A low PCP-to-patient ratio would significantly impact early detection and management of lung cancer. Without readily available primary care, individuals may delay seeking medical attention for concerning symptoms, leading to later-stage diagnoses and poorer prognoses. The score for this area would be heavily influenced by the estimated physician density.

The presence of specialists, particularly pulmonologists and oncologists, is crucial. A high score would be awarded if specialists are available locally or within a reasonable driving distance. The absence of these specialists necessitates travel for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care, adding logistical and financial burdens for patients. Furthermore, the availability of diagnostic imaging, such as CT scans and PET scans, within the ZIP code or nearby is essential. Delays in obtaining these crucial tests can negatively impact treatment outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption could significantly improve the score. If primary care practices and specialists utilize telehealth platforms for consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring, it can bridge geographical barriers and improve access to care. This is especially important in rural settings where transportation can be a challenge. The availability of mental health resources is also critical. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating. The presence of counselors, therapists, and support groups specifically addressing the needs of cancer patients and their families would positively influence the score.

Standout practices within ZIP code 35572, if any, would be those demonstrating a commitment to patient-centered care. This includes practices with extended hours, convenient appointment scheduling, and a focus on patient education and support. Practices actively participating in lung cancer screening programs, such as those recommended for high-risk individuals, would also receive high marks. The overall score for this hypothetical ZIP code would likely be lower compared to an urban area due to the potential challenges in resource availability.

**Primary Care Availability in Houston, Texas**

Houston, as a major metropolitan area, presents a different healthcare landscape. While the overall physician-to-patient ratio is likely higher than in ZIP code 35572, variations exist across different neighborhoods and socioeconomic demographics. The score for Houston would be influenced by the equitable distribution of primary care physicians across the city. Areas with physician shortages would receive lower scores.

The presence of large healthcare systems, such as the Texas Medical Center, would significantly boost the score. These systems typically offer a comprehensive range of services, including primary care, specialized cancer care, advanced diagnostic imaging, and clinical trials. The availability of these resources within a single healthcare network streamlines the patient journey and improves coordination of care.

The adoption of telemedicine is also a key factor in Houston. Given the city's size and traffic congestion, telehealth can improve access to care and reduce the burden of travel for patients. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals would receive higher scores.

Houston's diverse population necessitates a focus on cultural competency in healthcare. Practices that provide services in multiple languages and are sensitive to the cultural needs of their patients would be highly regarded. This is particularly important in lung cancer care, where communication and understanding are critical for patient adherence to treatment plans.

Mental health resources are crucial in Houston. The availability of oncology-specific mental health services, support groups, and counseling services is essential for patients navigating the emotional challenges of a lung cancer diagnosis. Practices that integrate mental health services into their cancer care programs would receive higher scores.

Standout practices in Houston would be those demonstrating innovation and a commitment to excellence in lung cancer care. This includes practices that participate in clinical trials, offer advanced treatment options, and prioritize patient-centered care. Practices that actively promote lung cancer screening programs and provide comprehensive patient education would also be highly regarded. The overall score for Houston would likely be higher than that of the hypothetical ZIP code due to the greater availability of resources and specialized care.

**Comparative Analysis and Conclusion**

The comparative analysis highlights the stark differences in healthcare access and resource availability between a hypothetical rural area (ZIP code 35572) and a major metropolitan area (Houston). While Houston benefits from a higher concentration of specialists, advanced technology, and comprehensive healthcare systems, challenges remain in ensuring equitable access to care across all neighborhoods. The hypothetical ZIP code, on the other hand, faces significant challenges in physician shortages and limited access to specialized care, emphasizing the importance of innovative solutions like telemedicine and community-based healthcare initiatives.

This analysis provides a framework for understanding the factors that influence lung cancer care access. To gain deeper insights into specific physician locations, healthcare facilities, and resource distributions, consider using CartoChrome maps. These maps can visually represent the geographical distribution of healthcare providers, patient populations, and other relevant data points, enabling a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape.