35634, Florence, Alabama Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 35634, Florence, Alabama is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.85 percent of the residents in 35634 has some form of health insurance. 36.32 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 77.78 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 35634 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,110 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35634. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,674 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,006 health care providers accessible to residents in 35634, Florence, Alabama.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Florence, Alabama (ZIP Code 35634)

This analysis evaluates the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP Code 35634 (Florence, Alabama) and assesses primary care availability in the broader Florence area, focusing on factors relevant to a patient's journey from screening to treatment and survivorship. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the resources available and identify potential areas for improvement. The analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in a comprehensive approach to lung cancer care.

The initial step involves assessing the physician-to-patient ratio for primary care physicians (PCPs) within the Florence area. A healthy PCP-to-patient ratio is vital for ensuring timely access to preventative care, including lung cancer screenings. High ratios, indicating a shortage of PCPs, can lead to delayed appointments, hindering early detection and potentially impacting treatment outcomes. Researching the current ratio requires examining data from sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and the Alabama Department of Public Health. This data will be compared to national averages to determine if Florence has adequate PCP coverage.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality and accessibility of primary care are paramount. This includes evaluating the availability of same-day or next-day appointments, the acceptance of various insurance plans, and the presence of after-hours care options. The presence of patient portals and electronic health record (EHR) systems, facilitating seamless communication and information sharing, are also considered. The analysis will also look at the PCP's willingness to order lung cancer screenings for at-risk patients.

The analysis then shifts to identifying standout practices within the Florence area. This involves examining the practices of pulmonologists, oncologists, and surgeons. Key indicators include board certifications, years of experience, patient satisfaction scores (gleaned from online reviews and surveys), and the availability of advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies. Practices with a multidisciplinary approach, involving collaboration between specialists, are particularly valuable. Such practices can offer a more comprehensive and coordinated approach to patient care, improving outcomes.

The availability of advanced diagnostic tools is a critical factor. The presence of high-resolution CT scanners, capable of detecting small lung nodules, is essential for early detection. The availability of bronchoscopy and other minimally invasive procedures is also assessed. Furthermore, access to advanced treatment options, such as targeted therapies, immunotherapy, and radiation therapy, is crucial for patients diagnosed with lung cancer.

Telemedicine adoption is another key area of focus. The use of telemedicine can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas or those with mobility issues. The analysis will investigate the extent to which local practices offer telehealth consultations for follow-up appointments, medication management, and even initial consultations. Telemedicine can also facilitate access to specialists who may not be readily available in Florence.

Mental health resources are often overlooked, but they are a critical component of comprehensive cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. The analysis will evaluate the availability of mental health services within the Florence area, including access to therapists, counselors, and support groups. Ideally, these services should be integrated into the cancer care pathway, ensuring that patients receive the support they need to cope with the challenges of their illness.

The presence of support groups, both in-person and online, is also assessed. These groups provide a valuable opportunity for patients to connect with others who understand their experiences, offering emotional support and practical advice. The analysis will also examine the availability of patient navigation services, which can help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, coordinating appointments, and providing access to resources.

The analysis also considers the availability of palliative care services. Palliative care focuses on improving the quality of life for patients with serious illnesses, providing symptom management, and emotional support. Access to palliative care can significantly improve the patient's experience and outcomes.

The final element of the analysis involves a broader assessment of the healthcare ecosystem in Florence. This includes evaluating the presence of cancer centers, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities. The analysis will also consider the level of collaboration between these facilities, ensuring that patients have access to a seamless continuum of care.

The analysis will synthesize all the collected data to arrive at a "Lung Cancer Score" for Florence, Alabama. This score will reflect the overall quality and accessibility of lung cancer care within the area. The score will be based on a weighted average of the factors discussed above, with each factor assigned a weight based on its relative importance.

The "Lung Cancer Score" will be presented in a clear and concise manner, providing a snapshot of the current state of lung cancer care in Florence. The analysis will also identify areas for improvement, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system. This information can be used to inform patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers, driving positive change and improving outcomes for individuals affected by lung cancer. The analysis will also consider the impact of socioeconomic factors on access to care, ensuring that the assessment is comprehensive and equitable.

The analysis will conclude with actionable recommendations for improving lung cancer care in Florence. These recommendations may include suggestions for increasing the number of PCPs, expanding access to telemedicine, improving mental health services, and promoting collaboration between healthcare providers. The goal is to create a roadmap for improving the overall quality and accessibility of lung cancer care in the Florence area.

Finally, this analysis is meant to be a starting point. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. The data used in this analysis is subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, and to visualize the healthcare landscape of Florence, Alabama, including the location of doctors, hospitals, and other relevant resources, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps.