35961, Collinsville, Alabama Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 35961, Collinsville, Alabama is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 79.00 percent of the residents in 35961 has some form of health insurance. 39.89 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 47.74 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 35961 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,660 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35961. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 850 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,495 health care providers accessible to residents in 35961, Collinsville, Alabama.

The analysis below assesses the quality of lung cancer care and primary care accessibility in Collinsville, Alabama (ZIP Code 35961), focusing on key indicators relevant to patient outcomes. This evaluation considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources, aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape.

Collinsville, a small town in DeKalb County, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The rural setting often translates to fewer healthcare providers and longer travel distances for patients. The success of lung cancer treatment and overall primary care hinges on the availability of qualified physicians, efficient practice operations, and readily accessible support services.

Physician-to-patient ratios in 35961 are a critical starting point. A lower ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can strain the existing healthcare infrastructure. This can result in longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) should be consulted to determine the precise physician-to-patient ratio within this specific ZIP code. This ratio should be compared to state and national averages to gauge the relative availability of care.

Standout practices in Collinsville deserve recognition. These practices demonstrate a commitment to providing high-quality care, potentially through advanced diagnostic equipment, specialized medical expertise, and a patient-centered approach. Identifying these practices requires a multi-faceted approach. Reviewing patient testimonials, analyzing online reviews, and examining the types of services offered are essential steps. Practices that actively participate in community outreach programs or provide educational materials about lung cancer prevention and early detection also warrant consideration.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine offers a way to bridge geographical barriers, enabling patients to consult with specialists remotely, receive follow-up care, and access educational resources. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can provide more convenient and accessible care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those living far from medical centers. The availability of telehealth services for lung cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment follow-up is a significant indicator of healthcare accessibility.

Mental health resources are an integral part of comprehensive cancer care. Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being. Access to mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and counselors, is crucial for addressing anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care model, either through on-site providers or referrals to external resources, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. Assessing the availability of these resources in 35961 is essential.

The analysis also considers the availability of specialists. While primary care physicians are the first point of contact for most patients, access to pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons is vital for diagnosing and treating lung cancer. The proximity of these specialists to Collinsville, and the ease with which patients can be referred to them, are crucial factors. The presence of support groups and patient navigation services can also enhance the patient experience.

Early detection is paramount in lung cancer treatment. The availability of lung cancer screening programs, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, is a key indicator of healthcare quality. Practices that actively promote screening for high-risk individuals, based on established guidelines, demonstrate a proactive approach to early detection and treatment. The accessibility of these screening services within the community is a critical factor.

The quality of care also depends on the coordination between different healthcare providers. Practices that have implemented electronic health records (EHRs) and utilize them effectively to share patient information among different specialists can improve the efficiency and effectiveness of care. This streamlined communication can reduce the risk of medical errors and ensure that patients receive the best possible treatment.

The evaluation of lung cancer care and primary care availability in 35961 must also consider the socioeconomic factors affecting the community. Poverty, lack of insurance, and limited access to transportation can all create barriers to healthcare access. Practices that are sensitive to these factors and offer financial assistance programs or transportation support can improve the overall health outcomes of the community.

The availability of educational resources for patients and their families is another important aspect of care. Practices that provide information about lung cancer prevention, early detection, treatment options, and support services empower patients to make informed decisions about their health. This includes offering educational materials in multiple languages, if necessary, to accommodate the diverse needs of the community.

Finally, the analysis must consider the overall patient experience. This includes factors such as wait times for appointments, the friendliness and helpfulness of staff, and the ease with which patients can navigate the healthcare system. Practices that prioritize patient satisfaction and actively seek feedback from patients are more likely to provide high-quality care.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Collinsville (35961) and visualize the data, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. CartoChrome allows for visualizing the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, identifying areas with limited access, and gaining insights into community health needs.