35972, Gallant, Alabama Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 35972, Gallant, Alabama is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.58 percent of the residents in 35972 has some form of health insurance. 53.96 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.12 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 35972 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 270 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35972. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 254 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 919 health care providers accessible to residents in 35972, Gallant, Alabama.

## Lung Cancer Score: A Gallant, Alabama (35972) Physician Landscape

Analyzing the medical landscape of Gallant, Alabama (ZIP code 35972) requires a multifaceted approach, particularly when evaluating the resources available for a serious condition like lung cancer. This analysis, framed as a “Lung Cancer Score,” considers factors impacting early detection, treatment access, and overall patient well-being. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare environment, specifically for individuals in Gallant, focusing on primary care and its interplay with lung cancer care.

The core of this assessment rests on the availability and accessibility of primary care physicians (PCPs). PCPs serve as the initial point of contact for healthcare, playing a crucial role in screening, diagnosis, and referral for lung cancer. A low physician-to-patient ratio can strain the system, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses and reduced access to preventative care. In Gallant, the physician-to-patient ratio must be carefully examined. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and state medical boards should be consulted to determine the number of active PCPs within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas. This number is then compared to the population of Gallant to calculate a ratio, providing a basic indicator of access.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Evaluating standout practices involves assessing several factors. The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) is crucial for seamless information sharing and care coordination. Practices utilizing EHRs with integrated decision support tools can improve screening rates and adherence to lung cancer guidelines. Furthermore, the availability of on-site diagnostic capabilities, such as X-ray machines, enhances convenience and speeds up the diagnostic process. Practices that actively participate in community health initiatives, promoting preventative care and early detection, should be highly valued.

Telemedicine has emerged as a vital tool, particularly in rural areas like Gallant. Its adoption can significantly improve access to specialists, including pulmonologists and oncologists, who may not be readily available locally. The Lung Cancer Score considers the extent to which PCPs in Gallant utilize telemedicine for consultations, follow-up appointments, and patient education. Practices offering virtual visits, remote monitoring capabilities, and access to online patient portals receive higher scores. The availability of reliable internet infrastructure in the area directly impacts the effectiveness of telemedicine.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of lung cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The Lung Cancer Score evaluates the availability of mental health services within the Gallant community. This includes the presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed counselors, and their integration into the primary care setting. Practices that offer on-site mental health services or have established referral pathways for mental health support receive higher scores. The availability of support groups and patient education programs also contributes to a more comprehensive score.

The location of specialized care facilities is another critical consideration. While Gallant may not have a dedicated cancer center, the proximity to hospitals and cancer treatment facilities in nearby cities, such as Gadsden or Birmingham, is essential. The Lung Cancer Score assesses the travel time and ease of access to these facilities. Factors such as transportation options, the availability of patient navigation services, and the presence of specialized lung cancer treatment programs (e.g., radiation therapy, chemotherapy) are considered.

Furthermore, the Lung Cancer Score takes into account the availability of resources for smoking cessation. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and effective cessation programs are crucial for prevention. The score evaluates the availability of smoking cessation counseling, nicotine replacement therapy, and other support services offered by PCPs and other healthcare providers in the area. Practices actively promoting smoking cessation receive higher scores.

The presence of community health initiatives aimed at raising awareness about lung cancer is another positive indicator. These initiatives can include educational campaigns, free screening events, and partnerships with local organizations. The Lung Cancer Score rewards practices that actively participate in such initiatives.

Data collection for this analysis involves several steps. Publicly available data sources, such as the U.S. Census Bureau, the HRSA, and state medical boards, provide information on population demographics, physician distribution, and healthcare facility locations. Practice websites, patient reviews, and interviews with healthcare professionals can provide insights into the quality of care, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. The collection of data must be done meticulously to ensure accuracy and reliability.

The Lung Cancer Score is not a static measure. It is intended to be a dynamic assessment that reflects the evolving healthcare landscape. Regular updates and revisions are necessary to account for changes in physician availability, technological advancements, and the implementation of new healthcare initiatives.

In conclusion, understanding the healthcare landscape of Gallant, Alabama, is crucial for individuals concerned about lung cancer. The Lung Cancer Score provides a framework for evaluating the availability of primary care, the quality of services, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. This comprehensive assessment, while requiring further investigation, offers a valuable starting point for making informed decisions about healthcare in the Gallant community.

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