35980, Horton, Alabama Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 35980, Horton, Alabama is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.79 percent of the residents in 35980 has some form of health insurance. 40.77 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.93 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 35980 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,960 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35980. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 765 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,192 health care providers accessible to residents in 35980, Horton, Alabama.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 35980 & Horton Primary Care**

Analyzing healthcare access and quality, especially concerning lung cancer, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on ZIP code 35980, encompassing Horton, Alabama, evaluating primary care availability and related factors impacting lung cancer care. This analysis doesn't provide medical advice.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on robust primary care. Early detection through screening and prompt referral to specialists are crucial. In Horton, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical indicator. Physician-to-patient ratios, a fundamental metric, provide a preliminary understanding. A high ratio (fewer physicians per capita) can indicate limited access, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests better access, although other factors, like insurance coverage and appointment availability, must also be considered.

Horton's primary care landscape is shaped by several factors. The presence of established clinics and individual practices is essential. The reputation of these practices, gleaned from patient reviews and community feedback, offers insights into the quality of care. Are physicians known for thoroughness, patient communication, and proactive screening? Are they well-versed in the latest lung cancer guidelines?

Standout practices, those demonstrating excellence in patient care, can significantly impact the community's overall health. Identifying practices with a focus on preventative care, including smoking cessation programs and lung cancer screening protocols, is vital. These practices often have streamlined referral processes, ensuring patients receive timely specialist consultations. The presence of certified lung cancer specialists within the immediate vicinity is another critical factor. Proximity to pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons directly influences the speed and efficiency of diagnosis and treatment.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly relevant, particularly in rural areas like Horton. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, enabling patients to consult with specialists remotely. This is especially beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and access to specialists who may not be readily available locally. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services offered by local practices is crucial. Are physicians equipped with the technology and training to provide virtual consultations? Do they utilize secure platforms to protect patient data?

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of lung cancer care. A cancer diagnosis can trigger significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and fear. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, is essential to support patients through their journey. Do local primary care practices offer on-site counseling services or have established referral networks with mental health providers? Are there support groups available for lung cancer patients and their families?

The infrastructure supporting lung cancer care extends beyond individual practices. The presence of a local hospital with advanced diagnostic capabilities, such as CT scanners and bronchoscopy units, is essential for timely diagnosis. The availability of chemotherapy and radiation therapy services within a reasonable distance is also crucial. The quality of these facilities, as measured by patient outcomes and accreditations, significantly impacts the overall standard of care.

Insurance coverage plays a significant role in access to care. The percentage of the population with health insurance, including Medicare and Medicaid, directly influences the ability of individuals to access screening, diagnosis, and treatment. The acceptance of various insurance plans by local practices is another factor to consider. Are there any disparities in access based on insurance type?

Community awareness and education are vital for promoting early detection and prevention. Public health initiatives, such as smoking cessation programs and lung cancer screening awareness campaigns, can significantly impact outcomes. Are there any local organizations actively promoting lung cancer awareness? Are there educational resources available to the community?

Analyzing the specific practices within ZIP code 35980 involves detailed research. Investigating the number of PCPs, their specialties, their affiliations with hospitals, and their telemedicine capabilities is essential. Examining patient reviews and feedback provides valuable insights into the quality of care. Assessing the availability of mental health resources and support groups is crucial.

Furthermore, the proximity to specialist care is a critical factor. The distance to pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons can significantly impact treatment timelines. The availability of advanced diagnostic and treatment facilities, such as CT scanners, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, is another essential consideration.

In conclusion, a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP code 35980 and Horton's primary care availability requires a multi-faceted evaluation. It necessitates assessing physician-to-patient ratios, evaluating the quality of individual practices, examining telemedicine adoption, assessing mental health resources, and considering the availability of advanced diagnostic and treatment facilities. Public health initiatives and community awareness also play a significant role.

For a visual representation of these factors, including geographical mapping of physician locations, hospital locations, and other relevant data points, explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome can provide a comprehensive, interactive view of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 35980 and beyond.