35987, Steele, Alabama Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 35987, Steele, Alabama is 12 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.83 percent of the residents in 35987 has some form of health insurance. 29.76 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.93 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 35987 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 663 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35987. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 517 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 622 health care providers accessible to residents in 35987, Steele, Alabama.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Steele, Alabama (ZIP Code 35987)

This analysis delves into the landscape of healthcare resources available in and around Steele, Alabama (ZIP Code 35987), focusing on factors pertinent to lung cancer prevention, detection, and treatment. The aim is to provide an informed perspective on the quality and accessibility of care, specifically considering the availability of primary care physicians and their ability to address the needs of patients, particularly those at risk or affected by lung cancer. This evaluation will consider physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components of a comprehensive healthcare system.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on accessible primary care. Early detection through regular screenings, facilitated by a strong primary care network, significantly improves patient outcomes. In Steele, the availability of primary care physicians is a critical factor. While precise physician-to-patient ratios require up-to-the-minute data, publicly available resources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) can provide a general understanding of physician density. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of physicians relative to the population, could pose a significant challenge, potentially leading to delayed appointments, limited access to preventative care, and overall poorer health outcomes. This shortage would place a strain on the existing primary care physicians, potentially impacting their ability to thoroughly assess patients and provide the necessary attention for those at risk of lung cancer.

Assessing the quality of primary care extends beyond mere numbers. Identifying standout practices within the 35987 ZIP code is essential. These practices might be recognized for their commitment to preventative care, their use of advanced diagnostic tools, or their patient-centered approach. Practices that actively promote smoking cessation programs, offer comprehensive lung cancer screening protocols, and demonstrate a commitment to patient education would score highly. Researching online reviews, consulting with local health organizations, and potentially contacting the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners can help identify practices with a strong reputation and a demonstrated focus on patient well-being.

Telemedicine adoption presents another crucial element of the healthcare landscape. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and access to specialists can significantly enhance the reach and accessibility of care, especially in rural areas like Steele. Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for lung cancer patients, allowing for follow-up appointments, symptom management, and access to support groups without the need for frequent travel. Practices that have embraced telemedicine technologies demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and a willingness to adapt to evolving healthcare models. The presence of telemedicine capabilities can significantly improve the Lung Cancer Score for the area.

Furthermore, the analysis must consider the availability of mental health resources. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Access to mental health professionals, support groups, and counseling services is vital for patients' overall well-being and their ability to cope with the disease and its treatment. The presence of mental health services within the primary care practices or readily accessible through referrals is a significant indicator of a comprehensive healthcare system. The availability of these resources directly impacts the quality of care and the patient's ability to navigate the challenges of lung cancer.

The evaluation of the Lung Cancer Score for Steele, Alabama, necessitates a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare infrastructure. This includes not only the number of physicians but also the quality of care provided, the adoption of innovative technologies like telemedicine, and the availability of essential support services such as mental health resources. A high Lung Cancer Score would reflect a robust primary care network with a high physician-to-patient ratio, practices that prioritize preventative care and early detection, the integration of telemedicine to improve access, and readily available mental health support.

Conversely, a low Lung Cancer Score would indicate challenges in these areas, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses, limited access to treatment, and poorer patient outcomes. The analysis must consider the presence of any specialized lung cancer clinics or partnerships with larger medical centers that can provide advanced care options. The availability of these resources would significantly impact the overall score.

The analysis would also consider the presence of community outreach programs, such as those focused on smoking cessation or lung cancer awareness campaigns. These programs play a vital role in educating the public about risk factors, early detection methods, and available resources. Their presence would positively influence the Lung Cancer Score, demonstrating a commitment to proactive healthcare and community well-being.

Moreover, the analysis should acknowledge the potential impact of socioeconomic factors on healthcare access and outcomes. Factors such as income levels, insurance coverage rates, and access to transportation can significantly affect a patient's ability to receive timely and appropriate care. The analysis should consider these factors and their potential influence on the Lung Cancer Score.

In conclusion, the Lung Cancer Score for Steele, Alabama, is a multifaceted assessment that requires a detailed understanding of the local healthcare landscape. It is a dynamic measure influenced by physician availability, the quality of primary care, the adoption of technology, the availability of mental health resources, and community outreach efforts. It is a valuable tool for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system and for identifying areas where improvements can be made to enhance the health and well-being of the community, particularly for those at risk of or affected by lung cancer.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Steele, Alabama, and to explore the distribution of healthcare resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful way to visualize data, identify potential gaps in care, and gain a deeper understanding of the local healthcare environment. Explore the possibilities today.