36006, Billingsley, Alabama Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 36006, Billingsley, Alabama is 13 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.38 percent of the residents in 36006 has some form of health insurance. 32.52 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.94 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 36006 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 337 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36006. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 412 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 39 health care providers accessible to residents in 36006, Billingsley, Alabama.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 36006 & Billingsley Primary Care

This analysis provides a nuanced understanding of healthcare resources relevant to lung cancer prevention, detection, and treatment within ZIP Code 36006 (likely encompassing the Billingsley, Alabama area) and specifically examines primary care availability in Billingsley. The focus is on evaluating factors that contribute to a "Lung Cancer Score," considering physician access, resource utilization, and the integration of modern healthcare practices. This score is not a numerical rating but rather a qualitative assessment based on the available data, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement.

The foundation of a strong Lung Cancer Score rests on robust primary care. Billingsley's primary care availability is a critical starting point. A limited number of primary care physicians (PCPs) can create significant barriers. Long wait times for appointments, difficulty establishing a patient-physician relationship, and a lack of proactive screening initiatives all negatively impact early detection, a crucial factor in lung cancer survival rates. A high PCP-to-patient ratio is a red flag, potentially indicating an overburdened system. Conversely, a readily accessible primary care network, ideally with a diverse range of providers (family medicine, internal medicine), significantly boosts the score.

Within ZIP Code 36006, the distribution of specialists is another key element. The presence of pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons is vital. The proximity of these specialists, and the ease with which patients can access them, directly impacts the speed and effectiveness of diagnosis and treatment. The Lung Cancer Score benefits from a well-coordinated network of specialists, where PCPs can seamlessly refer patients for further evaluation. The absence of these specialists, or a reliance on referrals to distant facilities, diminishes the score, potentially leading to delays in care.

Beyond the physical presence of healthcare professionals, the adoption of telemedicine plays a crucial role. Telemedicine offers several advantages, especially in rural areas like Billingsley. It can improve access to specialists who may not be physically present in the community. Telehealth consultations for follow-up appointments, medication management, and even initial consultations can alleviate the burden on patients and reduce travel time. Practices that actively utilize telemedicine, particularly for lung cancer screening and management, receive a higher score. Conversely, a lack of telemedicine infrastructure or adoption negatively impacts the overall assessment.

Another significant factor is the availability of mental health resources. A lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be incredibly stressful, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The presence of mental health professionals (therapists, counselors, psychiatrists) within the community or readily accessible through referrals is crucial. Practices that actively integrate mental health support into their care plans, perhaps through in-house counselors or partnerships with mental health providers, enhance the Lung Cancer Score. The absence of such resources is a significant detriment, potentially hindering patient well-being and treatment adherence.

Examining specific practices within ZIP Code 36006 is essential. The "standout practices" are those that demonstrate a proactive approach to lung cancer care. This includes implementing evidence-based screening protocols (e.g., low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals), providing patient education on risk factors (smoking cessation programs, environmental hazards), and actively participating in community outreach initiatives. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to data-driven decision-making, tracking patient outcomes, and continuously improving their services, receive a higher score. Those that lag behind in these areas will see a lower score.

The integration of technology beyond telemedicine is also important. Electronic health records (EHRs) that allow for seamless information sharing between providers, patient portals that empower patients to manage their care, and the use of data analytics to identify high-risk individuals are all positive indicators. Practices that embrace these technologies are better positioned to provide coordinated, efficient, and patient-centered care, thus improving the Lung Cancer Score.

The social determinants of health (SDOH) must also be considered. These factors, such as socioeconomic status, access to transportation, and housing stability, can significantly impact a patient's ability to access and adhere to treatment. Practices that are aware of and actively address SDOH challenges, perhaps through partnerships with community organizations or providing assistance with transportation, receive a higher score. Ignoring these factors, on the other hand, can lead to disparities in care and lower the overall score.

In conclusion, the Lung Cancer Score for ZIP Code 36006 and Billingsley primary care is a complex assessment. It reflects the interplay of physician availability, specialist access, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the proactive approach of individual practices. The availability of primary care, the presence of specialists, and the integration of technology are crucial factors. A strong score indicates a community well-equipped to detect, diagnose, and treat lung cancer effectively, while a weaker score highlights areas for improvement.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in ZIP Code 36006 and beyond, and to identify potential areas for improvement in lung cancer care, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. Their interactive visualizations can provide valuable insights into physician distribution, resource availability, and population demographics.