36116, Montgomery, Alabama Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 36116, Montgomery, Alabama is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.70 percent of the residents in 36116 has some form of health insurance. 40.88 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.75 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 36116 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 12,200 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36116. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,222 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,199 health care providers accessible to residents in 36116, Montgomery, Alabama.

The analysis below provides an overview of factors relevant to lung cancer care within ZIP code 36116 in Montgomery, Alabama, focusing on primary care physician availability and related resources. This is not a formal medical assessment, but a general overview based on publicly available information.

Understanding the landscape of healthcare access is crucial when considering a diagnosis like lung cancer. Early detection and prompt, appropriate treatment significantly improve patient outcomes. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) serves as a critical first point of contact, facilitating screening, diagnosis, and referrals to specialists.

In ZIP code 36116, the physician-to-patient ratio is a key indicator of accessibility. Publicly available data, such as that from the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA), provides estimates of the number of PCPs per population segment. A lower ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments and reduced access to preventative care, including lung cancer screenings. Conversely, a higher ratio generally suggests greater ease of access. Specific numbers for this ZIP code are difficult to determine without access to proprietary databases.

The overall primary care availability in Montgomery, Alabama, impacts the ability of individuals in 36116 to receive timely care. County-wide data, again from sources like HRSA, can provide a broader picture of physician distribution. Examining these figures helps assess the overall healthcare environment. Factors such as the number of specialists, the presence of hospitals with oncology departments, and the availability of diagnostic imaging equipment (CT scanners, for example) are all relevant.

Standout practices within the 36116 ZIP code may demonstrate excellence in patient care, potentially offering better outcomes. These practices might be recognized for their patient satisfaction scores, their adoption of evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening, or their commitment to preventative care. Researching online reviews, consulting with local healthcare providers, and contacting the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners can provide insights into the reputation and quality of care offered by specific practices.

Telemedicine adoption is a growing trend in healthcare, and its presence can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients who may have mobility limitations or live in areas with limited physical access to healthcare facilities. Telemedicine allows for virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and the delivery of educational resources. The extent to which practices in 36116 have embraced telemedicine, including its use for follow-up appointments, medication management, and even some forms of initial consultations, is a critical factor to consider. Examining practice websites, contacting providers directly, and reviewing patient feedback can reveal the level of telemedicine integration.

The availability of mental health resources is also crucial. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally challenging, and access to counseling, support groups, and psychiatric services is essential for patient well-being. The presence of mental health professionals within primary care practices or readily accessible referral networks is an important indicator of comprehensive care. Researching local mental health providers, checking practice websites for information about mental health services, and contacting local support organizations can provide insights into the availability of these resources.

The presence of a robust network of specialists is another crucial factor. Lung cancer treatment often involves a multidisciplinary approach, including pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, and radiation therapists. The proximity of these specialists, and the ease with which PCPs can refer patients to them, is critical for timely diagnosis and treatment. Examining the affiliations of local hospitals, searching online directories of specialists, and inquiring with PCPs about their referral networks can provide information about the availability of specialized care.

Furthermore, the adoption of advanced diagnostic technologies is important. Lung cancer screening using low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) is recommended for high-risk individuals. The availability of LDCT scanners in the 36116 ZIP code and surrounding areas is a key factor in ensuring access to early detection. Researching local hospitals and imaging centers, and inquiring with PCPs about their screening protocols, can provide information about the availability of these technologies.

The integration of patient navigation services is another element of high-quality lung cancer care. Patient navigators help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, coordinating appointments, providing education, and offering emotional support. The presence of patient navigation services within local hospitals or cancer centers can significantly improve patient outcomes. Inquiring with local hospitals and cancer centers about their patient navigation programs can provide information about the availability of these services.

The role of community outreach and education should not be overlooked. Practices that actively engage in community outreach, such as offering free screenings, providing educational materials, and participating in health fairs, can help raise awareness about lung cancer and encourage early detection. Examining practice websites, reviewing local media coverage, and contacting practices directly can provide information about their community outreach efforts.

Finally, consider the insurance landscape. The acceptance of various insurance plans by local providers is a key factor in access to care. Researching which insurance plans are accepted by local practices and hospitals is essential for ensuring that patients can afford the care they need. Checking practice websites, contacting providers directly, and consulting with insurance companies can provide information about insurance coverage.

To further explore the healthcare landscape in Montgomery and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, hospital locations, and other relevant data, helping you understand the accessibility of care in your area.