36444, Franklin, Alabama Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 36444, Franklin, Alabama is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.50 percent of the residents in 36444 has some form of health insurance. 56.66 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 46.40 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 36444 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 80 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36444. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 156 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 225 health care providers accessible to residents in 36444, Franklin, Alabama.

This analysis provides a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape in two distinct but interconnected areas: the quality of lung cancer care available from doctors practicing within ZIP Code 36444 (the general area of Evergreen, Alabama) and the availability of primary care resources in Franklin, a city in Tennessee. The focus is on factors directly impacting a patient's journey, from initial diagnosis and treatment to ongoing support.

The challenge in evaluating lung cancer care in ZIP Code 36444 is the inherent limitations of rural healthcare. Evergreen, Alabama, is a small community. The availability of specialized oncologists and advanced treatment facilities like radiation therapy is likely limited. The "Lung Cancer Score" in this context is not solely about the presence of specialists but also about the accessibility of care, the quality of referrals, and the integration with larger healthcare systems.

Physician-to-patient ratios in 36444 are likely unfavorable. The national average for primary care physicians is already strained, and rural areas often face significant shortages. This scarcity impacts the ability to receive timely screenings and early diagnoses, critical for improving lung cancer survival rates. The presence of any pulmonologists or oncologists practicing within the ZIP code would be a significant positive factor, though it's highly probable that patients require travel to larger cities like Mobile or Montgomery for specialized care.

Standout practices, if any exist within or immediately adjacent to 36444, would be those that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, even with limited resources. This includes practices that prioritize patient education, provide clear communication about treatment options, and facilitate seamless referrals to specialists. The ability to navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, especially for patients with limited mobility or financial resources, becomes paramount.

Telemedicine adoption is particularly crucial in rural areas. If practices in 36444 have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations for follow-up appointments or medication management, it significantly improves access to care. Telemedicine can reduce travel burdens and allow patients to connect with specialists remotely. The availability of telehealth services is a key indicator of a practice’s responsiveness to the needs of its patients in a geographically challenged environment.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in the context of cancer care, but they are essential. A lung cancer diagnosis is devastating, and patients often experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The presence of mental health professionals, either within the primary care practices or through readily available referral networks, is a vital component of comprehensive care. Practices that actively screen for mental health issues and offer support services are highly valued.

Shifting focus to Franklin, Tennessee, the healthcare landscape is markedly different. Franklin is a growing city with a more robust healthcare infrastructure. Primary care availability is generally better than in rural areas. The "Lung Cancer Score" in Franklin reflects a different set of priorities, including the quality of specialists, the availability of advanced treatment options, and the coordination of care.

Primary care availability in Franklin is likely good, with a higher concentration of physicians per capita compared to 36444. This means patients in Franklin are more likely to have access to timely appointments for screenings and initial consultations. The presence of a strong primary care network is crucial for early detection, which is a significant factor in improving lung cancer outcomes.

Standout practices in Franklin would be those that offer comprehensive lung cancer screening programs, including low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals. These practices should also have established referral pathways to oncologists, pulmonologists, and other specialists. The ability to coordinate care between different specialists and provide a clear, concise treatment plan is a hallmark of a high-quality practice.

Telemedicine adoption in Franklin is also relevant, though perhaps less critical than in 36444 due to the proximity to specialists. However, telemedicine can still enhance convenience, particularly for follow-up appointments and medication management. Practices that offer telehealth services are demonstrating a commitment to patient convenience and efficient care delivery.

Mental health resources are equally important in Franklin. The presence of oncology social workers, therapists specializing in cancer care, and support groups is a significant advantage. Practices that integrate mental health services into their cancer care programs are providing a more holistic approach to patient well-being. The availability of these resources can greatly improve a patient's quality of life throughout their treatment journey.

In conclusion, the "Lung Cancer Score" for 36444 and Franklin is influenced by different factors. In 36444, the focus is on access to care, referral quality, and telemedicine adoption. In Franklin, the emphasis is on the availability of specialists, advanced treatment options, and the integration of mental health services. Both areas require a commitment to patient-centered care, clear communication, and a supportive environment.

To gain a more visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in these areas, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and potential access to care, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides detailed mapping and data visualization tools that can help you analyze healthcare resources and make informed decisions about your care.