36445, Frisco City, Alabama Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 36445, Frisco City, Alabama is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.27 percent of the residents in 36445 has some form of health insurance. 43.94 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 53.79 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 36445 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,049 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36445. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,144 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 100 health care providers accessible to residents in 36445, Frisco City, Alabama.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Frisco City, Alabama (ZIP Code 36445)**

Analyzing the healthcare landscape of Frisco City, Alabama, specifically focusing on the availability and quality of care relevant to lung cancer detection and treatment, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers primary care physician availability, the presence of specialized services, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components in providing comprehensive care to individuals facing a potential or confirmed lung cancer diagnosis. The goal is to provide a “Lung Cancer Score” assessment, reflecting the overall strength of the healthcare ecosystem in this specific location.

The foundation of any effective lung cancer care pathway rests on accessible primary care. In Frisco City, assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is paramount. National averages provide a benchmark; however, rural areas often experience shortages. Determining the number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the 36445 ZIP code, and comparing this to the estimated population, offers a crucial initial metric. A low physician-to-patient ratio, indicating a scarcity of primary care providers, would negatively impact the “Lung Cancer Score.” Early detection, often facilitated by regular check-ups and screening, becomes more challenging when access to primary care is limited. Delays in diagnosis can significantly affect treatment outcomes.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care matters. Evaluating the practices within Frisco City requires considering factors such as the availability of electronic health records (EHRs), which facilitate information sharing and care coordination. Practices utilizing EHRs are often better equipped to manage patient data, track screenings, and coordinate referrals. Another factor is the practice’s adherence to established clinical guidelines for lung cancer screening, including recommendations for high-risk individuals. Does the practice proactively offer or recommend low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for eligible patients? The adoption of these best practices would positively influence the “Lung Cancer Score.”

The availability of specialized services is another critical component. While Frisco City may not have its own oncology center, assessing the proximity to such facilities is essential. Are there readily accessible oncology practices in nearby cities, such as Monroeville or Brewton? The travel time and ease of access to these specialized services directly impact the patient experience and the speed with which treatment can begin. The presence of pulmonologists, specialists in respiratory diseases, is also vital. They play a key role in diagnosis, staging, and management of lung cancer. The availability of these specialists within a reasonable distance is a positive factor in the “Lung Cancer Score.”

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly relevant, especially in rural areas. Does the primary care practice offer telemedicine consultations? The ability to consult with a physician remotely can improve access to care, particularly for follow-up appointments, medication management, and consultations with specialists. Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for patients who have mobility issues or live a significant distance from healthcare facilities. The extent to which telemedicine is integrated into the local healthcare system would influence the “Lung Cancer Score.”

The emotional and psychological toll of a lung cancer diagnosis is significant. The availability of mental health resources is therefore a crucial aspect of comprehensive care. Are mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, accessible in Frisco City or nearby communities? Does the local healthcare system offer support groups or counseling services specifically for cancer patients and their families? The presence of these resources would positively impact the “Lung Cancer Score.” Addressing the mental health needs of patients can significantly improve their quality of life and their ability to cope with the challenges of treatment.

Standout practices in Frisco City, if any, should be highlighted. Perhaps a specific primary care practice has implemented a robust lung cancer screening program, proactively reaching out to high-risk patients. Maybe a practice has embraced telemedicine to enhance patient access. Identifying and recognizing these exemplary practices can serve as a model for others and help improve the overall quality of care. A practice that demonstrates a commitment to patient-centered care, including proactive screening, coordinated referrals, and support services, would receive a higher score.

The “Lung Cancer Score” for Frisco City, Alabama, ZIP code 36445, is a composite measure. It considers the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care, the proximity to specialized services, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. A low score would indicate significant challenges in accessing timely and comprehensive lung cancer care. Conversely, a high score would reflect a healthcare system that is well-equipped to support patients through all stages of diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. This score provides a snapshot of the healthcare landscape and highlights areas where improvements are needed.

This analysis provides a framework for understanding the healthcare environment in Frisco City. However, a more detailed assessment requires access to specific data, including physician demographics, practice information, and resource availability. This information is constantly evolving.

To gain a more visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Frisco City and surrounding areas, consider exploring the power of spatial data visualization. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and informative view of physician locations, healthcare facility proximity, and other relevant data points. They allow for a deeper dive into the healthcare ecosystem, identifying potential gaps in care and highlighting areas where resources are concentrated.