36474, Red Level, Alabama Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 36474, Red Level, Alabama is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.30 percent of the residents in 36474 has some form of health insurance. 44.56 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.64 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 36474 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 605 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36474. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 503 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 32 health care providers accessible to residents in 36474, Red Level, Alabama.

This analysis provides a hypothetical “Lung Cancer Score” assessment for primary care physicians within ZIP Code 36474, encompassing Red Level, Alabama, and examines the availability of related resources. The score is a conceptual tool designed to evaluate factors relevant to lung cancer prevention, early detection, and patient support. It is not a real, validated clinical tool. This analysis will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, highlight potential standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and consider the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview, offering insights into the healthcare landscape within this specific geographic area.

The foundation of a strong lung cancer response lies in accessible primary care. Within ZIP Code 36474, assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. This ratio, calculated by dividing the population by the number of primary care physicians, provides a baseline understanding of access. A lower ratio generally indicates better access, allowing physicians more time with each patient. The precise population data for Red Level and the surrounding areas is essential for accurate calculations. Publicly available data from the U.S. Census Bureau, combined with information from the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners, would be needed to determine the number of active primary care physicians practicing within the specified ZIP code.

Beyond raw numbers, the distribution of physicians is important. Are the primary care physicians clustered in one part of the ZIP code, or are they spread throughout the community? This distribution impacts accessibility for patients, especially those with mobility challenges or limited transportation options. A lack of geographic distribution can create healthcare deserts, where access to care is significantly limited.

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors. Practices that actively promote preventative care, such as offering regular screenings for lung cancer risk factors (smoking history, family history) and providing resources for smoking cessation, would score higher. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient data and facilitate care coordination also contribute positively. Furthermore, practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient education, providing clear and concise information about lung cancer risks, symptoms, and treatment options, are crucial.

Telemedicine adoption is another key component of the Lung Cancer Score. Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, can significantly improve access to care, particularly in rural areas like Red Level. Practices that offer telehealth consultations for routine check-ups, follow-up appointments, and even specialist consultations would receive a higher score. Telemedicine can also be utilized for remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment, allowing for early intervention if complications arise. The availability of reliable internet access within the community is a critical factor in the success of telemedicine initiatives.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are critical for lung cancer patients. A cancer diagnosis, and its treatment, can take a significant toll on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. The availability of mental health services, such as counseling, therapy, and support groups, within the community or through referral networks, is essential. Practices that actively screen patients for mental health concerns and provide referrals to appropriate resources would be considered more supportive of patient needs. The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan can improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

The Lung Cancer Score would also consider the availability of smoking cessation programs. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and access to effective cessation programs is crucial for prevention. Practices that actively offer or refer patients to evidence-based smoking cessation programs, including counseling and medication, would receive a higher score. The effectiveness of these programs, measured by patient success rates, is also a factor in the evaluation.

Furthermore, the score would assess the availability of lung cancer screening programs, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, for high-risk individuals. Access to these screenings, as recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), is critical for early detection. Practices that actively screen eligible patients and provide education about the benefits and risks of screening would be considered proactive in lung cancer prevention. The availability of these services within the local hospital or through referral networks is also a key consideration.

The analysis should also take into account the availability of support services for lung cancer patients. These services might include patient navigators, who help patients navigate the healthcare system, financial assistance programs, and support groups. Practices that actively connect patients with these resources would demonstrate a commitment to providing comprehensive care. The presence of a local cancer support organization, offering resources and support to patients and their families, would also be a positive factor.

The Lung Cancer Score is not a static number; it is a dynamic assessment that should be regularly updated. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, with new technologies, treatments, and resources emerging. Regular reassessment of the factors outlined above is essential to ensure that the score accurately reflects the quality and accessibility of lung cancer care within ZIP Code 36474. This includes monitoring changes in physician availability, telemedicine adoption rates, and the availability of mental health and support services.

In conclusion, the Lung Cancer Score for primary care in ZIP Code 36474, encompassing Red Level, Alabama, is a multifaceted assessment. It considers physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health and support resources. This hypothetical score highlights the importance of accessible, comprehensive care for lung cancer prevention, early detection, and patient support. By evaluating these factors, we can gain a better understanding of the healthcare landscape and identify areas for improvement.

To visualize the distribution of primary care physicians, assess accessibility, and understand the geographic context of healthcare resources in Red Level and surrounding areas, explore CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide valuable insights into the healthcare landscape, aiding in the identification of potential gaps in care and opportunities for improvement.