36480, Uriah, Alabama Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 36480, Uriah, Alabama is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.11 percent of the residents in 36480 has some form of health insurance. 36.31 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.28 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 36480 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 315 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36480. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 399 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 101 health care providers accessible to residents in 36480, Uriah, Alabama.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 36480 and Primary Care Availability in Uriah**

Analyzing healthcare access and quality in the Uriah, Alabama area (ZIP Code 36480) requires a multi-faceted approach, especially when considering lung cancer care. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs), physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial factors influencing the quality of lung cancer treatment and patient outcomes.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests upon robust primary care. Early detection is paramount, and PCPs are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms. In Uriah, assessing primary care availability necessitates examining the number of PCPs actively practicing within the 36480 ZIP code and the surrounding areas that patients may reasonably access. This includes not only the raw number of physicians but also their specialties (internal medicine, family practice, etc.) and their capacity to see new patients.

Physician-to-patient ratios provide a critical benchmark. A high ratio (fewer physicians per patient) can indicate limited access, leading to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater accessibility, which can facilitate early detection and more timely interventions for suspected lung cancer cases. Data on patient populations within the 36480 ZIP code, coupled with the number of practicing PCPs, is essential to calculating this ratio accurately.

Identifying standout medical practices within or near Uriah is vital. These practices often demonstrate excellence in patient care, utilize evidence-based practices, and may offer specialized services relevant to lung cancer. Key indicators include the presence of board-certified physicians, accreditation by reputable healthcare organizations, and patient satisfaction scores. Furthermore, the availability of on-site diagnostic equipment (X-ray, CT scans) and access to specialists (pulmonologists, oncologists, thoracic surgeons) significantly impacts the quality and speed of care.

Telemedicine adoption presents another crucial element. Telemedicine expands access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas like Uriah. It can facilitate virtual consultations with specialists, remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment, and access to educational resources. Assessing the degree to which local practices utilize telemedicine platforms, the types of services offered remotely, and the availability of technical support for patients is essential.

The integration of mental health resources is often overlooked, yet it's vital. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals (psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists) within the local healthcare system is critical. This includes the presence of mental health services within primary care practices, referrals to specialized mental health providers, and access to support groups or counseling programs.

Specific data on the healthcare landscape in Uriah is needed to provide a definitive “Lung Cancer Score.” This would include:

* **Number of practicing PCPs:** The total number of PCPs, categorized by specialty, actively seeing patients within ZIP Code 36480 and the surrounding areas (e.g., Monroeville, Atmore).
* **Physician-to-patient ratio:** Calculated using the patient population within the service area of the PCPs.
* **Practice characteristics:** Detailed information on the key practices, including board certifications, accreditations, patient satisfaction scores, and the availability of diagnostic equipment and specialist referrals.
* **Telemedicine adoption:** The extent to which local practices utilize telemedicine platforms for consultations, monitoring, and patient education.
* **Mental health resources:** The availability of mental health professionals, referral pathways, and support programs within the healthcare system.
* **Lung Cancer Screening Programs:** Availability of screening programs.

Without this data, a precise score cannot be assigned. However, the analysis can highlight the critical factors influencing lung cancer care in the region.

Furthermore, the availability of specialized lung cancer care is a key factor. This includes access to pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons. The presence of these specialists, their experience, and their affiliation with hospitals equipped to handle lung cancer cases are all important considerations. The proximity of these specialists to Uriah, the ease of referral, and the coordination of care between primary care physicians and specialists all contribute to the overall quality of care.

The quality of the hospital infrastructure is another key component. This includes the availability of advanced imaging technology (PET scans, MRI), radiation therapy, and surgical facilities. The hospital's experience in treating lung cancer cases, its adherence to national guidelines, and its patient outcomes are important factors to assess.

The overall healthcare ecosystem plays a crucial role. This includes the availability of transportation for patients, the presence of community health programs, and the level of health insurance coverage in the area. These factors can significantly impact a patient's ability to access care and adhere to treatment plans.

In conclusion, assessing the quality of lung cancer care in Uriah (36480) requires a comprehensive evaluation of primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the availability of specialized lung cancer care. A detailed analysis of these factors, combined with specific data on the local healthcare landscape, would provide a more accurate and actionable “Lung Cancer Score.”

For a visual representation of healthcare access, physician locations, and related data, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. Visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Uriah and surrounding areas.