Health Scores Near 36518, Chatom, Alabama
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The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 36518, Chatom, Alabama is 7 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 79.46 percent of the residents in 36518 has some form of health insurance. 36.08 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.39 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 36518 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 431 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36518. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 448 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 73 health care providers accessible to residents in 36518, Chatom, Alabama.
Health Scores in 36518, Chatom, Alabama
| Lung Cancer Score | 22 |
|---|---|
| People Score | 70 |
| Provider Score | 7 |
| Hospital Score | 19 |
| Travel Score | 54 |
| 36518 | Chatom | Alabama | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Providers per 10,000 residents | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Pediatricians per 10,000 residents under 18 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Geriatricians per 10,000 residents over 65 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 36518 & Primary Care Availability in Chatom, AL**
This analysis examines the availability and quality of healthcare resources within ZIP code 36518 (primarily encompassing the town of Chatom, Alabama) with a specific focus on lung cancer care. We will evaluate primary care access, which is crucial for early detection and referral, and assess the overall healthcare landscape, including physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. The ultimate goal is to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system concerning lung cancer management.
Chatom, Alabama, a rural community, faces unique challenges in healthcare delivery. Geographic isolation, limited resources, and socioeconomic factors can significantly impact access to care. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) serves as the foundation for effective lung cancer screening and treatment. Early detection is paramount in improving outcomes, and PCPs are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms or those eligible for screening.
**Primary Care Availability & Physician-to-Patient Ratios**
Determining the precise physician-to-patient ratio in 36518 requires accessing specific data from sources like the U.S. Census Bureau and the Alabama Department of Public Health. However, we can make some informed inferences. Rural areas often experience a shortage of PCPs compared to urban centers. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and increased reliance on emergency room services. If the physician-to-patient ratio is significantly higher than the national average, it suggests a strain on the existing healthcare infrastructure.
The availability of PCPs in Chatom is likely limited. This scarcity can influence the "Lung Cancer Score" negatively. A low number of PCPs may mean fewer opportunities for early screening, diagnosis, and referral to specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists. This is particularly critical for lung cancer, where early detection significantly improves survival rates.
**Standout Practices & Healthcare Infrastructure**
Identifying "standout practices" in a rural setting like Chatom necessitates a review of local healthcare providers, hospitals, and clinics. The presence of a well-equipped primary care practice with a focus on preventative care, including lung cancer screening protocols, would be a significant asset. The availability of on-site diagnostic services, such as X-rays and potentially even low-dose CT scans, would be a major advantage.
The local hospital, if any, plays a crucial role in providing access to specialized services. The existence of a pulmonology specialist or a visiting oncologist would significantly enhance the "Lung Cancer Score." A hospital with a dedicated oncology unit, offering chemotherapy and radiation therapy, would further improve the score. However, rural hospitals often face financial constraints, which can limit their ability to offer comprehensive cancer care.
**Telemedicine Adoption & Its Impact**
Telemedicine has the potential to bridge the gap in healthcare access in rural areas. Its implementation in 36518 could greatly improve the "Lung Cancer Score." Telemedicine allows patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially shortening the time to diagnosis and treatment.
The adoption of telemedicine, however, depends on several factors. These include the availability of reliable internet access, the willingness of local providers to embrace the technology, and the patient's ability to utilize telemedicine platforms. If local practices have integrated telemedicine into their services, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and access to educational resources, it would positively impact the "Lung Cancer Score."
**Mental Health Resources & Their Significance**
Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's mental health. The availability of mental health resources is an essential component of comprehensive cancer care. Depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges are common among cancer patients.
The presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and counselors, within the local healthcare system is crucial. Access to these services can help patients cope with the emotional and psychological challenges of their illness. If local healthcare providers offer mental health support services, either on-site or through referrals, it would contribute positively to the "Lung Cancer Score."
**Overall "Lung Cancer Score" Assessment**
Based on the factors discussed above, the "Lung Cancer Score" for 36518 is likely to be moderate, potentially below the national average. The challenges of rural healthcare, including limited physician availability, geographic isolation, and potential socioeconomic factors, will likely impact the score negatively. The score could be improved with telemedicine integration, a focus on preventative care, and the availability of mental health resources.
The score is not intended to be a definitive numerical value. Instead, it serves as an assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system concerning lung cancer care. The score would be enhanced by:
* Increased primary care physician availability.
* The presence of specialists (pulmonologists, oncologists).
* The implementation of telemedicine services.
* The availability of mental health support.
* A focus on preventative care, including lung cancer screening.
**Conclusion & Call to Action**
Understanding the healthcare landscape in a specific ZIP code is crucial for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers. The "Lung Cancer Score" analysis provides a starting point for evaluating access to care and identifying areas for improvement.
To gain a more detailed understanding of the healthcare resources in 36518, including the location of providers, the availability of services, and the demographic characteristics of the population, we recommend exploring the data visualization tools offered by CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a comprehensive visual representation of the healthcare landscape, allowing you to identify potential gaps in care and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.
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