36529, Deer Park, Alabama Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 36529, Deer Park, Alabama is 13 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.31 percent of the residents in 36529 has some form of health insurance. 65.63 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 45.31 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 36529 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 92 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36529. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 65 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 139 health care providers accessible to residents in 36529, Deer Park, Alabama.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Deer Park, Alabama (ZIP Code 36529)

This analysis evaluates the healthcare landscape in Deer Park, Alabama (ZIP Code 36529), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer care. The goal is to provide an informed perspective on the accessibility and quality of care, particularly concerning primary care, as a critical entry point to early detection and management. The analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health support, all of which contribute to a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" for the area. This score, while not a singular number, is a composite understanding based on the factors discussed.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on robust primary care. Access to a primary care physician (PCP) is paramount for early screening, diagnosis, and coordinated treatment. In Deer Park, the availability of PCPs is a key determinant of the overall score. Analyzing physician-to-patient ratios provides a baseline understanding. The national average is a useful benchmark. If the ratio in 36529 significantly exceeds the national average, it suggests potential challenges in accessing timely appointments and consistent care. This can lead to delays in diagnosis and treatment, impacting patient outcomes.

Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio requires accessing current data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or state medical boards. This data is dynamic and needs to be regularly updated. The availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, within a reasonable travel distance is also crucial. The presence of these specialists, and their integration with primary care practices, contributes to a higher score. A coordinated approach, where PCPs can easily refer patients for specialized care, is ideal.

Standout practices within the 36529 ZIP code or nearby areas significantly influence the score. Identifying practices known for their commitment to preventive care, including lung cancer screening programs, is essential. These practices often have established protocols for identifying high-risk individuals and facilitating early detection. Their adoption of evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening and management is a positive indicator. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, such as those focused on reducing disparities in care, further enhance the score.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The ability to access healthcare services remotely has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine can facilitate consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational sessions, improving access to care and reducing the burden on patients. Practices that offer telemedicine services, particularly for chronic disease management and mental health support, contribute to a higher score. The availability of telehealth options can be particularly beneficial for patients who may face transportation challenges or live far from specialist centers.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but play a significant role in cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, is crucial for providing comprehensive support. The availability of mental health services within primary care practices or through referral networks is a positive indicator. Integrated behavioral health services, where mental health professionals work directly with primary care physicians, can improve patient outcomes. The presence of support groups and educational programs for patients and their families also contributes to a higher score.

The score is negatively impacted by factors such as limited access to care, lack of screening programs, and a scarcity of specialists. Areas with a high proportion of uninsured or underinsured individuals may face greater challenges in accessing timely and affordable care, which also negatively impacts the score. The presence of environmental factors, such as high levels of air pollution, that may increase the risk of lung cancer is another consideration.

The analysis also considers the availability of smoking cessation programs. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and access to effective cessation programs is crucial for prevention and improving outcomes. The presence of these programs within primary care practices, hospitals, or community health centers is a positive indicator. The availability of medications and counseling services, as well as the effectiveness of these programs, contributes to the overall score.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Deer Park, Alabama, reflects a complex interplay of factors. It is not a static number but rather a dynamic assessment of the healthcare environment. Regular updates are essential to reflect changes in physician availability, practice characteristics, and the integration of new technologies and services. The score should be viewed as a tool for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system and identifying areas for improvement.

To gain a more detailed understanding of the healthcare landscape in Deer Park, Alabama, and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide interactive visualizations of geographic data, allowing you to explore physician locations, hospital locations, and other relevant data points. This can help you identify areas with limited access to care and understand the distribution of resources within the community.