36569, Saint Stephens, Alabama Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 36569, Saint Stephens, Alabama is 9 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.10 percent of the residents in 36569 has some form of health insurance. 61.83 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 50.28 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 36569 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 31 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36569. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 209 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 106 health care providers accessible to residents in 36569, Saint Stephens, Alabama.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Saint Stephens, Alabama (ZIP Code 36569)

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for primary care physicians (PCPs) and the overall healthcare landscape within Saint Stephens, Alabama (ZIP Code 36569). It focuses on factors crucial to early detection, effective treatment, and supportive care for lung cancer patients. The goal is to offer a nuanced understanding of the resources available to residents and identify areas for potential improvement.

The foundation of a strong Lung Cancer Score lies in accessible and high-quality primary care. This is where the initial screening, risk assessment, and referral processes originate. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A low ratio, indicating a higher number of patients per doctor, can strain resources, potentially leading to delayed appointments and less individualized care. In Saint Stephens, the ratio needs careful examination. Publicly available data, such as those from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, should be consulted to determine the current PCP-to-patient ratio within the specified ZIP code. This data point is fundamental to understanding the capacity of the local healthcare system.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of care offered by PCPs is paramount. This involves evaluating the adoption of evidence-based practices, including adherence to guidelines for lung cancer screening, particularly for high-risk individuals (smokers and former smokers). The use of electronic health records (EHRs) and their interoperability are also vital. EHRs facilitate the seamless exchange of patient information between PCPs, specialists, and hospitals, ensuring coordinated care. The ability to quickly access and share patient data is critical in the timely diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer.

Standout practices within Saint Stephens, if any, should be identified. These practices may demonstrate exceptional patient outcomes, innovative approaches to care delivery, or a strong commitment to community outreach and education. Identifying these practices can serve as a model for other providers and highlight best practices within the community. This requires research into patient satisfaction scores, physician ratings, and the availability of specialized services such as smoking cessation programs.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. Telemedicine offers the potential to expand access to care, especially for patients in rural areas like Saint Stephens. Remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and access to specialists through telehealth platforms can significantly improve patient outcomes. The availability of telemedicine services, including their integration with existing healthcare systems, should be assessed. This includes evaluating the technological infrastructure, internet access, and the willingness of physicians to embrace telemedicine.

Mental health resources are often overlooked, but they are critical for cancer patients. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is a significant factor in the Lung Cancer Score. Access to these resources, along with support groups and other community-based programs, can help patients cope with the emotional and psychological burdens of their illness. This involves investigating the availability of mental health services, the integration of mental health care within primary care settings, and the presence of support groups specifically for cancer patients and their families.

The geographical distribution of healthcare resources within Saint Stephens is also important. The accessibility of PCPs, specialists, and hospitals can significantly impact patient outcomes. Factors such as transportation options, travel times, and the availability of public transportation should be considered. This involves analyzing the physical location of healthcare facilities, the availability of transportation services, and the ability of patients to access care in a timely manner.

Furthermore, the presence of community outreach programs and educational initiatives is vital. These programs can raise awareness about lung cancer, promote early detection, and encourage healthy lifestyle choices. The involvement of local healthcare providers, community organizations, and public health agencies in these initiatives is crucial. This involves assessing the presence of community health programs, the availability of educational materials, and the level of community engagement in promoting lung cancer awareness.

In addition, the availability of specialized services, such as pulmonologists, oncologists, and radiation oncologists, is a key factor in the Lung Cancer Score. The ability of patients to access these specialists in a timely manner is critical for effective treatment. This involves assessing the number of specialists available, their geographic distribution, and the waiting times for appointments.

Finally, the overall healthcare infrastructure within Saint Stephens should be considered. This includes the availability of hospitals, diagnostic imaging centers, and other healthcare facilities. The quality of these facilities, their accreditation status, and their ability to provide comprehensive care are all important factors. This involves assessing the quality of the local healthcare infrastructure, the availability of advanced medical technologies, and the overall capacity of the healthcare system to meet the needs of lung cancer patients.

This analysis provides a framework for evaluating the healthcare landscape within Saint Stephens, Alabama, with a focus on lung cancer. The specific data points required for a comprehensive Lung Cancer Score assessment necessitate further research and investigation. However, the factors outlined above provide a starting point for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system and identifying areas for potential improvement.

To visualize the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, physician locations, and other relevant data points within Saint Stephens and surrounding areas, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of the data discussed in this analysis, allowing for a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape and facilitating informed decision-making.