36720, Alberta, Alabama Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 36720, Alberta, Alabama is 5 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.41 percent of the residents in 36720 has some form of health insurance. 64.67 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 35.33 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 36720 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 169 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36720. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 90 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 290 health care providers accessible to residents in 36720, Alberta, Alabama.

## Lung Cancer Score: A Comparative Analysis of Healthcare Resources

This analysis provides a comparative 'Lung Cancer Score' assessment, focusing on healthcare resources relevant to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support. The scoring is based on factors crucial for patient outcomes, including physician availability, access to specialized care, telemedicine integration, and mental health support, tailored to two distinct geographical areas: doctors practicing in ZIP Code 36720 (Alabama, USA) and primary care availability in Alberta (Canada).

**Understanding the Score's Framework**

The 'Lung Cancer Score' is not a singular, definitive metric. Instead, it reflects a composite evaluation across several key dimensions. Each dimension is weighted based on its perceived impact on lung cancer patient care. The analysis considers the following categories: physician-to-patient ratios (specifically pulmonologists, oncologists, and primary care physicians), access to diagnostic imaging (CT scans, PET scans), the availability of specialized treatment centers (surgery, radiation therapy), the adoption of telemedicine for consultations and follow-up, and the integration of mental health resources for patients and their families. Data limitations and variations in data collection methodologies necessitate a degree of qualitative assessment alongside quantitative data.

**ZIP Code 36720: Alabama, USA**

ZIP Code 36720, encompassing the city of Camden and surrounding areas in Alabama, presents a unique healthcare landscape. This area, like many rural communities in the United States, faces challenges related to healthcare access.

**Physician Availability:** Physician-to-patient ratios in 36720 are a critical concern. The area likely experiences a shortage of primary care physicians, pulmonologists, and oncologists. This scarcity can lead to delayed diagnoses, increased travel distances for appointments, and reduced access to specialized care. The presence of a hospital in Camden is a positive factor, but the number of specialists within the hospital or accessible through referral networks is crucial. The score reflects a likely low physician-to-patient ratio for specialists.

**Diagnostic and Treatment Resources:** Access to advanced diagnostic imaging, such as CT scans and PET scans, is paramount for lung cancer detection and staging. The availability of these technologies within the local hospital is essential. The presence of a radiation oncology center within a reasonable distance is another critical factor. The score reflects a moderate to low access to these resources, given the rural setting.

**Telemedicine and Technology Adoption:** Telemedicine has the potential to bridge the geographical gaps in healthcare access. The adoption of telemedicine for consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring can significantly improve patient care. The score reflects a moderate level of telemedicine adoption, with potential for growth.

**Mental Health Support:** Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment often have a significant impact on a patient's mental well-being. Access to mental health services, including counseling and support groups, is crucial. The score reflects a potential lack of readily available mental health resources in this rural setting.

**Alberta, Canada: Primary Care Availability**

Alberta, with its universal healthcare system, presents a different set of considerations for lung cancer care, primarily revolving around primary care availability and the efficiency of referrals to specialists.

**Physician Availability:** Alberta generally has a higher physician-to-patient ratio compared to many areas in the United States. However, access to primary care physicians, particularly in rural areas, can still be a challenge. The score reflects a generally better physician-to-patient ratio compared to 36720, but with regional variations.

**Diagnostic and Treatment Resources:** Alberta benefits from a publicly funded healthcare system that provides access to advanced diagnostic imaging and specialized treatment centers. Access to CT scans, PET scans, radiation therapy, and surgical oncology services is generally better than in 36720. The score reflects a good access to these resources.

**Telemedicine and Technology Adoption:** Telemedicine is increasingly being utilized in Alberta to improve access to care, particularly in rural areas. The score reflects a moderate to high adoption of telemedicine, especially for specialist consultations and follow-up appointments.

**Mental Health Support:** Alberta's healthcare system includes mental health services, which are available to lung cancer patients. The score reflects a good availability of mental health resources, though the efficiency of access can vary.

**Comparative Analysis and Standout Practices**

Comparing the two areas, Alberta generally scores higher in overall access to care, primarily due to its universal healthcare system and better physician-to-patient ratios. 36720 faces significant challenges related to physician shortages and access to specialized resources. However, the presence of a local hospital is a positive factor.

In 36720, the hospital and its affiliated practices are key. The extent to which they are actively promoting telemedicine, partnering with mental health providers, and ensuring timely referrals to specialists will significantly impact patient outcomes.

In Alberta, the efficiency of the referral process from primary care physicians to specialists is crucial. Practices that prioritize patient communication, streamline referrals, and integrate mental health support are likely to achieve better patient outcomes. The adoption of electronic health records and the integration of telemedicine are also critical for improving care coordination.

**Conclusion**

This 'Lung Cancer Score' analysis highlights the disparities in healthcare access and resource availability between ZIP Code 36720 and Alberta. While Alberta benefits from a more robust healthcare system, both areas can improve patient care by focusing on physician recruitment, expanding telemedicine adoption, and ensuring access to comprehensive mental health support.

For a visual representation of these healthcare landscapes and to explore the spatial distribution of healthcare resources, we encourage you to explore **CartoChrome maps**.