31301, Allenhurst, Georgia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 31301, Allenhurst, Georgia is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 80.20 percent of the residents in 31301 has some form of health insurance. 33.90 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.80 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 31301 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,198 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 26 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 31301. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 226 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,029 health care providers accessible to residents in 31301, Allenhurst, Georgia.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Allenhurst, GA (ZIP Code 31301)**

This analysis assesses the availability of resources and the quality of care relevant to lung cancer diagnosis and treatment for residents of Allenhurst, Georgia (ZIP code 31301). The focus is on primary care physician (PCP) availability, as PCPs are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms. We will examine the physician-to-patient ratio, highlight standout practices, consider telemedicine adoption, and evaluate the presence of mental health resources, all factors influencing a patient's journey from initial suspicion to potential treatment.

Allenhurst, a small city, presents unique challenges in healthcare access. The limited population size can translate into a smaller pool of healthcare providers, potentially impacting the physician-to-patient ratio. A high ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and reduced opportunities for preventative care, all critical elements in the early detection and management of lung cancer. Accurate data on the precise physician-to-patient ratio within the ZIP code is vital. Researching local health department data, state medical board information, and potentially utilizing resources like the American Medical Association (AMA) physician finder can help determine this ratio.

Identifying standout primary care practices is essential. These practices may excel in specific areas crucial to lung cancer care. We need to look for practices that prioritize preventative screenings, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals, as recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. Practices that actively educate patients on risk factors, including smoking cessation programs, are also highly valuable. Furthermore, practices with strong referral networks to pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons are vital for ensuring timely and appropriate care. A review of online patient reviews, coupled with insights from local community health organizations, can help identify these high-performing practices.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas like Allenhurst. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to access consultations, follow-up appointments, and even mental health services remotely. Practices that offer telemedicine options can improve access to care, reduce travel time, and potentially facilitate earlier interventions. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services within primary care practices in the area requires directly contacting the practices and inquiring about their telehealth capabilities. Specifically, we should investigate whether they offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring for patients with chronic conditions, and access to specialists through telehealth platforms.

The psychological impact of a lung cancer diagnosis is significant. Patients often experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources is therefore crucial. Primary care practices that integrate mental health services, either through in-house therapists or through referrals to mental health professionals, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. Investigating whether local practices offer on-site counseling, partner with mental health providers, or have established referral pathways for mental health support is critical. Furthermore, the availability of support groups and community resources for cancer patients and their families also contributes to a comprehensive support system.

A comprehensive analysis would involve direct outreach to the primary care practices within the 31301 ZIP code. This includes gathering information on their staffing, services offered, telemedicine capabilities, and mental health resources. Analyzing publicly available data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) can provide insights into quality metrics and patient outcomes. Patient testimonials and community feedback can also be incorporated to gain a more nuanced understanding of the patient experience. The goal is to create a Lung Cancer Score that reflects the overall quality of care and accessibility of resources for residents of Allenhurst.

The Lung Cancer Score for Allenhurst, GA (31301) would be a composite metric, taking into account the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of preventative services, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support. A higher score would indicate a greater availability of resources and a more favorable environment for lung cancer care. This score could be used by residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare and by healthcare providers to identify areas for improvement.

The process of gathering data, analyzing it, and compiling a Lung Cancer Score is complex. The information presented here is a preliminary overview. A full assessment requires a detailed investigation of local healthcare resources and practices.

The availability of accurate, up-to-date mapping of healthcare resources is crucial for both patients and healthcare providers. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, practice locations, and the distribution of healthcare services within the Allenhurst area. This visual aid can help patients easily identify nearby providers and access the care they need.