39059, Crystal Springs, Mississippi Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 39059, Crystal Springs, Mississippi is 5 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.51 percent of the residents in 39059 has some form of health insurance. 41.61 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 55.81 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 39059 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,750 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39059. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,291 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 244 health care providers accessible to residents in 39059, Crystal Springs, Mississippi.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Crystal Springs, MS (ZIP Code 39059)

Crystal Springs, Mississippi, a community nestled in Copiah County, presents a unique landscape for breast cancer care. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive ‘Breast Cancer Score’ assessment for physicians practicing within ZIP code 39059, focusing on key factors impacting patient outcomes and access to care. We will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, explore the adoption of telemedicine, and assess the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components of a holistic approach to breast cancer treatment and support.

The foundation of any robust breast cancer care system lies in the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Crystal Springs, the assessment of primary care availability is paramount. Examining the physician-to-patient ratio provides a crucial benchmark. A low ratio, indicating a higher number of patients per physician, can potentially lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Conversely, a favorable ratio suggests greater access to preventative care, including screenings and early detection, which are critical for improving survival rates. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and the Mississippi State Department of Health should be consulted to determine the current PCP-to-patient ratio within the ZIP code. This data will form the basis of our initial score.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality and accessibility of primary care services are equally important. We must examine the practices themselves. Are they accepting new patients? Do they offer evening or weekend hours to accommodate diverse schedules? Do they have established referral pathways to specialists, including oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists? Practices that proactively engage in preventative care, such as routinely scheduling mammograms for eligible patients and providing patient education on breast health, will receive higher scores. The presence of multilingual staff or services to cater to the diverse needs of the community also contributes positively to the overall assessment.

Identifying standout practices involves a deeper dive into their operational models and patient outcomes. Practices demonstrating a commitment to patient-centered care, evidenced by positive patient reviews and testimonials, will be highly regarded. Furthermore, practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, such as tracking screening rates and adherence to treatment guidelines, will be recognized for their dedication to excellence. The integration of electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate seamless information sharing between primary care physicians and specialists is also a key factor. This ensures that patients receive coordinated and comprehensive care throughout their cancer journey.

The adoption of telemedicine has revolutionized healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas like Crystal Springs. Telemedicine offers the potential to overcome geographical barriers, providing patients with access to specialists and support services without the need for extensive travel. The availability of telehealth consultations for primary care, specialist appointments, and mental health services will be assessed. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments, remote monitoring, and patient education resources, will receive a significant boost in their scores. The ease of use of the telemedicine platform, its integration with existing EHR systems, and the availability of technical support for patients are also crucial considerations.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked but critical component of breast cancer care. The diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer can be emotionally and psychologically challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. The availability of mental health resources within the community is therefore a significant factor in our scoring system. This includes assessing the availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs), and support groups. Practices that actively screen patients for mental health issues and provide referrals to appropriate resources will be highly valued. The integration of mental health services into the overall cancer care plan, ensuring that patients receive comprehensive support throughout their journey, is a key indicator of a high-quality care system.

The ‘Breast Cancer Score’ will be a composite metric, weighting each of the above factors based on their relative importance. The physician-to-patient ratio will be weighted heavily, reflecting its fundamental impact on access to care. The quality of primary care practices, including their commitment to preventative care, patient-centeredness, and integration of technology, will also be a significant factor. The adoption of telemedicine and the availability of mental health resources will be given considerable weight, recognizing their crucial roles in improving patient outcomes and overall well-being.

The final score will be presented as a numerical rating, providing a clear and concise assessment of the breast cancer care landscape in Crystal Springs. This score will serve as a valuable resource for patients seeking care, helping them make informed decisions about their healthcare providers. It will also provide valuable insights for healthcare providers, highlighting areas where improvements can be made to enhance the quality and accessibility of breast cancer care in the community. The goal is to provide a transparent and data-driven assessment that empowers patients and promotes excellence in breast cancer care.

This analysis underscores the importance of a multifaceted approach to breast cancer care, emphasizing not only clinical expertise but also access, convenience, and emotional support. By considering all these factors, we can create a more comprehensive and effective system of care for the residents of Crystal Springs.

To visualize the geographical distribution of physicians, primary care availability, and other relevant data points within ZIP code 39059, we recommend utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers a powerful platform for creating interactive maps that can provide valuable insights into the healthcare landscape.