39114, Mendenhall, Mississippi Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 39114, Mendenhall, Mississippi is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.85 percent of the residents in 39114 has some form of health insurance. 45.28 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 55.67 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 39114 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,512 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39114. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,097 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 299 health care providers accessible to residents in 39114, Mendenhall, Mississippi.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Mendenhall, MS (ZIP Code 39114)

This analysis delves into the landscape of breast cancer care within ZIP Code 39114, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care services in Mendenhall, Mississippi. We aim to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, considering factors crucial to early detection, diagnosis, and treatment. This score, while not a definitive ranking, offers insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare infrastructure, particularly concerning breast cancer care.

The foundation of effective breast cancer management lies in accessible and responsive primary care. Regular checkups, screenings, and referrals are vital for early detection, significantly improving patient outcomes. In Mendenhall, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical factor. Physician-to-patient ratios are a key indicator. A higher ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings like mammograms. Publicly available data from sources like the Mississippi State Department of Health and the U.S. Census Bureau, when combined, can offer an approximate ratio. This ratio, however, doesn't fully capture the reality. Physician workloads, insurance acceptance, and the willingness of physicians to accept new patients also influence access.

Standout practices in Mendenhall are those that demonstrate a commitment to proactive breast cancer screening and patient education. These practices will likely have established protocols for recommending mammograms based on age and risk factors. They would ideally collaborate with local imaging centers, ensuring seamless referral processes and timely results. Furthermore, these practices should offer patient education materials and resources, empowering individuals to understand their risk factors and the importance of early detection. This includes providing information on self-exams, genetic testing (when appropriate), and the signs and symptoms of breast cancer. Identifying these practices requires a review of local healthcare directories, patient reviews, and possibly direct contact with medical offices.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare, particularly in rural areas like Mendenhall. Its adoption can significantly enhance access to care, especially for patients who may face geographical barriers or transportation challenges. Telemedicine allows for virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring. For breast cancer care, telemedicine can facilitate discussions about screening results, provide support for patients undergoing treatment, and connect patients with specialists who may not be readily available locally. Assessing telemedicine adoption involves examining the websites and services offered by local healthcare providers. Are virtual appointments available? Do they offer secure patient portals for communication and access to medical records?

Beyond the physical aspects of breast cancer care, the mental and emotional well-being of patients is paramount. A diagnosis of breast cancer can be incredibly stressful, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources within the community is therefore crucial. This includes access to therapists, counselors, support groups, and psychiatric services. Ideally, primary care practices should have established referral pathways to mental health providers. The presence of support groups, either in-person or online, can provide invaluable emotional support and a sense of community for patients and their families. Researching local mental health providers, community centers, and hospital resources is essential to assess the availability of these services.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Mendenhall, MS, is therefore a composite of these factors. It reflects the accessibility of primary care, the proactive approach of local practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. A high score would indicate a strong healthcare infrastructure that supports early detection, timely diagnosis, and comprehensive care for breast cancer patients. A lower score would highlight areas needing improvement, such as increasing the number of PCPs, promoting telemedicine adoption, and expanding mental health resources.

To improve the score, the community can take several steps. Encouraging more physicians to practice in the area, supporting local healthcare providers in adopting telemedicine technologies, and advocating for increased funding for mental health services are all crucial. Community outreach programs focused on breast cancer awareness and education can also play a significant role. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government is essential to create a supportive and responsive healthcare environment.

The limitations of this analysis are also important to acknowledge. Data availability can be a challenge, and the assessment is based on publicly available information and general observations. A more comprehensive analysis would involve direct surveys of healthcare providers, patient interviews, and a detailed review of medical records (with appropriate patient consent and privacy protections). Furthermore, the "Breast Cancer Score" is not a static measure; it should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape.

In conclusion, the "Breast Cancer Score" for Mendenhall, MS (ZIP Code 39114) reveals a complex picture of healthcare access and quality. While specific data points are needed for a definitive ranking, the analysis highlights the importance of accessible primary care, proactive screening practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. The community's commitment to addressing these factors will directly impact the health and well-being of those affected by breast cancer.

For a visual representation of healthcare resources in Mendenhall and surrounding areas, including the location of primary care physicians, imaging centers, and mental health providers, explore the power of spatial analysis. **Visit CartoChrome maps to visualize the healthcare landscape and gain a deeper understanding of resource distribution in your community.**