39117, Morton, Mississippi Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 39117, Morton, Mississippi is 7 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.33 percent of the residents in 39117 has some form of health insurance. 33.58 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.85 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 39117 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,108 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39117. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,439 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 338 health care providers accessible to residents in 39117, Morton, Mississippi.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Morton, MS (ZIP Code 39117)

Analyzing the availability and quality of breast cancer care within ZIP Code 39117, encompassing the town of Morton, Mississippi, necessitates a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers several key factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in a comprehensive breast cancer care ecosystem. This evaluation aims to provide an informed perspective on the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a foundational metric. It indicates the potential accessibility of care. In a rural area like Morton, the density of primary care physicians and specialists, particularly oncologists and radiologists, is often lower than in more urban settings. This can translate to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. Researching the exact ratio within 39117 is crucial. Publicly available data from sources like the US Department of Health & Human Services or the Mississippi State Department of Health can provide insights. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, would negatively impact the Breast Cancer Score.

The identification of standout medical practices is another critical component. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to excellence in patient care. This involves factors such as the utilization of advanced diagnostic technologies, adherence to evidence-based treatment protocols, and a patient-centered approach. Practices that offer comprehensive breast cancer screening programs, including mammography and potentially ultrasound or MRI, are highly valued. Furthermore, practices that participate in clinical trials or have strong affiliations with larger cancer centers can offer access to cutting-edge treatments and research opportunities. Investigating the specific practices operating within or serving the 39117 area and evaluating their services and reputation is essential.

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly relevant, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, providing access to specialists and consultations that might otherwise be unavailable. The ability to conduct virtual appointments for follow-up care, discuss test results, and receive counseling can significantly improve patient convenience and reduce travel burdens. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services offered by local practices or through partnerships with larger healthcare systems will influence the Breast Cancer Score. Practices that have embraced telemedicine technologies and offer virtual consultations are likely to score higher.

The availability of mental health resources is often overlooked but is a vital aspect of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional and psychological well-being. Access to mental health professionals, support groups, and counseling services is crucial for managing anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges that can arise during this difficult time. Evaluating the presence of these resources within the 39117 area or through referrals from local practices is important. A strong network of mental health support services will positively impact the Breast Cancer Score.

Specific examples of practices and resources within the 39117 area would be needed for a truly detailed analysis. However, the general methodology involves gathering data from multiple sources. This includes:

* **Public health databases:** Data on physician counts, hospital locations, and public health initiatives.
* **Physician directories:** Identifying local primary care physicians, oncologists, radiologists, and other relevant specialists.
* **Hospital websites:** Information on services offered, technologies used, and affiliations with cancer centers.
* **Practice websites and reviews:** Assessing patient reviews and testimonials to gauge patient satisfaction and perceived quality of care.
* **Insurance provider directories:** Identifying in-network providers and assessing the availability of covered services.
* **Local community resources:** Information on support groups, counseling services, and other mental health resources.

The Breast Cancer Score would be a composite score, reflecting the weighted average of the factors discussed. Each factor, such as physician-to-patient ratio, telemedicine adoption, and the presence of mental health resources, would be assigned a weight based on its relative importance. The higher the score, the better the overall breast cancer care landscape within the ZIP Code.

The specific practices within the 39117 area would be assessed based on their services. This would involve identifying practices offering mammography and other screening services. The availability of these services is a critical factor in early detection and successful treatment. The practices’ commitment to patient education and support services, such as patient navigators, would also be evaluated. The presence of these services can improve the patient experience and ensure that patients receive the support they need throughout their treatment journey.

The adoption of telemedicine is another key factor. Practices that offer virtual consultations and remote monitoring services would receive a higher score. This is particularly important in rural areas where access to care can be limited. Telemedicine can help to overcome geographical barriers and ensure that patients receive timely care.

The availability of mental health resources is also a crucial consideration. Practices that have partnerships with mental health professionals or offer on-site counseling services would receive a higher score. This is important because cancer treatment can be emotionally and psychologically challenging. Access to mental health support can help patients cope with the stress and anxiety associated with their diagnosis and treatment.

The Breast Cancer Score is not just a numerical value; it’s a representation of the healthcare ecosystem’s ability to provide accessible, high-quality, and comprehensive breast cancer care. It is important to remember that this is a snapshot in time. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. New technologies, treatment options, and resources are continually emerging. Therefore, it is important to regularly update the Breast Cancer Score to reflect these changes.

To gain a more visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Morton, MS (39117), and to identify potential gaps in care, consider exploring the power of geospatial analysis. CartoChrome maps can offer a dynamic view of physician locations, healthcare facility distribution, and resource availability, allowing for a deeper understanding of the area's healthcare infrastructure.