39152, Pulaski, Mississippi Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 39152, Pulaski, Mississippi is 7 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 71.24 percent of the residents in 39152 has some form of health insurance. 40.45 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 48.98 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 39152 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 259 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39152. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 169 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 100 health care providers accessible to residents in 39152, Pulaski, Mississippi.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 39152 & Primary Care in Pulaski

This analysis delves into the landscape of breast cancer care access and primary care availability within ZIP code 39152, focusing on the town of Pulaski, Mississippi. We'll evaluate the resources available, including physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the presence of mental health support, to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" assessment. This score, while not a numerical value, will offer insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem for individuals navigating breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship.

Pulaski, a rural community, likely faces challenges common to such areas: limited resources, geographical barriers, and potential disparities in healthcare access. The analysis begins by examining the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs), the critical gateway to preventative care and early detection. Adequate PCP availability is crucial, as they are often the first point of contact for women experiencing breast health concerns.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Pulaski is a key indicator. National averages provide a benchmark, but rural areas often have fewer physicians per capita. A lower ratio could translate to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings like mammograms and clinical breast exams. Researching the specific ratio within 39152 is paramount. Data from the Mississippi State Department of Health or the US Census Bureau, alongside information from local healthcare providers, would be essential to establish this baseline.

Once the PCP landscape is understood, the analysis shifts to specialist availability. Access to oncologists, radiologists, surgeons, and other specialists is essential for timely diagnosis and treatment. The presence of these specialists within Pulaski itself is unlikely, necessitating an assessment of referral networks and travel distances to nearby cities like Jackson or Meridian. The time and financial burden of travel can significantly impact patient outcomes and quality of life.

Identifying "standout practices" involves evaluating the quality of care provided by the existing medical professionals. This includes looking at factors like accreditation by organizations such as the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer, which indicates a commitment to high standards of care. Patient reviews, though subjective, can offer valuable insights into patient experiences, communication styles, and the overall patient-centeredness of a practice.

The adoption of telemedicine is another critical area. Telemedicine can bridge geographical gaps, providing access to consultations, follow-up appointments, and even support groups for patients who might otherwise struggle to travel. Assessing the availability of telehealth services from local providers or specialists within the referral network is crucial. This includes evaluating the types of services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring) and the ease of access (e.g., availability of technology, insurance coverage).

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but essential component of breast cancer care. A diagnosis can trigger significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and fear. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, who specialize in oncology, is crucial. This includes assessing the presence of these professionals within Pulaski or the availability of referrals to mental health providers in the surrounding areas. Access to support groups, both in-person and virtual, can also play a vital role in providing emotional support and fostering a sense of community.

The analysis needs to consider the availability of support services. This encompasses patient navigators, who guide patients through the complexities of the healthcare system, and financial assistance programs to help offset the costs of treatment and care. The presence of these services within Pulaski or accessible through referral networks can significantly improve patient outcomes.

Furthermore, the analysis considers the availability of educational resources. Access to information about breast cancer prevention, screening, treatment options, and survivorship is critical. This includes evaluating the availability of educational materials from healthcare providers, local libraries, and patient advocacy groups.

The "Breast Cancer Score" assessment for Pulaski is not a simple ranking. Instead, it's a qualitative evaluation based on the factors discussed above. The score would highlight areas of strength and areas where improvements are needed. For instance, a high score might reflect a strong PCP network, access to specialists within a reasonable distance, robust telemedicine options, and readily available mental health support. Conversely, a lower score might indicate a shortage of PCPs, long travel distances to specialists, limited telemedicine adoption, and a lack of mental health resources.

Ultimately, the goal of this analysis is to provide a clear picture of the breast cancer care landscape in Pulaski, highlighting both opportunities and challenges. This information can be used by patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers to improve access to care and ultimately improve patient outcomes. The analysis should also identify potential areas for improvement, such as increasing the number of PCPs, expanding telemedicine services, and increasing access to mental health support.

The information gathered and analyzed in this assessment can be visually represented and explored using mapping tools. Visualizing the location of physicians, healthcare facilities, and support services can provide a powerful understanding of the healthcare landscape. To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources in Pulaski, and visualize the data discussed in this analysis, we encourage you to explore the possibilities of mapping with CartoChrome maps.