39170, Terry, Mississippi Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 39170, Terry, Mississippi is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.47 percent of the residents in 39170 has some form of health insurance. 36.60 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.46 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 39170 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,920 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 58 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39170. An estimate of 21 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,888 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,747 health care providers accessible to residents in 39170, Terry, Mississippi.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Terry, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39170)

Analyzing the availability of quality breast cancer care within Terry, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39170) requires a multi-faceted approach, considering not only the presence of medical professionals but also the broader healthcare ecosystem supporting patients. This analysis will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and evaluate the availability of mental health resources, ultimately providing a "Breast Cancer Score" perspective.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial initial indicator. Data from sources like the Mississippi State Department of Health and the U.S. Census Bureau must be analyzed to determine the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) and specialists (oncologists, surgeons, radiologists) serving the population of Terry. A low ratio, particularly for specialists, can indicate potential barriers to timely diagnosis and treatment. Patients might face longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial interventions. Conversely, a higher ratio, especially for PCPs, suggests better access to preventative care, including breast cancer screenings.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of care is paramount. Identifying "standout practices" involves researching the reputations of medical facilities and individual physicians. This research necessitates reviewing patient testimonials, examining accreditations (e.g., from the American College of Surgeons for cancer centers), and analyzing performance metrics like screening rates and patient outcomes. Practices with a demonstrated commitment to early detection, comprehensive treatment options, and patient-centered care would score higher. This includes facilities offering advanced imaging technologies like 3D mammography (tomosynthesis) and access to clinical trials.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The ability to consult with specialists remotely, receive follow-up care, and participate in support groups online can significantly improve patient convenience and access to expertise, especially for residents in rural areas like Terry. Practices actively utilizing telemedicine platforms for consultations, prescription refills, and remote monitoring would receive a favorable score. This is particularly important for patients managing chronic conditions or those facing mobility challenges.

Mental health resources are often overlooked, yet they play a vital role in breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can be incredibly stressful, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, support groups, and counseling services specifically tailored to cancer patients is essential. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models, either directly or through referrals, would be considered more comprehensive and patient-focused. This includes providing access to oncology social workers, therapists, and support groups.

Evaluating the overall "Breast Cancer Score" for Terry, Mississippi, requires synthesizing these factors. A high score would indicate a community with: a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, particularly for specialists; reputable practices with proven patient outcomes and advanced technologies; widespread telemedicine adoption; and robust mental health support services. A lower score would suggest potential challenges in accessing timely diagnosis, comprehensive treatment, and supportive care. The specific ranking would depend on the weighted importance assigned to each factor.

For example, a practice offering a comprehensive breast cancer program, including advanced imaging, surgical expertise, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and access to clinical trials, would score significantly higher than a practice offering only basic screening services. Similarly, a practice actively utilizing telemedicine to connect patients with specialists and provide follow-up care would score higher than one with limited or no telemedicine capabilities. The availability of mental health resources, such as oncology social workers and support groups, would also significantly impact the score.

The analysis would also consider the accessibility of these services. This includes factors like insurance acceptance, transportation options, and the availability of translation services for non-English speakers. Practices that are accessible to a diverse patient population would be considered more inclusive and patient-centered.

Furthermore, the "Breast Cancer Score" is not static. It should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape, such as new technologies, evolving treatment protocols, and the addition or removal of healthcare providers. This ongoing evaluation ensures that patients have access to the most current and effective care.

In conclusion, assessing the quality of breast cancer care in Terry, Mississippi, requires a comprehensive analysis of physician availability, practice reputations, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system, ultimately helping patients make informed decisions about their care.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in Terry, Mississippi, and explore the distribution of healthcare resources, including the locations of medical facilities, physician specialties, and patient demographics, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a dynamic and interactive way to analyze geographical data, allowing you to gain valuable insights into the accessibility and availability of healthcare services in your community.