39175, Utica, Mississippi Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 39175, Utica, Mississippi is 8 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.45 percent of the residents in 39175 has some form of health insurance. 48.17 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 53.47 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 39175 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 582 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39175. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 938 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 158 health care providers accessible to residents in 39175, Utica, Mississippi.

Breast cancer care in Utica, Mississippi (ZIP code 39175), presents a complex picture. Assessing the quality of care involves evaluating various factors, including the availability of primary care physicians, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized breast cancer services, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive overview, recognizing the limitations inherent in publicly available data and the dynamic nature of healthcare provision.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care begins with accessible primary care. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are crucial for early detection, screening referrals, and ongoing patient management. The availability of PCPs in Utica is a critical indicator. Physician-to-patient ratios provide a snapshot of access. A high ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses. Conversely, a low ratio suggests better access. Publicly available data, such as that from the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA), can offer estimates of these ratios. However, these are often broad averages and may not reflect the specific realities within Utica.

Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs matters. Are physicians clustered in specific areas of Utica, leaving other areas underserved? Are there any federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or other safety-net providers that cater to underserved populations? Identifying the geographic distribution of primary care is essential for understanding access disparities. The presence of nurse practitioners and physician assistants, who often provide primary care services, should also be considered. Their availability can help mitigate the impact of physician shortages.

Specialized breast cancer services are another key component. Ideally, a comprehensive breast cancer program includes access to:

* **Screening mammography:** Early detection is vital. The availability of high-quality mammography services, including 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), is paramount.
* **Diagnostic imaging:** If a suspicious finding is identified, timely access to diagnostic imaging, such as ultrasound and MRI, is crucial.
* **Surgical oncology:** The presence of surgeons specializing in breast cancer is essential for providing surgical treatment options.
* **Medical oncology:** Medical oncologists provide chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, and other systemic treatments.
* **Radiation oncology:** Radiation oncologists deliver radiation therapy.
* **Pathology:** Accurate and timely pathology reports are essential for diagnosis and treatment planning.
* **Genetic counseling:** Genetic counseling can help patients assess their risk of developing breast cancer and make informed decisions about screening and prevention.
* **Rehabilitation services:** Physical therapy and other rehabilitation services can help patients recover from treatment side effects.

The presence of these services within Utica or in close proximity is a significant factor. If these services are not available locally, patients may need to travel to larger cities, which can create barriers to care.

The adoption of telemedicine has the potential to improve access to care, especially in rural areas like Utica. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel. This is particularly valuable for follow-up appointments, medication management, and consultations with specialists. The availability of telemedicine services, the types of services offered, and the ease of use for patients are all important considerations. Does the local healthcare infrastructure support telemedicine? Are physicians and patients comfortable using these technologies?

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are critical for breast cancer patients. A breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging. Patients may experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, who specialize in oncology or have experience working with cancer patients, is essential. Are there support groups or other resources available to help patients cope with the emotional and psychological aspects of their illness? The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan is a sign of a patient-centered approach.

Standout practices in Utica, if any, might demonstrate excellence in one or more of these areas. This could include:

* **High physician-to-patient ratios:** Practices with a lower ratio, indicating better access to care.
* **Comprehensive breast cancer programs:** Practices that offer a full range of services, from screening to survivorship care.
* **Telemedicine adoption:** Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their care delivery.
* **Mental health integration:** Practices that prioritize mental health support for their patients.
* **Patient satisfaction:** Practices that consistently receive positive feedback from their patients.

Identifying these standout practices requires a deep dive into local healthcare data, patient reviews, and interviews with healthcare providers.

Assessing the quality of breast cancer care in Utica is an ongoing process. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, with new technologies, treatments, and approaches to care emerging all the time. Regularly monitoring the availability of resources, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and mental health integration is essential for ensuring that patients receive the best possible care. This analysis provides a starting point for understanding the current state of breast cancer care in Utica, highlighting the key factors that influence access and quality. The information presented here is based on publicly available data and general knowledge of healthcare practices.

For a more detailed and visual understanding of healthcare access and resources in Utica, including physician locations, clinic locations, and the distribution of services, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping tools offered by CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of the healthcare landscape, helping you to identify areas with high and low access to care.