39193, Whitfield, Mississippi Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 39193, Whitfield, Mississippi is 95 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 20.78 percent of the residents in 39193 has some form of health insurance. 14.88 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 5.90 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 39193 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 10 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 79 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39193. An estimate of 44 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 56 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 10,906 health care providers accessible to residents in 39193, Whitfield, Mississippi.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 39193 & Whitfield Primary Care

Analyzing healthcare access and quality, particularly regarding breast cancer care, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis focuses on two key areas: evaluating physicians within ZIP Code 39193 and assessing primary care availability in Whitfield, potentially impacting early detection and treatment outcomes. We'll examine physician-to-patient ratios, identify standout practices, gauge telemedicine adoption, and assess the availability of mental health resources, all critical components of a comprehensive breast cancer care ecosystem.

ZIP Code 39193, representing a specific geographical area, provides a defined scope for evaluating physician density and accessibility. Determining the physician-to-patient ratio is paramount. This involves calculating the number of primary care physicians, oncologists, radiologists, and surgeons specializing in breast health within the ZIP code, and then comparing that number to the estimated population. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per patient, can signal potential challenges in accessing timely screenings, diagnoses, and treatments. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility, although other factors, such as insurance acceptance and appointment availability, also play a significant role.

Identifying standout practices within 39193 necessitates a deeper dive. This involves reviewing patient reviews, assessing accreditations (e.g., from the American College of Radiology for imaging centers), and examining the range of services offered. Practices that offer comprehensive breast cancer care, including mammography, biopsies, surgical consultations, and access to clinical trials, are particularly valuable. Additionally, practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient education and support, such as offering support groups or providing resources for navigating the healthcare system, are highly regarded.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The ability to offer virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational sessions can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Practices that have embraced telemedicine technologies, providing secure video conferencing and remote monitoring capabilities, are better positioned to serve a wider patient population and improve patient outcomes. The presence of telemedicine options can also reduce travel burdens and improve convenience, which can be particularly important for patients undergoing treatment.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are an essential component of breast cancer care. A breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Practices that offer access to mental health professionals, such as psychologists, psychiatrists, and counselors, or that partner with organizations providing these services, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. These resources can help patients cope with the emotional challenges of the disease, manage anxiety and depression, and improve their overall quality of life.

Evaluating primary care availability in Whitfield requires a broader perspective. Whitfield, as a larger geographic area, may encompass multiple ZIP codes and a more diverse population. Assessing primary care access involves examining the density of primary care physicians, the availability of appointments, and the acceptance of various insurance plans. A shortage of primary care physicians can lead to delayed diagnoses and referrals, potentially impacting breast cancer outcomes.

The proximity of primary care physicians to the population is also important. Patients who have to travel long distances to see a primary care physician may be less likely to seek preventative care, such as mammograms and other screenings. This can lead to delayed diagnoses and poorer outcomes. Analyzing the geographic distribution of primary care practices and identifying areas with limited access is crucial.

The integration of primary care physicians into the breast cancer care pathway is also important. Primary care physicians often serve as the first point of contact for patients and play a crucial role in screening, early detection, and referral to specialists. Practices that foster strong relationships with primary care physicians, such as through shared electronic medical records or regular communication, can improve patient care coordination and ensure that patients receive timely and appropriate treatment.

The availability of support services within Whitfield is another key consideration. This includes access to patient navigators, who can help patients navigate the healthcare system, and support groups, which can provide emotional support and connect patients with others who have similar experiences. The presence of these services can improve patient satisfaction and outcomes.

The overall 'Breast Cancer Score' for both 39193 and Whitfield would be a composite score, reflecting the weighted averages of the factors discussed above. The weights assigned to each factor would depend on their relative importance. For example, physician-to-patient ratios might be weighted more heavily than telemedicine adoption. The final score would provide a comparative measure of healthcare access and quality within the specified areas.

This analysis highlights the complexities of evaluating healthcare access and quality, particularly regarding breast cancer care. A comprehensive assessment requires a multi-faceted approach, considering physician density, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the overall availability of primary care. By understanding these factors, we can identify areas for improvement and work towards ensuring that all patients have access to the best possible care.

To gain a more visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in 39193 and Whitfield, and to explore the geographic distribution of physicians, healthcare facilities, and patient populations, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a powerful visualization of the data discussed in this analysis, allowing for a deeper understanding of healthcare access and identifying potential areas for improvement.