39341, Macon, Mississippi Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 39341, Macon, Mississippi is 9 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 81.44 percent of the residents in 39341 has some form of health insurance. 46.13 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 40.73 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 39341 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,911 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39341. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 902 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 44 health care providers accessible to residents in 39341, Macon, Mississippi.

Breast cancer is a significant health concern, and access to quality care is paramount. This analysis focuses on evaluating the availability and quality of breast cancer-related care in and around ZIP code 39341 (likely a rural area in Mississippi) and assessing primary care availability in Macon, Mississippi, a broader region. We'll use a "Breast Cancer Score" framework, considering factors crucial for effective patient outcomes. The goal is to provide actionable insights for residents and healthcare providers, ultimately improving breast cancer care.

**ZIP Code 39341: A Focused Look**

The Breast Cancer Score for ZIP code 39341 begins with understanding the local healthcare infrastructure. This involves assessing the physician-to-patient ratio, specifically for primary care physicians (PCPs), general surgeons, and oncologists. A low ratio indicates a potential shortage of providers, which can lead to delayed diagnoses and treatment. We must ascertain the number of PCPs actively practicing within or immediately adjacent to the ZIP code. Next, we need to determine the availability of general surgeons capable of performing breast biopsies and lumpectomies. Finally, the presence of oncologists, either practicing locally or accessible through referral networks, is critical. The closer the oncologist, the better.

Beyond physician numbers, we evaluate the quality of care. This includes examining the accreditation status of any local hospitals or clinics. Accreditation by organizations like the American College of Surgeons (ACS) for breast centers signifies adherence to rigorous standards of care. We assess the availability of essential diagnostic services, such as mammography, ultrasound, and MRI, ideally within the ZIP code or a reasonable driving distance. The presence of a dedicated breast cancer center, even if small, is a significant positive factor.

Telemedicine adoption is another key component of the Breast Cancer Score. Telemedicine offers a valuable solution, especially in rural areas where access to specialists can be challenging. We need to identify if local providers offer telemedicine consultations for breast cancer screening, diagnosis, or follow-up care. This can significantly improve access to specialists and reduce travel burdens for patients. Furthermore, the availability of telehealth for mental health support is crucial, as a breast cancer diagnosis can profoundly impact a patient's emotional well-being.

Mental health resources are an integral part of the Breast Cancer Score. We need to identify the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, who specialize in oncology or have experience supporting patients with cancer. The presence of support groups, either in-person or online, is also a positive indicator. Access to these resources can help patients cope with the emotional and psychological challenges of breast cancer.

**Primary Care Availability in Macon, Mississippi**

The Breast Cancer Score for Macon, Mississippi, expands the scope to assess the broader primary care landscape. Primary care physicians are often the first point of contact for patients, and their ability to provide preventive care, including breast cancer screening, is crucial. We begin by analyzing the physician-to-patient ratio for PCPs in Macon and the surrounding areas. A higher ratio indicates better access to primary care.

We must assess the availability of PCPs accepting new patients. This is a critical factor, as a shortage of available PCPs can hinder timely access to care. We also need to evaluate the quality of primary care services, including the availability of preventive screenings, such as mammograms, and the use of evidence-based guidelines for breast cancer screening and diagnosis.

The presence of patient-centered medical homes (PCMHs) is a positive indicator. PCMHs emphasize coordinated, comprehensive care, and can improve patient outcomes. We need to identify if any PCMHs are operating in Macon and assess their services.

Telemedicine plays a significant role in expanding access to primary care in rural areas. We need to identify if local PCPs offer telemedicine consultations, especially for follow-up appointments and medication management. The availability of telehealth for mental health support is also crucial.

**Standout Practices and Resources**

While a comprehensive list is not the goal, it's important to highlight any standout practices or resources that contribute to a higher Breast Cancer Score. This might include:

* **Breast Cancer Centers:** Identify any dedicated breast cancer centers in or near 39341 or Macon.
* **Accredited Hospitals:** Note any hospitals with ACS accreditation for breast centers.
* **Telemedicine Champions:** Identify practices actively using telemedicine for breast cancer care.
* **Mental Health Integration:** Highlight practices that integrate mental health services into their cancer care.
* **Support Groups:** Mention any active breast cancer support groups in the area.

**Overall Assessment and Conclusion**

The Breast Cancer Score is a dynamic metric that reflects the current state of breast cancer care in a specific area. It's important to note that this analysis provides a general overview. A complete evaluation would require detailed data collection and analysis. However, the framework provides a starting point for assessing the availability and quality of breast cancer care.

For residents of 39341 and Macon, this analysis underscores the importance of:

* **Proactive Screening:** Regular mammograms and clinical breast exams are essential.
* **Early Detection:** Familiarize yourself with your body and report any changes to your doctor.
* **Seeking Second Opinions:** Don't hesitate to seek a second opinion if you have concerns.
* **Advocating for Resources:** Support efforts to improve access to breast cancer care in your community.

To gain a visual understanding of healthcare provider locations, access to diagnostic services, and other relevant factors, we invite you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome can visually represent the data discussed in this analysis, offering a comprehensive and interactive view of the breast cancer care landscape in 39341 and Macon.