39364, Toomsuba, Mississippi Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 39364, Toomsuba, Mississippi is 80 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.13 percent of the residents in 39364 has some form of health insurance. 55.64 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.03 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 39364 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 538 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39364. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 880 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 175 health care providers accessible to residents in 39364, Toomsuba, Mississippi.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in 39364 & Primary Care in Toomsuba

Analyzing the availability and quality of breast cancer care within ZIP code 39364, encompassing the area around Toomsuba, Mississippi, requires a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare landscape. This analysis will delve into several key areas, offering a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment based on available data and contextual understanding. The score is not a single numerical value but a qualitative assessment considering various factors.

**Primary Care Availability & Physician-to-Patient Ratios:**

The foundation of good breast cancer care rests on accessible primary care. Early detection through routine screenings and prompt referrals are crucial. Examining physician-to-patient ratios in Toomsuba and the surrounding area is paramount. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of primary care physicians, can significantly hinder access to care. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and ultimately, poorer outcomes for patients. Publicly available data, such as that from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), can provide insights into these ratios. Furthermore, understanding the demographics of the population served by these physicians is vital. Are there underserved populations, such as those with lower incomes or limited access to transportation, who face additional barriers to care?

**Standout Practices & Provider Quality:**

Identifying standout practices within the 39364 ZIP code requires evaluating several factors. This includes the presence of board-certified physicians, the availability of comprehensive services (e.g., mammography, ultrasound, biopsies), and the practice's commitment to patient education and support. The practice’s use of electronic health records (EHRs) and its integration with regional healthcare networks are also crucial. EHRs facilitate seamless information sharing, improving care coordination and reducing the potential for medical errors. Practices with strong reputations for patient satisfaction, as evidenced by online reviews and patient testimonials, should be prioritized. Furthermore, understanding the practice's participation in quality improvement initiatives, such as those promoted by the American Cancer Society or the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC), can provide valuable insights into its commitment to excellence.

**Mammography Access & Screening Rates:**

Access to mammography services is a critical component of breast cancer care. The availability of screening facilities within the 39364 ZIP code, and the surrounding area, is a crucial factor. This includes not only the physical presence of mammography machines but also the affordability of these services, the availability of financial assistance programs, and the ease of scheduling appointments. Screening rates within the community are also a key indicator of care quality. Low screening rates might suggest barriers to access, lack of awareness, or other systemic issues. Public health data, local health department reports, and data from healthcare providers can provide insights into these rates.

**Telemedicine Adoption & Its Impact:**

Telemedicine has the potential to significantly improve access to breast cancer care, particularly in rural areas like Toomsuba. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care physicians and specialists can reduce travel burdens, improve access to consultations, and facilitate remote monitoring of patients. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption within the 39364 ZIP code requires examining the availability of telehealth platforms, the willingness of physicians to utilize these technologies, and the reimbursement policies of insurance providers. Telemedicine can be particularly valuable for follow-up appointments, providing emotional support, and delivering educational resources to patients.

**Mental Health Resources & Patient Support:**

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. The availability of mental health resources and support services is, therefore, an essential component of comprehensive care. This includes access to therapists, counselors, support groups, and other mental health professionals. Assessing the availability of these resources requires identifying local mental health providers, understanding their expertise in oncology-related issues, and evaluating the accessibility of their services. Furthermore, the integration of mental health services into the overall care plan is crucial. This might involve referrals from primary care physicians or specialists, the availability of on-site counseling, or the integration of mental health support into telemedicine platforms.

**Care Coordination & Referral Networks:**

Effective care coordination is vital for ensuring patients receive timely and appropriate care. This involves seamless communication between primary care physicians, specialists, radiologists, surgeons, and other healthcare professionals. Assessing the level of care coordination within the 39364 ZIP code requires examining the existence of established referral networks, the use of shared electronic health records, and the frequency of communication between providers. Practices with strong care coordination mechanisms are better equipped to manage complex cases, reduce the risk of medical errors, and improve patient outcomes.

**Overall Breast Cancer Score Assessment:**

Based on the factors outlined above, the "Breast Cancer Score" for the 39364 ZIP code is best described as **moderate, with areas for improvement.** While the presence of some primary care providers and basic healthcare facilities suggests a foundation for care, the limited population density of Toomsuba, and the rural nature of the area, likely presents challenges in accessing specialized services. The physician-to-patient ratio may be a concern, potentially leading to longer wait times and limited access to primary care. The availability of mammography and screening services is a critical factor, as is the level of telemedicine adoption. The presence of mental health resources and support groups is also a critical aspect. Further investigation into these areas is needed to create a complete picture.

**Call to Action:**

To gain a more detailed understanding of the healthcare landscape in 39364 and surrounding areas, including the location of healthcare providers, access to services, and demographic data, we recommend exploring the capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome's interactive mapping platform allows for visualizing healthcare data, identifying gaps in care, and making informed decisions about healthcare planning and resource allocation.