39402, Hattiesburg, Mississippi Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 39402, Hattiesburg, Mississippi is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.70 percent of the residents in 39402 has some form of health insurance. 32.41 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.53 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 39402 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 10,742 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 30 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39402. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 6,870 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 8,591 health care providers accessible to residents in 39402, Hattiesburg, Mississippi.

Analyzing breast cancer care within ZIP code 39402, encompassing Hattiesburg, Mississippi, requires a multifaceted approach. It involves evaluating the availability and quality of primary care physicians, the presence of specialized breast cancer care, and the integration of supportive services. This analysis aims to provide an informed perspective on the healthcare landscape in this area, focusing on factors crucial for patient outcomes.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of healthcare access. In Hattiesburg, like many areas, this ratio fluctuates. While precise, real-time data is often proprietary, publicly available sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) can offer estimates. A lower ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can potentially lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and challenges in early detection and ongoing management. The availability of primary care physicians serves as the initial gateway to healthcare, particularly for breast cancer screening and early detection.

Primary care availability in Hattiesburg is a critical factor. Access to primary care physicians who are knowledgeable about breast cancer risk factors, screening guidelines, and referral pathways is essential. These physicians often act as the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms or seeking preventative care. The presence of a robust primary care network can significantly improve early detection rates, leading to better prognosis and increased survival rates. Assessing the number of primary care practices, the acceptance of new patients, and the availability of same-day or next-day appointments are crucial elements of this evaluation.

Standout practices within ZIP code 39402 are those that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive breast cancer care. This includes practices with board-certified oncologists, surgeons specializing in breast procedures, and access to advanced imaging technologies like 3D mammography and MRI. Practices that offer multidisciplinary care, bringing together various specialists to collaborate on patient treatment plans, often provide superior outcomes. The presence of dedicated breast cancer centers or clinics, which provide specialized care and support services, is a significant advantage.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, especially in areas with geographic limitations. Telemedicine allows patients to access healthcare services remotely, including consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational resources. The extent of telemedicine adoption among primary care physicians and specialists in Hattiesburg can affect the accessibility of care, particularly for patients who may have difficulty traveling to appointments. Practices that embrace telemedicine can potentially improve patient convenience and reduce healthcare disparities.

Mental health resources are a vital component of breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health services, such as counseling, support groups, and psychiatric care, is essential for supporting patients throughout their treatment journey. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care model demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care, addressing the psychological and emotional needs of individuals.

The presence of resources like patient navigators is another crucial aspect. Patient navigators assist patients in navigating the complex healthcare system, coordinating appointments, providing education, and offering emotional support. They serve as advocates for patients, ensuring they receive timely and appropriate care. The availability of patient navigators can improve patient satisfaction and outcomes.

Furthermore, assessing the availability of financial assistance programs, such as those offered by cancer organizations or government agencies, is important. Breast cancer treatment can be expensive, and financial burdens can create significant stress for patients. Practices that help patients access financial resources can improve their ability to adhere to treatment plans and improve their overall well-being.

Evaluating the quality of care involves looking at factors such as patient outcomes, adherence to treatment guidelines, and patient satisfaction. This information can be obtained from various sources, including hospital quality reports, patient surveys, and publicly available data from healthcare organizations. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to quality improvement and continuously strive to enhance patient care are considered to be superior.

The integration of supportive services beyond medical treatment is also significant. These services include physical therapy, nutritional counseling, and survivorship programs. Physical therapy can help patients manage the physical side effects of treatment, such as lymphedema. Nutritional counseling can help patients make healthy lifestyle choices. Survivorship programs provide ongoing support and resources for patients after treatment.

In conclusion, evaluating breast cancer care in ZIP code 39402 requires a comprehensive analysis of multiple factors. This includes physician-to-patient ratios, the availability of primary care physicians, the presence of specialized breast cancer care, telemedicine adoption, the availability of mental health resources, and the integration of supportive services. While the healthcare landscape is dynamic, understanding these factors provides valuable insights into the quality and accessibility of care for patients in Hattiesburg.

To further explore the healthcare landscape in Hattiesburg and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps provide a powerful tool for visualizing and analyzing geographic data, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of healthcare access and identify areas for improvement.