39520, Bay Saint Louis, Mississippi Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 39520, Bay Saint Louis, Mississippi is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.40 percent of the residents in 39520 has some form of health insurance. 42.17 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.59 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 39520 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,118 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39520. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,017 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,882 health care providers accessible to residents in 39520, Bay Saint Louis, Mississippi.

Breast cancer is a pervasive disease, and access to quality healthcare is paramount in its detection and treatment. This analysis delves into the healthcare landscape of Bay Saint Louis, Mississippi, focusing on primary care availability and the quality of care provided by physicians in the 39520 ZIP code, with a particular emphasis on breast cancer-related services. We will assess the availability of primary care physicians, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, providing a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" assessment.

The foundation of any effective breast cancer care pathway lies in accessible and proficient primary care. Bay Saint Louis, a coastal community, experiences fluctuations in its population, which can impact healthcare resource availability. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio in the area is critical. This ratio reflects the number of patients each physician is responsible for, indicating potential strain on the system if the ratio is high. A low ratio suggests better access to care, allowing for more personalized attention and potentially earlier detection of potential issues.

Data from reliable sources, such as the Mississippi State Department of Health and the U.S. Census Bureau, is essential for determining the physician-to-patient ratio. This data would include the number of practicing primary care physicians (PCPs) within the 39520 ZIP code and the estimated population served. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, would negatively impact the "Breast Cancer Score." Conversely, a lower ratio would contribute positively.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is crucial. This involves evaluating the practices of physicians in the area. We need to assess their commitment to preventive care, including routine mammograms and breast cancer screenings. The availability of electronic health records (EHRs) is another important factor. EHRs facilitate efficient information sharing between physicians and specialists, crucial for coordinating breast cancer care. Practices that utilize EHRs and demonstrate a proactive approach to preventive care would receive a higher score.

Standout practices in Bay Saint Louis would be those that go above and beyond standard care. This could involve offering extended hours, providing patient navigators to guide individuals through the complexities of the healthcare system, or actively participating in community outreach programs to raise awareness about breast cancer and screening guidelines. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient education and empowerment would also be highly regarded.

Telemedicine has rapidly evolved, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Its adoption in Bay Saint Louis is an important factor. Telemedicine offers patients convenient access to consultations, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring. This is especially beneficial for individuals who may face transportation challenges or have mobility issues. Practices that offer telemedicine services, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations, would receive a higher score. The availability of telehealth for breast cancer-related concerns, such as discussing screening results or providing emotional support, would be particularly valuable.

The emotional toll of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment is significant. The integration of mental health resources into the care pathway is therefore essential. Practices that have partnerships with mental health professionals, offer on-site counseling, or provide referrals to support groups would receive a higher score. The availability of mental health services is an important aspect of the "Breast Cancer Score." This includes access to psychologists, psychiatrists, and support groups specializing in cancer-related issues.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for physicians in the 39520 ZIP code would be a composite score based on these factors. The score would be calculated using a weighted system, with each factor assigned a specific weight based on its importance. For instance, the physician-to-patient ratio and the availability of primary care would be given a higher weight than the adoption of telemedicine. The final score would provide a valuable snapshot of the healthcare landscape in Bay Saint Louis, highlighting areas of strength and areas where improvements are needed.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not just a numerical ranking. It is a tool for empowering patients. By providing a clear picture of the healthcare landscape, it allows individuals to make informed decisions about their care. It also provides valuable insights for healthcare providers, enabling them to identify areas for improvement and enhance the quality of care they provide.

This assessment would be an ongoing process. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, with new technologies and approaches emerging regularly. Regularly updating the "Breast Cancer Score" would ensure its continued relevance and usefulness. This would involve collecting and analyzing data on an ongoing basis, incorporating new information, and refining the scoring methodology as needed.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Bay Saint Louis would reflect the commitment of the community to providing high-quality breast cancer care. It would be a testament to the dedication of physicians, healthcare providers, and community organizations working together to improve the health and well-being of residents. This score is a dynamic tool that can be used to advocate for better resources, improve patient outcomes, and ultimately, save lives.

The insights gleaned from this analysis can be further enhanced through visualization. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful way to represent the data spatially. By mapping the locations of physicians, healthcare facilities, and support services, CartoChrome maps can reveal patterns and disparities in access to care. They can also be used to identify areas where resources are needed most. CartoChrome maps can also be used to visualize the "Breast Cancer Score" itself, providing a clear and intuitive overview of the healthcare landscape.

Explore the healthcare landscape of Bay Saint Louis and gain a deeper understanding of access to breast cancer care. Use CartoChrome maps to visualize the data and make informed decisions about your health.