39525, Diamondhead, Mississippi Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 39525, Diamondhead, Mississippi is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.34 percent of the residents in 39525 has some form of health insurance. 35.17 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 77.38 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 39525 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,771 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39525. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,294 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,994 health care providers accessible to residents in 39525, Diamondhead, Mississippi.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Diamondhead, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39525)

Analyzing the availability and quality of breast cancer care within Diamondhead, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39525) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into key factors influencing patient outcomes, including physician accessibility, practice quality, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health support. The goal is to provide a comprehensive 'Breast Cancer Score' assessment, highlighting strengths and weaknesses within the local healthcare landscape. This analysis will not provide a numerical score, but instead offer a qualitative understanding.

**Physician Accessibility and Physician-to-Patient Ratios**

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on the availability of qualified physicians. In Diamondhead, the primary challenge is likely access to specialists. The geographic location, while offering a desirable lifestyle, can pose a hurdle in recruiting and retaining specialists, particularly oncologists and breast surgeons. The physician-to-patient ratio for these specialists is a crucial indicator. A low ratio, indicating fewer specialists per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and potential treatment delays.

Information on the physician-to-patient ratio can be found through the Mississippi State Medical Association, local hospital systems (e.g., Memorial Hospital at Gulfport, Ochsner Medical Center), and potentially through the Mississippi State Department of Health. Gathering this data is the first step. Diamondhead's proximity to larger cities like Gulfport and New Orleans, however, might offset some of the challenges. Patients may be able to access specialists in these areas, although this introduces considerations of travel time and transportation costs.

**Standout Practices and Quality of Care**

Identifying standout practices involves assessing various factors. This includes the experience and expertise of physicians, the availability of advanced diagnostic tools (e.g., 3D mammography, MRI), and the integration of multidisciplinary care. Practices that offer comprehensive services, including surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and reconstructive surgery, are generally considered to provide a higher standard of care.

Researching local practices involves examining their websites, reading patient reviews (while acknowledging their limitations), and contacting them directly to inquire about their services. Accreditation by organizations like the American College of Surgeons (for breast centers) and the Commission on Cancer (for cancer programs) is a significant indicator of quality. These accreditations signify adherence to rigorous standards of care and a commitment to continuous improvement. Furthermore, the practice's participation in clinical trials and research programs can indicate a commitment to staying at the forefront of breast cancer treatment.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact**

Telemedicine has the potential to significantly improve access to care, especially in areas with limited specialist availability. The adoption of telemedicine by local practices is a critical factor in the 'Breast Cancer Score' assessment. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits, particularly for patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

Assessing telemedicine adoption requires determining which practices offer virtual consultations, the types of services offered via telemedicine (e.g., initial consultations, follow-up appointments, medication management), and the ease of use of the telemedicine platform. Information on telemedicine adoption can be found on practice websites, through direct inquiries, and by reviewing patient testimonials. The availability of reliable internet access in Diamondhead is also a crucial consideration, as it is a prerequisite for effective telemedicine utilization.

**Mental Health Resources and 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 is a vital component of comprehensive breast cancer care. This includes access to therapists, counselors, support groups, and psychiatric services.

Evaluating mental health resources involves identifying local mental health providers, assessing their experience in treating cancer patients, and determining the availability of support groups specifically for breast cancer survivors. Information can be found through local hospitals, cancer support organizations (e.g., American Cancer Society, Susan G. Komen), and mental health directories. The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan, such as offering on-site counseling or referrals to mental health professionals, is a significant advantage.

**Primary Care Availability in Diamondhead**

The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is crucial for overall health management and plays a role in breast cancer care. PCPs often serve as the initial point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms or seeking preventative care, such as mammograms. A shortage of PCPs can lead to delayed diagnoses and reduced access to preventative screenings.

Assessing primary care availability involves evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio for PCPs in Diamondhead, the ease of scheduling appointments, and the availability of after-hours care. Information can be obtained from local hospitals, medical groups, and the Mississippi State Medical Association. The ability of PCPs to coordinate care with specialists and provide ongoing support to patients undergoing breast cancer treatment is also important.

**Conclusion**

Evaluating the 'Breast Cancer Score' for Diamondhead, Mississippi, requires a careful consideration of physician accessibility, practice quality, telemedicine integration, mental health resources, and primary care availability. While the proximity to larger cities may offer some advantages, the specific challenges of the local healthcare landscape must be addressed. The availability of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health services are critical factors in determining the quality of care available to breast cancer patients.

To gain a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of healthcare resources and patient access within Diamondhead and surrounding areas, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can visually represent physician locations, hospital locations, and other relevant data, providing a valuable tool for assessing healthcare accessibility and identifying areas where resources may be lacking.