The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 39581, Pascagoula, Mississippi is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 84.11 percent of the residents in 39581 has some form of health insurance. 39.59 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 54.19 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 39581 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 3,310 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39581. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,529 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,606 health care providers accessible to residents in 39581, Pascagoula, Mississippi.
Health Scores in 39581, Pascagoula, Mississippi
Breast Cancer Score | 12 |
---|---|
People Score | 20 |
Provider Score | 55 |
Hospital Score | 25 |
Travel Score | 25 |
39581 | Pascagoula | Mississippi | |
---|---|---|---|
Providers per 10,000 residents | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Pediatricians per 10,000 residents under 18 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Geriatricians per 10,000 residents over 65 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Analyzing the landscape of breast cancer care within ZIP code 39581 (Pascagoula, Mississippi) necessitates a multi-faceted approach, considering not only the availability of medical professionals but also the broader healthcare ecosystem. This analysis aims to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, evaluating the accessibility and quality of care, with a particular focus on primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, and related resources. The final score is subjective, reflecting the interplay of various factors.
The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests upon robust primary care. Pascagoula, like many communities, faces challenges in primary care access. This is a critical factor, as primary care physicians (PCPs) often serve as the initial point of contact for patients, facilitating screenings, referrals, and early detection. A low PCP-to-patient ratio can lead to delayed diagnoses, impacting patient outcomes. Determining the exact ratio for 39581 requires data from sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and the Mississippi State Department of Health. However, anecdotal evidence and national trends suggest potential shortages, especially for underserved populations.
Physician-to-patient ratios are a crucial indicator of access. A higher ratio (fewer patients per physician) generally translates to better access and potentially more personalized care. In the context of breast cancer, this includes not only oncologists and surgeons but also radiologists specializing in mammography. Researching the number of specialists practicing within the ZIP code and comparing it to the population size is vital. Online directories, insurance provider websites, and local hospital listings are useful resources for this research. The availability of board-certified specialists is another key consideration.
Standout practices within Pascagoula would ideally demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive breast cancer care. This includes offering state-of-the-art diagnostic imaging (mammography, ultrasound, MRI), surgical options (lumpectomy, mastectomy), and access to medical and radiation oncology. Practices that participate in clinical trials and offer genetic counseling would further enhance their score. Identifying these practices requires investigating local hospital affiliations, researching physician credentials, and examining patient reviews and testimonials.
Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine can improve access to specialists, reduce travel burdens, and facilitate remote monitoring. The extent to which practices in 39581 utilize telemedicine for consultations, follow-up appointments, and patient education is a significant factor. Examining practice websites, inquiring directly with providers, and reviewing insurance coverage policies are ways to gauge telemedicine availability.
Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of breast cancer care. A diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally taxing. Practices that integrate mental health services, either directly or through referrals, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. This includes access to therapists, support groups, and resources for managing anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Investigating partnerships with mental health providers and evaluating the availability of support groups are essential.
Based on these factors, a hypothetical "Breast Cancer Score" for Pascagoula (39581) would be a composite assessment. A score of 1-10, with 10 being the best, could be assigned based on the following:
* **Primary Care Access (2 points):** Reflecting the PCP-to-patient ratio and the availability of same-day or next-day appointments.
* **Specialist Availability (3 points):** Considering the number of oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists, and their board certifications.
* **Practice Quality (3 points):** Assessing the availability of advanced imaging, surgical options, clinical trial participation, and genetic counseling.
* **Telemedicine Integration (1 point):** Evaluating the extent of telemedicine adoption for consultations and follow-up.
* **Mental Health Support (1 point):** Examining the availability of mental health services and support groups.
The final score would represent a snapshot of the current state of breast cancer care in the area. It is important to note that this score is a starting point and should be continually updated as the healthcare landscape evolves.
The analysis also needs to consider the broader context of healthcare in Pascagoula. This includes the presence of a hospital, the availability of transportation for patients, and the socioeconomic factors that may impact access to care. For example, the existence of a hospital with a dedicated cancer center would significantly boost the score. The availability of public transportation or patient navigation services can also improve access for those with limited resources.
Socioeconomic factors, such as income levels, insurance coverage, and educational attainment, can also influence access to care. Areas with higher rates of poverty and lower rates of insurance coverage may face greater challenges in accessing timely and appropriate breast cancer care. Addressing these disparities requires community-based initiatives, outreach programs, and financial assistance for patients.
In conclusion, assessing the breast cancer care landscape in Pascagoula (39581) requires a comprehensive evaluation of primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, specialist access, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. A composite "Breast Cancer Score" can provide a useful framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system. This score should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape.
For a more detailed visualization of the healthcare landscape in Pascagoula and surrounding areas, including the location of medical facilities, patient demographics, and other relevant data, consider utilizing the mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps can offer a powerful tool for visualizing and analyzing healthcare data, enabling a deeper understanding of access to care and identifying areas for improvement.
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