38967, Winona, Mississippi Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 38967, Winona, Mississippi is 6 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.52 percent of the residents in 38967 has some form of health insurance. 50.68 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.56 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 38967 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,130 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 38967. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,311 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 88 health care providers accessible to residents in 38967, Winona, Mississippi.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Winona, Mississippi (ZIP Code 38967)

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of healthcare resources in Winona, Mississippi (ZIP code 38967), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and patient support. The goal is to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" perspective, considering primary care access, physician density, telemedicine integration, and mental health support – all crucial elements in navigating a challenging diagnosis like lung cancer.

Winona, a town in Montgomery County, faces the typical challenges of rural healthcare access. A key consideration is the physician-to-patient ratio. While precise figures fluctuate, rural areas generally have a lower concentration of physicians per capita compared to urban centers. This scarcity impacts access to timely primary care, a critical factor in early lung cancer detection. Early detection, through screenings and prompt diagnosis, significantly improves patient outcomes. A low physician-to-patient ratio may necessitate longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial diagnostic procedures like chest X-rays or CT scans.

Primary care availability is the cornerstone of this analysis. The number of primary care physicians (PCPs) actively practicing within the 38967 ZIP code, or in immediately adjacent areas, is a fundamental metric. The closer the proximity and the greater the number of PCPs, the better the initial access for patients experiencing symptoms suggestive of lung cancer. These physicians are often the first point of contact, responsible for initial assessments, ordering diagnostic tests, and referring patients to specialists if necessary. Any limitation in this primary care access directly impacts the efficiency of the entire care pathway.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is equally important. This involves evaluating the presence of patient-centered medical homes, the adoption of electronic health records (EHRs), and the availability of preventative services. Patient-centered medical homes emphasize coordinated care, proactive screening, and patient education – all essential in lung cancer prevention and management. EHRs facilitate information sharing between providers, improving communication and reducing the risk of errors. The availability of smoking cessation programs within the primary care setting is also a crucial factor, as smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer.

Identifying standout practices within the Winona area is essential. These practices demonstrate a commitment to providing high-quality, accessible care. Their adoption of best practices, such as regular staff training in lung cancer screening guidelines, proactive patient outreach for screening eligibility, and streamlined referral pathways to specialists, are key differentiators. These practices often serve as models for others to emulate, contributing to the overall improvement of healthcare quality within the community.

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly important, especially in rural settings. Telemedicine offers opportunities to overcome geographical barriers and improve access to specialized care. The availability of telehealth consultations with pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists can significantly benefit lung cancer patients. These consultations can facilitate timely diagnosis, treatment planning, and ongoing monitoring. The presence of telemedicine capabilities within primary care practices is particularly valuable, allowing for remote consultations and follow-up appointments.

Mental health resources are a critical, often overlooked, aspect of lung cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally and psychologically challenging. The availability of mental health services, including counseling, support groups, and psychiatric care, is crucial for patients and their families. Assessing the proximity of mental health providers, the availability of specialized support groups for cancer patients, and the integration of mental health services within primary care practices are vital components of this analysis.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Winona, Mississippi, is ultimately a composite of these factors. It reflects the overall accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of healthcare resources available to patients in the area. A higher score indicates better access to care, more robust support systems, and a greater likelihood of positive patient outcomes. A lower score highlights areas needing improvement, such as increasing the number of primary care physicians, expanding telemedicine capabilities, and enhancing mental health services.

This analysis underscores the complex interplay of factors that influence lung cancer care in a rural setting. It is a snapshot in time, subject to change as healthcare landscapes evolve. The information provided can be used to identify areas for improvement and to advocate for resources that enhance the quality of care for individuals affected by lung cancer in Winona and surrounding communities.

To gain a more detailed understanding of the healthcare landscape in Winona, including the precise locations of medical facilities, physician specialties, and resource availability, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that visualize healthcare data, allowing you to explore the distribution of resources, identify potential gaps in care, and make informed decisions about your healthcare options.