39040, Bentonia, Mississippi Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 39040, Bentonia, Mississippi is 17 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.60 percent of the residents in 39040 has some form of health insurance. 51.56 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 48.01 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 39040 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,026 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39040. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 792 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 188 health care providers accessible to residents in 39040, Bentonia, Mississippi.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Bentonia, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39040)

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for physicians and primary care resources within Bentonia, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39040), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and patient support. The assessment considers physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health resources, ultimately offering a nuanced view of the local healthcare landscape.

Bentonia, a small community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. The remoteness and limited population density often translate to fewer healthcare providers and resource constraints. This analysis acknowledges these realities while striving to identify areas of strength and areas requiring improvement. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the environment for lung cancer patients and those at risk.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Primary Care Availability:**

One of the most critical indicators of healthcare access is the physician-to-patient ratio. In Bentonia, the ratio is likely to be significantly higher than the national average, indicating a potential shortage of primary care physicians (PCPs). This scarcity can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and delayed diagnoses.

Primary care availability is a cornerstone of early lung cancer detection. PCPs are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms like persistent cough, shortness of breath, or chest pain. Their ability to conduct thorough examinations, order necessary diagnostic tests (such as chest X-rays or CT scans), and refer patients to specialists is paramount. Limited primary care availability directly impacts the ability to catch lung cancer at its earliest, most treatable stages.

The number of practicing PCPs within the ZIP code is a crucial data point. Further investigation into the number of active providers, their patient load, and their acceptance of new patients is essential. This information would help to quantify the true accessibility of primary care services in Bentonia.

**Standout Practices and Their Characteristics:**

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors, including the quality of care, the breadth of services offered, and the integration of technology. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to preventative care, including smoking cessation programs and lung cancer screening, deserve recognition.

Practices that offer on-site diagnostic services, such as X-rays, can significantly improve patient convenience and reduce the time to diagnosis. The availability of a dedicated pulmonologist or a practice with a strong referral network to pulmonologists and oncologists is a significant advantage for patients.

The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) is another crucial factor. EHRs facilitate better communication between providers, improve care coordination, and allow for the efficient tracking of patient data, including screening results and treatment plans. Practices that have fully embraced EHRs are better positioned to provide comprehensive and coordinated care.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Impact:**

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for expanding access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption within Bentonia's healthcare system can significantly impact lung cancer care. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations with specialists, provide access to remote monitoring services, and offer support groups or counseling sessions for patients.

The availability of telemedicine appointments for primary care visits and specialist consultations can reduce the burden of travel for patients, especially those with mobility issues or limited transportation options. The ability to remotely monitor patients' symptoms and medication adherence can also improve outcomes.

The types of telemedicine services offered are important. Are virtual consultations available with pulmonologists or oncologists? Are there remote monitoring programs for patients undergoing treatment? These details paint a more complete picture of telemedicine's impact.

**Mental Health Resources and Their Significance:**

A lung cancer diagnosis can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Anxiety, depression, and fear are common experiences. The availability of mental health resources is therefore critical for supporting patients throughout their journey.

The presence of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within the community or accessible through referral networks is essential. The availability of support groups, either in-person or virtual, can provide patients with a valuable source of peer support and shared experiences.

The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan is also important. Do primary care practices screen for mental health issues? Are patients routinely referred to mental health professionals when needed? Addressing the psychological needs of patients is an integral part of holistic cancer care.

**Conclusion and Actionable Insights:**

The Lung Cancer Score for Bentonia, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39040) is likely to be impacted by the limited resources inherent in a rural setting. The physician-to-patient ratio is a key area for concern, potentially hindering access to timely diagnoses and preventative care. The identification of standout practices, those that have embraced technology and provide comprehensive services, is crucial. Telemedicine adoption offers a significant opportunity to improve access to care and support patients. The availability of mental health resources is essential for addressing the emotional and psychological needs of patients.

This analysis highlights the importance of strengthening the local healthcare infrastructure to improve lung cancer outcomes. Efforts to recruit and retain primary care physicians, expand access to telemedicine services, and integrate mental health support are critical.

**Call to Action:**

To gain a more detailed understanding of the healthcare landscape in Bentonia, Mississippi, and to identify specific practices and resources, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps and data visualizations available on CartoChrome. CartoChrome provides valuable insights into healthcare access, physician availability, and other relevant factors, empowering you to make informed decisions about your health and the health of your community.