39067, Ethel, Mississippi Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 39067, Ethel, Mississippi is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.18 percent of the residents in 39067 has some form of health insurance. 51.70 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 54.41 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 39067 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 310 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39067. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 250 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 358 health care providers accessible to residents in 39067, Ethel, Mississippi.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Ethel, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39067)**

This analysis assesses the healthcare landscape within and around Ethel, Mississippi (ZIP code 39067), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and patient support. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the resources available to residents, considering physician availability, technology adoption, and mental health support, all critical elements in navigating a lung cancer diagnosis. This analysis doesn’t provide medical advice.

Ethel, Mississippi, is a rural community. The healthcare infrastructure reflects this reality, presenting both challenges and opportunities. The availability of primary care physicians forms the bedrock of early detection and referral pathways for lung cancer. The physician-to-patient ratio is a key metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. Data on the precise physician-to-patient ratio in Ethel specifically is not readily available. However, it's reasonable to assume, given the rural setting, that the ratio is likely less favorable than in more urban areas. This highlights the importance of optimizing the existing resources and exploring innovative solutions.

Primary care availability in Ethel is a critical factor. The presence of local primary care practices is vital for providing routine checkups, screening for risk factors (such as smoking history), and initiating the diagnostic process if lung cancer is suspected. The accessibility of these practices, including their hours of operation, insurance acceptance, and the ease of scheduling appointments, significantly impacts the community's ability to receive timely care. Furthermore, the quality of primary care is also a critical factor. Practices that emphasize preventative care, patient education, and a strong referral network are better equipped to manage lung cancer cases.

The adoption of telemedicine is a significant factor in improving access to care in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially shortening the time to diagnosis and treatment. The extent of telemedicine adoption among primary care physicians and specialists serving Ethel is an important indicator of the community's healthcare readiness. Practices that embrace telemedicine are better positioned to connect patients with the expertise they need, regardless of their geographical location.

Mental health resources are often overlooked, yet they are crucial for patients facing a lung cancer diagnosis. The emotional and psychological toll of the disease, coupled with the stress of treatment, can be significant. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in oncology, is a critical component of comprehensive care. The presence of support groups, both in-person and online, can provide patients with a sense of community and shared experience, which is invaluable during a difficult time.

Standout practices are those that demonstrate a commitment to providing high-quality, patient-centered care. These practices often have a strong focus on preventative care, early detection, and patient education. They may also have established relationships with specialists, ensuring seamless referrals and coordinated care. Additionally, standout practices may prioritize patient communication, providing clear and concise information about diagnosis, treatment options, and support services.

The presence of specialists, particularly pulmonologists and oncologists, within a reasonable distance of Ethel is crucial. While primary care physicians can initiate the diagnostic process, specialists are essential for providing expert care and treatment. The availability of these specialists, as well as access to diagnostic imaging services (such as CT scans), significantly impacts the prognosis for lung cancer patients. The travel time to these specialists and facilities is a factor in this assessment.

The availability of support services, such as smoking cessation programs, is also relevant. These programs can help individuals quit smoking, reducing their risk of developing lung cancer and improving their overall health. The effectiveness of these programs, as well as their accessibility to the community, is an important consideration.

The overall assessment of the healthcare landscape in and around Ethel, Mississippi, reveals a complex picture. While the rural setting presents challenges in terms of physician availability and access to specialized care, the community's healthcare readiness depends on a variety of factors. The adoption of telemedicine, the presence of supportive mental health resources, and the commitment of primary care practices to providing high-quality, patient-centered care are all essential elements in improving outcomes for lung cancer patients.

For a comprehensive visual representation of the healthcare resources available in Ethel, Mississippi, and surrounding areas, including the locations of physicians, specialists, and support services, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome can provide a detailed, interactive map of the healthcare landscape.