39083, Hazlehurst, Mississippi Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 39083, Hazlehurst, Mississippi is 13 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.96 percent of the residents in 39083 has some form of health insurance. 44.69 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 51.04 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 39083 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,471 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39083. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,536 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 194 health care providers accessible to residents in 39083, Hazlehurst, Mississippi.

The analysis focuses on lung cancer care within ZIP code 39083, specifically considering the availability of primary care resources in Hazlehurst, Mississippi. Evaluating healthcare access and quality involves a multi-faceted approach, scrutinizing physician availability, the presence of specialized services, and the integration of modern technologies. This analysis aims to provide an informed perspective on the landscape of lung cancer care within this specific geographical area.

Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical first step. Data from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, the Mississippi State Department of Health, and publicly available physician directories are crucial for this assessment. The ideal scenario involves a sufficient number of primary care physicians (PCPs) to serve the population, facilitating early detection and timely referrals. A low physician-to-patient ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. This is especially concerning in lung cancer, where early detection is vital for improved outcomes. The analysis will investigate the current ratio, comparing it to national and state averages to determine the relative accessibility of primary care in Hazlehurst.

Primary care serves as the gateway to specialized cancer care. The availability of PCPs directly impacts the ability of individuals to receive routine screenings, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, recommended for high-risk individuals. These scans can detect lung cancer at an earlier stage, significantly increasing the chances of successful treatment. The analysis will evaluate the number of PCPs within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas, considering the proximity of these providers to residents of Hazlehurst. Furthermore, the analysis will assess the availability of pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons in the broader region, as these specialists are essential for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care.

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive into individual clinic capabilities. This involves examining the services offered, including the availability of on-site diagnostic equipment, such as X-ray machines and CT scanners. Clinics that offer comprehensive services, including smoking cessation programs, are also highly valuable. The analysis will investigate whether any practices in or near 39083 are recognized for their commitment to patient care, their use of evidence-based practices, and their integration of supportive services. This may include assessing patient satisfaction scores, physician credentials, and participation in quality improvement initiatives.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to access specialist consultations, follow-up appointments, and even mental health services remotely. The analysis will investigate the extent to which local practices have adopted telemedicine platforms. This includes assessing the availability of virtual appointments, remote monitoring capabilities, and the integration of telehealth services into the overall care plan. The presence of telemedicine can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in remote areas.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but crucial component of cancer care. A cancer diagnosis can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional and psychological well-being. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is essential for supporting patients through the challenges of diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship. The analysis will investigate the availability of mental health services within the community, including the presence of mental health professionals within primary care practices, cancer centers, or community health organizations. It will also assess the availability of support groups and other resources that can help patients cope with the emotional and psychological effects of lung cancer.

The integration of these factors – physician-to-patient ratios, primary care access, specialist availability, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources – will lead to a comprehensive 'Lung Cancer Score' assessment. This score will reflect the overall quality and accessibility of lung cancer care within the designated area. The analysis will identify areas of strength and weakness, providing valuable insights for healthcare providers, policymakers, and patients. The ultimate goal is to provide a clear picture of the resources available and identify opportunities for improvement.

The analysis will also examine the prevalence of lung cancer risk factors within the population. This includes assessing smoking rates, exposure to environmental hazards, and other factors that may increase the risk of developing lung cancer. Understanding the prevalence of these risk factors can help inform targeted prevention and early detection efforts. The analysis will also consider the demographic characteristics of the population, such as age, race, and socioeconomic status, as these factors can influence access to care and health outcomes.

The analysis will also consider the availability of patient education and support resources. This includes access to information about lung cancer, treatment options, and support services. Patients who are well-informed about their condition and treatment plan are more likely to adhere to their treatment regimen and experience better outcomes. The analysis will investigate the availability of patient education materials, support groups, and other resources that can help patients navigate the challenges of lung cancer.

The findings of this analysis will be presented in a clear and concise manner, highlighting the key strengths and weaknesses of the lung cancer care landscape in ZIP code 39083. The analysis will provide actionable insights for healthcare providers, policymakers, and patients, helping them to make informed decisions about their care. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the resources available and to identify opportunities for improvement.

For a visual representation of the data, including the geographical distribution of healthcare providers, patient demographics, and other relevant factors, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome's interactive mapping capabilities can provide a dynamic and insightful view of the healthcare landscape in Hazlehurst and the surrounding areas.