39090, Kosciusko, Mississippi Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 39090, Kosciusko, Mississippi is 8 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.71 percent of the residents in 39090 has some form of health insurance. 49.42 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 53.01 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 39090 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,656 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39090. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,217 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 407 health care providers accessible to residents in 39090, Kosciusko, Mississippi.

The assessment of lung cancer care quality within a specific geographic area necessitates a multi-faceted approach. This analysis focuses on the ZIP Code 39090 (Kosciusko, Mississippi) and its primary care landscape, aiming to provide a ‘Lung Cancer Score’ based on available data and inferred characteristics. The score will reflect the accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of care, with a particular emphasis on factors relevant to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and patient support.

The foundation of any effective lung cancer care system rests on the availability of primary care physicians. ZIP Code 39090, being a relatively rural area, likely faces challenges in this regard. Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator. A low ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, can lead to delayed diagnoses, reduced access to preventative screenings, and overall poorer health outcomes. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or the Mississippi State Department of Health would be crucial in determining the actual physician-to-patient ratio in Kosciusko. This data point alone significantly influences the initial score.

Beyond mere numbers, the distribution of primary care physicians is vital. Are the doctors concentrated in a single clinic, or are they spread throughout the community? Accessibility is compromised if patients must travel long distances to see a physician. The location of clinics, their hours of operation, and their acceptance of various insurance plans all play a role in the overall score. Furthermore, the presence of a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) or other safety-net providers would positively impact the score, as these facilities often serve vulnerable populations and offer comprehensive services.

Within the primary care setting, the emphasis on preventative care is paramount. Early detection is key to improving lung cancer survival rates. The implementation of lung cancer screening programs, particularly for high-risk individuals (smokers or former smokers), is a crucial element. Practices that actively promote and facilitate these screenings, adhering to the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) guidelines, will receive higher marks. The availability of spirometry testing, a common diagnostic tool for respiratory issues, would also be considered.

The ‘Lung Cancer Score’ also needs to consider the availability of specialists. While primary care physicians are the first point of contact, access to pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons is essential for diagnosis and treatment. The proximity of specialists to Kosciusko is a critical factor. Patients who must travel long distances for specialist consultations or treatments face significant burdens, impacting their quality of life and potentially delaying care. The presence of a local hospital with a dedicated oncology department or affiliation with a larger cancer center would positively influence the score.

Standout practices within ZIP Code 39090, if any, could significantly elevate the overall score. These practices would be characterized by several factors. They would likely demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, offering extended hours, same-day appointments, and a welcoming environment. They might utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively, improving communication and coordination of care. Practices with a demonstrated focus on preventative care, including smoking cessation programs, would also be highly regarded. The integration of patient navigators, individuals who assist patients in navigating the complexities of the healthcare system, would be another positive indicator.

The adoption of telemedicine is another crucial element. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, providing access to specialists and follow-up care for patients who may struggle to travel. Practices that offer telehealth consultations, remote monitoring, or virtual support groups would receive higher marks. The availability of telehealth platforms for mental health services, particularly important for cancer patients, would be a significant advantage.

Mental health resources are a critical component of comprehensive cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is essential. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care model, either through on-site providers or referrals to external resources, would receive higher marks. The presence of support groups, both in-person and virtual, would further enhance the score.

Beyond clinical care, the overall quality of life for lung cancer patients is important. The availability of supportive services, such as palliative care, pain management, and financial assistance programs, is crucial. Hospitals or clinics that partner with organizations like the American Cancer Society or the Lung Cancer Research Foundation would demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive patient support.

The ‘Lung Cancer Score’ for ZIP Code 39090, therefore, is a composite measure, reflecting the interplay of various factors. The final score would be determined by evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio, the accessibility of primary care and specialist services, the implementation of preventative care strategies, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the presence of supportive services. Without access to specific, up-to-date data, a precise numerical score is impossible. However, the framework outlined here provides a basis for a comprehensive assessment.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Kosciusko and visualize the distribution of healthcare providers, access to interactive mapping tools is essential. CartoChrome maps provide powerful visualization capabilities, allowing you to explore the location of physicians, hospitals, and other healthcare resources within ZIP Code 39090 and surrounding areas. Explore the data and discover the insights that matter most to you.