39113, Mayersville, Mississippi Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 39113, Mayersville, Mississippi is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.49 percent of the residents in 39113 has some form of health insurance. 79.27 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 6.22 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 39113 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 39 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39113. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 29 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 33 health care providers accessible to residents in 39113, Mayersville, Mississippi.

## Lung Cancer Score: Mayersville, MS (ZIP Code 39113) – An Analysis

Analyzing the availability of lung cancer care within Mayersville, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39113) presents a complex challenge. This rural community, with a relatively small population, likely faces significant hurdles in accessing specialized medical care. This analysis focuses on the key factors influencing lung cancer care access, including physician availability, resource utilization, and the potential impact of telemedicine.

The primary concern revolves around the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) and specialists. A low physician-to-patient ratio directly translates to reduced access. Mayersville, being a rural area, probably struggles with this. A limited number of PCPs may be available, creating longer wait times for appointments and potentially delaying early detection and diagnosis of lung cancer. The absence of on-site pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons would necessitate travel to larger cities like Vicksburg or Jackson for specialized consultations, diagnostic procedures (like bronchoscopies and CT scans), and treatment. This travel burden can be particularly difficult for patients with limited mobility, financial constraints, or lack of transportation.

The absence of readily available specialists poses a significant challenge. Early detection of lung cancer hinges on timely access to specialists who can interpret diagnostic imaging and perform biopsies. The absence of these specialists in Mayersville means patients are likely referred out of the area, leading to delays in diagnosis and treatment. This situation is exacerbated by the fact that rural communities often have a higher proportion of older adults, a demographic at increased risk for lung cancer.

Standout practices, if any, in Mayersville, would be those that prioritize patient-centered care and actively work to overcome the challenges of rural healthcare. These practices might collaborate with specialists in nearby cities, facilitating referrals and communication. They might also offer extended hours or weekend appointments to improve accessibility. Furthermore, practices that emphasize patient education and preventive care, including smoking cessation programs, would be invaluable in this community. Unfortunately, the relative lack of resources in a rural area makes it less likely that such practices exist.

Telemedicine offers a promising solution to bridge the gap in healthcare access. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices and specialists could significantly improve lung cancer care in Mayersville. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially speeding up the diagnostic and treatment process. It can also facilitate remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment, allowing for timely intervention and improved patient outcomes. However, the success of telemedicine depends on several factors, including reliable internet access, patient and provider familiarity with technology, and the availability of necessary equipment. The digital divide, which often affects rural areas, could hinder the widespread adoption of telemedicine in Mayersville.

Mental health resources are crucial for patients diagnosed with lung cancer. The diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer can be emotionally and psychologically challenging. Patients may experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. The availability of mental health support services, such as counseling and support groups, is essential to help patients cope with these challenges. The lack of readily available mental health resources in Mayersville would further compound the challenges faced by lung cancer patients.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for Mayersville, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39113) is likely to be low. The limited availability of PCPs, the absence of specialists, the potential challenges with telemedicine adoption, and the likely scarcity of mental health resources all contribute to a difficult landscape for lung cancer patients. The lack of readily available resources makes it difficult to provide timely diagnosis, treatment, and supportive care.

The absence of a robust healthcare infrastructure necessitates innovative approaches to improve lung cancer care access. This could include increased investment in rural healthcare, initiatives to attract and retain healthcare professionals, and the expansion of telemedicine services. Community outreach programs focused on early detection, smoking cessation, and patient education are also crucial.

The challenges faced by Mayersville are not unique. Many rural communities across the United States struggle with similar issues. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach that involves collaboration between healthcare providers, policymakers, and community organizations. The goal is to ensure that all individuals, regardless of their location, have access to the quality care they need.

Understanding the geographical distribution of healthcare resources is critical for improving access to care. Mapping the location of physicians, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities can help identify areas with the greatest need. CartoChrome maps offer powerful tools for visualizing healthcare data and identifying disparities in access. The ability to overlay data, such as physician-to-patient ratios, cancer incidence rates, and socioeconomic factors, can provide valuable insights into the challenges faced by communities like Mayersville.

To further understand the healthcare landscape in Mayersville and other rural areas, consider using CartoChrome maps. Explore the visual representation of healthcare data to identify areas with limited access to care and inform strategies for improving healthcare delivery.