39144, Pattison, Mississippi Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 39144, Pattison, Mississippi is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 78.72 percent of the residents in 39144 has some form of health insurance. 69.79 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 16.88 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 39144 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 264 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39144. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 219 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 44 health care providers accessible to residents in 39144, Pattison, Mississippi.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 39144 & Primary Care in Pattison**

Analyzing healthcare access and quality, particularly concerning lung cancer care, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis focuses on the availability and characteristics of primary care physicians (PCPs) within ZIP code 39144, which encompasses Pattison, Mississippi, and considers factors relevant to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and patient support. The goal is to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, though it's important to remember this is a qualitative interpretation based on available data, not a formal, statistically validated score.

The foundation of good lung cancer care rests on strong primary care. Early detection is critical. PCPs are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms. Their ability to recognize risk factors, order appropriate screenings (like low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals), and refer patients to specialists significantly impacts outcomes. Therefore, the availability and quality of primary care in Pattison are paramount.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a crucial indicator. A low ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Data on physician density within 39144 is difficult to ascertain with complete precision, but publicly available resources such as the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) can provide estimates. The presence of a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) or other community health clinic in or near Pattison would positively influence the score, as these facilities often serve underserved populations and offer comprehensive care.

Standout practices are those that demonstrate a commitment to excellence in patient care. This can be assessed by looking at factors such as patient satisfaction scores, the adoption of evidence-based practices, and the availability of specialized services. While specific practice rankings are not readily available for individual practices in Pattison, examining the affiliations of PCPs (e.g., with larger hospital systems) can offer insights into resources and support available to them. Practices that actively participate in continuing medical education, adhere to guidelines from organizations like the American Cancer Society, and emphasize preventative care would be considered higher-performing.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. Telemedicine, including video consultations, remote monitoring, and secure messaging, can improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas like Pattison. It can reduce travel time, improve appointment flexibility, and facilitate communication between patients and their healthcare providers. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, especially for follow-up appointments, medication management, and patient education, would contribute positively to the Lung Cancer Score. The availability of reliable internet access in the area is, of course, a significant factor in the effectiveness of telemedicine.

Mental health resources play a vital role in cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating. Patients often experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health services, including counseling, support groups, and psychiatric care, is therefore essential. The presence of mental health professionals within primary care practices, or readily accessible referrals to mental health specialists in the region, would significantly enhance the overall care provided. The integration of mental health services with oncology care is a best practice.

Another key aspect to consider is the availability of specialists. While PCPs are crucial for initial screening and referral, access to pulmonologists, oncologists, thoracic surgeons, and radiation oncologists is essential for diagnosis and treatment. The proximity of Pattison to larger medical centers with specialized cancer care facilities is an important factor. Travel time to these centers and the availability of transportation assistance programs for patients are also relevant considerations.

Furthermore, patient education and support services are essential. Practices that provide patients with information about lung cancer, treatment options, and available support resources are more likely to foster positive patient outcomes. This includes information about smoking cessation programs, financial assistance programs, and support groups for patients and their families.

Considering all these factors, assessing the “Lung Cancer Score” for 39144 involves weighing the availability of primary care physicians, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the proximity of specialist care. It’s a complex picture. A high score would reflect a robust primary care infrastructure, easy access to specialists, widespread telemedicine adoption, readily available mental health support, and a strong emphasis on patient education and support. A low score would indicate potential challenges in accessing timely and comprehensive lung cancer care.

In conclusion, assessing healthcare access and quality is an ongoing process. The factors outlined above provide a framework for evaluating the state of lung cancer care in Pattison, Mississippi. A thorough assessment requires detailed data collection and analysis.