39166, Silver City, Mississippi Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 39166, Silver City, Mississippi is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.20 percent of the residents in 39166 has some form of health insurance. 61.03 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 26.13 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 39166 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 203 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39166. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 62 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 203 health care providers accessible to residents in 39166, Silver City, Mississippi.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Silver City, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39166)**

Silver City, Mississippi, presents a unique landscape for healthcare accessibility, particularly concerning lung cancer care. This analysis delves into the available resources, focusing on primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, and the adoption of innovative practices like telemedicine. The goal is to provide a comprehensive 'Lung Cancer Score' assessment, considering factors crucial for early detection, diagnosis, and treatment. This assessment will also explore the integration of mental health resources, a vital component often overlooked in cancer care.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on robust primary care. In Silver City, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical indicator. A scarcity of PCPs can lead to delayed diagnoses, as patients may struggle to find timely appointments for routine check-ups or to address early symptoms. The physician-to-patient ratio is a key metric. A higher ratio (fewer patients per physician) generally indicates better access. Researching the specific ratio within ZIP Code 39166, comparing it to state and national averages, will be crucial to understanding the community's baseline access to care. This data point directly impacts the 'Lung Cancer Score.'

Standout practices are those demonstrating exceptional commitment to patient care and proactive measures for lung cancer detection. This could involve clinics actively participating in lung cancer screening programs, especially for high-risk individuals (smokers, former smokers, and those with a family history). Practices that utilize advanced diagnostic tools, such as low-dose CT scans, and offer comprehensive smoking cessation programs would also be considered exemplary. Identifying these practices and highlighting their services would significantly boost the 'Lung Cancer Score.'

Telemedicine has revolutionized healthcare delivery, especially in rural areas. Its adoption in Silver City is a crucial factor. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with specialists, receive follow-up care, and participate in support groups without extensive travel. The availability of telehealth services for pulmonology, oncology, and mental health is particularly relevant. Assessing the number of local practices offering telemedicine options and the range of services provided will contribute significantly to the 'Lung Cancer Score.'

Mental health resources are an often-underestimated but critical aspect of cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be incredibly stressful, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within Silver City or accessible through telehealth is vital. Assessing the integration of mental health services within primary care practices and oncology centers would be a key factor. The availability of support groups, both in-person and virtual, is also important. The presence and accessibility of these resources will positively impact the 'Lung Cancer Score.'

To determine the 'Lung Cancer Score,' a weighted scoring system is necessary. Each factor – physician-to-patient ratio, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources – should be assigned a weight based on its relative importance. The specific data points for each factor are then evaluated, and a score is assigned. The weighted scores are then summed to produce the overall 'Lung Cancer Score.' This score provides a quantifiable measure of the community's preparedness to address lung cancer.

The 'Lung Cancer Score' can be further refined by considering the specific needs of the Silver City population. This includes demographic factors such as age, socioeconomic status, and health literacy. Tailoring healthcare services to meet the unique needs of the community will improve the effectiveness of lung cancer care.

The data collection process will involve several steps. First, identifying all primary care practices and specialists within ZIP Code 39166. Second, gathering data on physician-to-patient ratios, the types of services offered, and the adoption of telemedicine. Third, researching the availability of mental health resources, including therapists, counselors, and support groups. This data can be obtained through online searches, phone calls, and surveys.

The results of the analysis will provide valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in Silver City. The 'Lung Cancer Score' will serve as a benchmark for measuring progress and identifying areas for improvement. This information can be used to advocate for policy changes, attract healthcare providers, and improve the overall health of the community.

The analysis should also consider the impact of social determinants of health. Factors such as poverty, lack of access to transportation, and limited health literacy can significantly impact lung cancer outcomes. Addressing these social determinants is crucial for ensuring equitable access to care.

The final 'Lung Cancer Score' will be a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare landscape in Silver City, offering a clear picture of the resources available for lung cancer care. It will provide a framework for improving access to care, promoting early detection, and ultimately improving patient outcomes.

The analysis should also consider the role of community health workers. These individuals can play a vital role in connecting patients with resources, providing education, and navigating the healthcare system. Their involvement can significantly improve access to care, especially for underserved populations.

In conclusion, the 'Lung Cancer Score' analysis for Silver City, Mississippi, requires a detailed examination of primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. This analysis should also consider the social determinants of health and the role of community health workers. The resulting score will provide a valuable assessment of the community's preparedness to address lung cancer.

Want to visualize the healthcare landscape of Silver City and beyond? Explore the power of geographic data with CartoChrome maps. See how healthcare resources are distributed and identify areas with the greatest need.