39167, Star, Mississippi Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 39167, Star, Mississippi is 97 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 0.00 percent of the residents in 39167 has some form of health insurance. 0.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 0.00 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 39167 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 57 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39167. An estimate of 21 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 0 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,733 health care providers accessible to residents in 39167, Star, Mississippi.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 39167 and Primary Care Availability in Star, Mississippi**

Analyzing healthcare access and quality, particularly concerning lung cancer, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis focuses on ZIP code 39167 (Star, Mississippi) and its primary care landscape, evaluating factors crucial for early detection, treatment, and overall patient well-being. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, considering physician availability, innovative practices, and supportive resources.

The foundation of any lung cancer care assessment rests on access to primary care. ZIP code 39167, a rural area, likely faces challenges common to such locales: limited physician availability. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is paramount. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) can provide estimates of primary care physicians per capita within the ZIP code. A low ratio would indicate potential difficulties in securing timely appointments, leading to delayed diagnoses and treatment. This scarcity necessitates a focus on maximizing the efficiency of existing resources.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care is essential. This includes the availability of comprehensive services, including routine screenings, smoking cessation programs, and patient education. The "Lung Cancer Score" must consider the proactive stance of primary care physicians in identifying at-risk patients. Are they actively promoting lung cancer screenings for eligible individuals, particularly those with a history of smoking? Do they have established referral pathways to pulmonologists and oncologists? These practices significantly impact patient outcomes.

Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code is critical. These might be clinics or individual physicians demonstrating a commitment to preventative care and patient-centered service. This could involve practices that have implemented patient navigators to guide individuals through the healthcare system, particularly those facing a lung cancer diagnosis. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively, allowing for seamless information sharing between specialists and primary care providers, deserve high marks. The "Lung Cancer Score" should recognize and reward these exemplary models.

Telemedicine adoption plays a crucial role in bridging geographical barriers and improving access to care in rural areas. The availability of telehealth services, including virtual consultations with primary care physicians, pulmonologists, and oncologists, can significantly improve patient outcomes. Telemedicine can facilitate early detection through virtual screenings, provide remote monitoring for patients undergoing treatment, and offer convenient access to follow-up appointments. The analysis must evaluate the extent of telemedicine integration within the primary care network of ZIP code 39167.

Mental health resources are a frequently overlooked, yet vital, component of lung cancer care. A diagnosis of lung cancer can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The "Lung Cancer Score" must assess the availability of mental health services within the community. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups. Primary care physicians should be trained to identify and address mental health needs, making appropriate referrals when necessary. The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan is essential for holistic patient well-being.

The analysis should also consider the availability of specialized services, such as pulmonology and oncology. Proximity to specialists is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment. The "Lung Cancer Score" must evaluate the distance patients in ZIP code 39167 must travel to access these critical services. Longer travel times can create barriers to care, particularly for patients with limited mobility or transportation options. The presence of a local hospital with a dedicated oncology unit would significantly improve the score.

Furthermore, the "Lung Cancer Score" should factor in the availability of patient education materials and resources. This includes information about lung cancer prevention, early detection, treatment options, and support services. The availability of these resources in multiple formats (e.g., brochures, online materials, and support groups) is essential to cater to diverse patient needs. The primary care practices should actively promote these resources.

The analysis should also consider the affordability of healthcare services. The "Lung Cancer Score" must assess the availability of financial assistance programs and the acceptance of various insurance plans within the community. The cost of treatment can be a significant burden for patients, and access to affordable care is crucial for ensuring equitable outcomes.

Finally, the "Lung Cancer Score" should be dynamic, reflecting ongoing improvements and changes in the healthcare landscape. Regular updates are necessary to track progress and identify areas for improvement. This requires continuous monitoring of physician availability, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and patient outcomes.

In conclusion, the "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP code 39167 and the primary care availability in Star, Mississippi, is a complex evaluation. It requires a thorough assessment of physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and access to specialized services. A comprehensive approach, incorporating all these factors, will provide a more accurate and meaningful assessment of the healthcare landscape and its impact on lung cancer patients.

For a visual representation of these healthcare access points and a detailed geographical analysis, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome can provide a dynamic and interactive view of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 39167, allowing you to visualize physician locations, hospital proximity, and resource availability. **Explore the possibilities with CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper understanding of healthcare access in Star, Mississippi.**