39174, Tougaloo, Mississippi Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 39174, Tougaloo, Mississippi is 95 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.48 percent of the residents in 39174 has some form of health insurance. 0.83 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 88.65 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 39174 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 219 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 60 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39174. 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 8,507 health care providers accessible to residents in 39174, Tougaloo, Mississippi.

## Lung Cancer Score: An Analysis of Healthcare in Tougaloo, MS (ZIP Code 39174)

This analysis delves into the healthcare landscape of Tougaloo, Mississippi (ZIP code 39174), specifically focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer care. We will assess primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in providing comprehensive and timely care for individuals facing this serious disease. The goal is to provide an informed perspective on the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare infrastructure, ultimately contributing to a better understanding of the support available to patients and the opportunities for improvement.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on robust primary care. Early detection is paramount, and primary care physicians (PCPs) often serve as the first point of contact, initiating screenings and referrals. In Tougaloo, evaluating primary care availability requires examining the number of PCPs actively practicing within the ZIP code or serving its residents. This includes assessing the types of practices available, such as solo practices, group practices, and those affiliated with larger healthcare systems. The accessibility of these practices, considering factors like appointment wait times and insurance acceptance, directly impacts the speed and efficiency of diagnosis and treatment. Limited primary care availability could lead to delayed diagnoses and poorer outcomes for potential lung cancer patients.

Physician-to-patient ratios provide a crucial metric for evaluating healthcare accessibility. A high ratio, indicating a relatively small number of physicians serving a large population, can strain resources and potentially lead to longer wait times for appointments and reduced physician availability for comprehensive care. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater access to care and the potential for more personalized attention. Determining the specific physician-to-patient ratio within 39174 is essential. This analysis will consider the ratio of PCPs, pulmonologists (specialists in lung diseases), and oncologists (cancer specialists) to the total population of Tougaloo. A low number of specialists, especially pulmonologists and oncologists, would indicate a need for patients to travel outside the immediate area for specialized care, which can be a significant burden for patients and their families.

Identifying standout practices is critical for understanding the quality of care available. This involves researching practices known for their expertise in lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and supportive care. Factors to consider include the experience and credentials of the physicians, the availability of advanced diagnostic tools (such as CT scanners and bronchoscopy), and the use of evidence-based treatment protocols. Furthermore, it’s important to investigate the practice's commitment to patient education and support services, such as smoking cessation programs and access to clinical trials. These aspects can significantly impact the patient experience and treatment outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas where access to specialists may be limited. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, provide remote monitoring, and deliver educational resources through telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers and improve access to care. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption among practices in 39174 involves determining which practices offer telehealth services, the types of services provided (e.g., virtual appointments, remote monitoring), and the ease of access for patients. The presence of telemedicine can significantly improve access to specialists, especially pulmonologists and oncologists, who may not be readily available in the immediate area.

The mental health needs of lung cancer patients are often significant and frequently overlooked. The diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer can be emotionally and psychologically challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of comprehensive care. This analysis will investigate the availability of mental health professionals (e.g., psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists) in the area, including their accessibility and the types of services they provide. It will also assess the integration of mental health services within primary care practices and cancer treatment centers. The presence of support groups and other resources for patients and their families is also an important factor.

A comprehensive Lung Cancer Score for 39174 would consider all these factors. The score would ideally be based on a weighted system, with each factor contributing to the overall assessment. For instance, physician-to-patient ratios, primary care availability, and the presence of specialists would likely carry significant weight, reflecting their direct impact on access to care. The availability of advanced diagnostic tools and treatment options would also be highly weighted, as they directly influence treatment outcomes. Telemedicine adoption and the availability of mental health resources would also contribute to the score, reflecting their importance in providing comprehensive and supportive care.

This type of analysis helps identify gaps in care and areas for improvement. For example, a low physician-to-patient ratio or limited access to specialists would indicate a need for efforts to recruit and retain healthcare professionals in the area. The absence of telemedicine services might suggest an opportunity to implement telehealth programs to improve access to care. Similarly, a lack of mental health resources would highlight the need for increased access to mental health professionals and support services. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the healthcare landscape, empowering patients to make informed decisions about their care and advocating for improvements in the local healthcare system.

The assessment of healthcare in Tougaloo, MS, requires a nuanced understanding of the local context. This involves considering factors such as the demographics of the population, the socioeconomic status of residents, and the availability of transportation. These factors can significantly impact access to care and the ability of patients to adhere to treatment plans. For instance, individuals with limited transportation options may face significant challenges in accessing healthcare services located outside of their immediate area. Similarly, those with limited financial resources may struggle to afford the cost of care, including medications and transportation.

In conclusion, a thorough assessment of healthcare in Tougaloo, MS, is vital for understanding the support available to lung cancer patients. A comprehensive analysis of primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources is essential. This analysis provides valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare infrastructure.

To visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Tougaloo and surrounding areas, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of healthcare resources, physician distribution, and other relevant data, allowing for a more comprehensive and insightful analysis. Visit CartoChrome maps today to explore the healthcare landscape and gain a clearer picture of the resources available in your community.