39175, Utica, Mississippi Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 39175, Utica, Mississippi is 8 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.45 percent of the residents in 39175 has some form of health insurance. 48.17 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 53.47 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 39175 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 582 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39175. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 938 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 158 health care providers accessible to residents in 39175, Utica, Mississippi.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Utica, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39175)**

The following analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of healthcare resources in Utica, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39175), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and patient support. The evaluation considers primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. This analysis is designed to offer a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare landscape and identify areas for potential improvement.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on robust primary care. Early detection through regular screenings, facilitated by a strong network of primary care physicians (PCPs), significantly improves patient outcomes. In Utica, the availability of PCPs is a critical factor. Determining the precise physician-to-patient ratio requires accessing up-to-date data from sources like the Mississippi State Department of Health or the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA). A low ratio, indicating a limited number of PCPs relative to the population, could present a significant challenge. Patients might face longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings or the timely diagnosis of symptoms. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility to primary care, allowing for proactive and preventative care.

Beyond the sheer number of PCPs, the quality and accessibility of these providers are equally important. The presence of standout practices, those known for their commitment to preventative care and patient-centered services, can significantly impact the overall healthcare environment. Identifying these practices involves researching patient reviews, assessing their adherence to evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening (e.g., those recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force), and evaluating their integration of technology to improve patient care. Do these practices proactively offer low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals? Do they have systems in place to effectively manage chronic conditions and provide patient education? These are key considerations.

Telemedicine adoption represents a crucial element in modern healthcare delivery, especially in rural areas like Utica. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, providing patients with access to specialists, follow-up appointments, and even mental health services without requiring extensive travel. The extent to which local practices have embraced telemedicine is a crucial indicator of their commitment to patient convenience and accessibility. Do PCPs offer virtual consultations for routine check-ups or medication management? Are specialists available for remote consultations, allowing patients to receive expert opinions without leaving their community? The degree of telemedicine integration can profoundly influence the patient experience.

The emotional and psychological impact of a lung cancer diagnosis is profound. Integrating mental health resources into the care continuum is therefore essential. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups to help patients cope with the stress, anxiety, and depression that often accompany a cancer diagnosis. Assessing the availability of these resources in Utica involves evaluating the presence of mental health professionals in the area, the availability of support groups (both in-person and online), and the extent to which PCPs are trained to recognize and address mental health concerns. A holistic approach to patient care, encompassing both physical and mental well-being, is paramount.

The evaluation of healthcare resources in Utica also necessitates an understanding of local hospital infrastructure and the availability of specialized services. Does the local hospital offer diagnostic imaging services, such as CT scans, necessary for lung cancer screening and diagnosis? Are there oncologists or pulmonologists available in the area, or do patients need to travel to larger cities for specialized care? The proximity and accessibility of these services directly impact patient outcomes.

The specific practices and providers within ZIP Code 39175 require targeted research. This involves identifying the names and addresses of local PCPs, specialists, and hospitals. Then, a detailed investigation of their services, patient reviews, and adoption of innovative technologies is needed. This research should focus on the following:

* **Physician-to-Patient Ratio:** Determining the ratio of PCPs to the population within the ZIP code.
* **Practice Profiles:** Detailed assessments of the services offered by local practices, including their approach to preventative care, screening protocols, and the integration of telemedicine.
* **Telemedicine Adoption:** Evaluating the extent to which local practices offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and other telemedicine services.
* **Mental Health Resources:** Assessing the availability of mental health professionals, support groups, and integrated mental health services within the local healthcare system.
* **Hospital Infrastructure:** Examining the diagnostic and treatment capabilities of the local hospital, including the availability of CT scans, oncology services, and pulmonology specialists.

Based on this research, a "Lung Cancer Score" could be developed. This score would be a composite measure, reflecting the overall quality and accessibility of healthcare resources in Utica. The score would be based on the factors outlined above, with each factor weighted according to its importance in lung cancer care. The higher the score, the better the healthcare environment for lung cancer patients.

The analysis should also consider the demographics of the population served by these healthcare providers. Are there disparities in access to care based on race, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status? Addressing these disparities is essential to ensure equitable healthcare for all residents of Utica.

Ultimately, the goal is to provide a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare landscape in Utica, highlighting its strengths and weaknesses. This information can then be used to inform patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers, helping to improve the quality and accessibility of lung cancer care in the community.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in Utica and gain a deeper understanding of physician locations, practice locations, and the distribution of healthcare resources, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive and data-rich maps that allow you to explore the healthcare environment in detail.