39177, Valley Park, Mississippi Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 39177, Valley Park, Mississippi is 86 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.24 percent of the residents in 39177 has some form of health insurance. 88.24 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 80.00 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 39177 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 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39177. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 75 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 758 health care providers accessible to residents in 39177, Valley Park, Mississippi.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Valley Park, MS (ZIP Code 39177)

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for primary care physicians (PCPs) within ZIP code 39177, Valley Park, Mississippi, focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and patient support. The goal is to evaluate the overall healthcare landscape's preparedness to address lung cancer concerns within this specific geographic area. The assessment considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources.

Valley Park, Mississippi, a community in Yazoo County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. Rural areas often face difficulties in attracting and retaining healthcare professionals, potentially impacting the quality and timeliness of care for residents. Lung cancer, a significant health concern, necessitates proactive screening, early diagnosis, and comprehensive treatment, all of which are influenced by the accessibility and quality of primary care.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial indicator of healthcare access. In Valley Park, the availability of PCPs is likely a limiting factor. A low physician-to-patient ratio means that each doctor is responsible for a larger patient population, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and a decreased capacity for preventative care, including lung cancer screenings. The scarcity of specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, within the immediate vicinity further exacerbates this challenge. Patients may need to travel significant distances to access specialized care, adding to the burden of diagnosis and treatment.

Identifying standout practices within ZIP code 39177 is essential. These practices may demonstrate best practices in lung cancer screening, patient education, and referral pathways. Factors to consider include the implementation of evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening, such as those recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF). Practices that actively screen high-risk patients, including those with a history of smoking or exposure to other risk factors, are particularly noteworthy. The presence of certified tobacco cessation programs within these practices is also a positive indicator, as smoking cessation is a critical step in preventing lung cancer and improving patient outcomes. The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) and their integration with other healthcare providers facilitates efficient communication and care coordination.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical aspect of the healthcare landscape in Valley Park. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers and improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, provide remote monitoring, and deliver educational materials through telemedicine platforms can significantly benefit lung cancer patients. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can offer more convenient follow-up appointments, manage chronic conditions, and provide access to specialists who may not be readily available locally. The availability of telehealth services for mental health support is particularly important, as lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can significantly impact patients' emotional well-being.

Mental health resources play a vital role in supporting lung cancer patients. The emotional and psychological toll of a cancer diagnosis can be substantial, and access to mental health services is crucial for managing anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of on-site mental health professionals or referrals to local mental health providers is a positive indicator. Furthermore, practices that integrate mental health screening into routine care and offer support groups or educational programs for patients and their families demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. The ability to connect patients with resources for financial assistance and social support is also important, as lung cancer treatment can be expensive, and patients may face challenges with employment and daily living.

The availability of resources for smoking cessation is a key factor in lung cancer prevention. Practices that offer smoking cessation programs, including counseling and medication, are better equipped to help patients quit smoking and reduce their risk of developing lung cancer. These programs should be readily accessible and tailored to the individual needs of each patient. The integration of smoking cessation services into primary care practices can significantly improve patient outcomes and contribute to a healthier community.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for Valley Park, MS (39177) is likely moderate. The rural setting and potential limitations in physician-to-patient ratios suggest challenges in healthcare access. However, practices that actively screen for lung cancer, embrace telemedicine, and provide mental health support can significantly improve the score. The adoption of smoking cessation programs and the presence of strong referral pathways to specialists will also positively impact the score. Further research is needed to gather specific data on the availability of resources and the implementation of best practices within the local healthcare system.

The success of lung cancer prevention and treatment in Valley Park hinges on collaborative efforts among healthcare providers, community organizations, and government agencies. Increased investment in primary care, the recruitment of specialists, and the expansion of telemedicine services are crucial steps toward improving healthcare access and outcomes. Patient education and awareness campaigns are also essential to promote early detection and encourage healthy behaviors.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Valley Park, MS (39177), including the location of healthcare providers, the availability of resources, and other relevant data, explore CartoChrome maps.