39202, Jackson, Mississippi Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 39202, Jackson, Mississippi is 93 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.77 percent of the residents in 39202 has some form of health insurance. 32.93 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.45 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 39202 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,035 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 79 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39202. An estimate of 44 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 961 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 10,908 health care providers accessible to residents in 39202, Jackson, Mississippi.

## Lung Cancer Score: Jackson, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39202)

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for primary care physicians within ZIP Code 39202 in Jackson, Mississippi, considering factors relevant to lung cancer screening, diagnosis, and patient support. This score aims to offer insights into the accessibility and quality of care available to residents, focusing on elements that can significantly impact outcomes.

The foundation of a good lung cancer score rests on accessible primary care. ZIP Code 39202, encompassing a portion of Jackson, presents a complex landscape. The availability of primary care physicians, measured through physician-to-patient ratios, is a critical starting point. Data suggests that certain areas within Jackson face shortages, potentially leading to delayed screenings and diagnoses. This scarcity can be exacerbated by factors like socioeconomic disparities and limited transportation options, which may disproportionately affect vulnerable populations. The analysis must consider the existing primary care infrastructure.

The presence of standout practices within the area significantly impacts the overall score. These practices, ideally, would demonstrate a commitment to preventative care, including proactive lung cancer screening for eligible patients. This involves adhering to guidelines established by organizations like the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), which recommend annual lung cancer screening with low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for individuals meeting specific criteria (age, smoking history). Practices excelling in this area would have established protocols for identifying at-risk patients, educating them about screening benefits and risks, and facilitating timely referrals for LDCT scans.

Telemedicine adoption is a crucial component of the Lung Cancer Score. The ability to offer virtual consultations, particularly for follow-up appointments, medication management, and discussing screening results, can significantly improve patient access to care, especially for those with mobility limitations or residing in underserved areas. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, with secure and user-friendly platforms, would receive a higher score. This includes the ability to provide remote monitoring of symptoms and offer educational resources online.

Mental health resources play a vital role in the overall well-being of lung cancer patients. A diagnosis of lung cancer can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Primary care practices with established connections to mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and counselors, would receive a higher score. This includes offering on-site counseling services or providing referrals to specialists. The availability of support groups and educational materials for patients and their families is also essential.

The score also considers the integration of specialists. A high-performing primary care practice would have established referral pathways to pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons. The efficiency and timeliness of these referrals can significantly impact patient outcomes. This includes the ability to quickly schedule appointments, share patient records electronically, and coordinate care among different specialists.

To further refine the Lung Cancer Score, we must consider the demographics of the population served. Areas with a higher prevalence of smoking, a key risk factor for lung cancer, would necessitate a more robust screening program. Practices serving these populations should demonstrate a commitment to smoking cessation programs, providing resources and support to help patients quit smoking.

The quality of diagnostic services is also a factor. The availability of advanced imaging technologies, such as LDCT scans, within the ZIP Code is crucial. Practices that have access to these technologies, either on-site or through partnerships with local hospitals or imaging centers, would receive a higher score. The accuracy and efficiency of the diagnostic process are vital for timely intervention.

The analysis must also address the patient experience. This involves assessing factors such as wait times for appointments, the clarity of communication between physicians and patients, and the overall satisfaction of patients with the care they receive. Practices that prioritize patient-centered care, with a focus on empathy, respect, and shared decision-making, would receive a higher score.

The Lung Cancer Score should not only reflect the availability of resources but also the utilization of those resources. Practices that demonstrate a high rate of lung cancer screening among eligible patients, a low rate of missed appointments, and positive patient outcomes would receive a higher score. This requires a data-driven approach, with practices tracking key performance indicators (KPIs) and using this data to improve their performance.

Furthermore, the score must consider the role of community outreach. Practices that actively engage in community education and awareness campaigns regarding lung cancer risk factors, screening guidelines, and available resources would receive a higher score. This includes participating in health fairs, providing educational materials, and partnering with local organizations to reach vulnerable populations.

The score is not static; it needs to be dynamic. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, with new technologies, treatments, and guidelines emerging regularly. The Lung Cancer Score should be updated periodically to reflect these changes and ensure that it remains relevant and accurate. This includes monitoring the adoption of new screening technologies, such as liquid biopsies, and incorporating them into the assessment.

In conclusion, the Lung Cancer Score for primary care physicians in ZIP Code 39202 in Jackson, Mississippi, is a multifaceted assessment that considers physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and a host of other factors. This score aims to provide valuable insights into the accessibility and quality of care available to residents, helping them make informed decisions about their healthcare. The goal is to identify areas for improvement and promote better outcomes for lung cancer patients.

Want to visualize the data behind this analysis and explore the geographical distribution of healthcare resources in Jackson, Mississippi? **Visit CartoChrome maps to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape and identify potential gaps in access to care.**