39358, Scooba, Mississippi Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 39358, Scooba, Mississippi is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.12 percent of the residents in 39358 has some form of health insurance. 33.75 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.70 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 39358 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 298 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39358. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 121 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 61 health care providers accessible to residents in 39358, Scooba, Mississippi.

## Lung Cancer Score: Scooba, Mississippi - A Primary Care Landscape Analysis

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for primary care physicians and resources within and serving the Scooba, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39358) area. The score is not a numerical value but rather a qualitative evaluation of key factors influencing early detection, treatment access, and overall patient support for those at risk or diagnosed with lung cancer. This assessment considers physician availability, practice characteristics, technological integration, and the presence of supportive services.

The primary care landscape in Scooba presents a unique challenge. The rural nature of the community, coupled with potential limitations in healthcare infrastructure, necessitates a careful evaluation of available resources. The ability to effectively address lung cancer risk and provide timely care hinges on the strength of the primary care network.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Accessibility:**

A fundamental aspect of any healthcare assessment is the physician-to-patient ratio. While precise figures for Scooba alone are difficult to obtain without specific data access, the broader context of rural Mississippi suggests a potential shortage of primary care physicians. This shortage can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventive screenings, and a general strain on the existing healthcare workforce. This potentially impacts early detection of lung cancer.

The geographical distribution of physicians within the ZIP code is also critical. Are primary care practices concentrated in specific areas, leaving others underserved? The presence of a local hospital or clinic is beneficial, but the availability of primary care physicians who can effectively manage lung cancer risk and coordinate care is paramount. The ability to connect patients with specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, is also a key factor in the overall score.

**Standout Practices and Their Characteristics:**

Identifying practices that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive patient care is crucial. These practices may exhibit several positive characteristics. They might proactively screen for lung cancer risk factors, such as smoking history and exposure to environmental hazards. They may also offer or facilitate smoking cessation programs, which are essential for reducing lung cancer incidence.

Furthermore, standout practices often prioritize patient education. They provide clear and concise information about lung cancer symptoms, early detection methods (such as low-dose CT scans), and treatment options. They also foster a strong patient-physician relationship, which encourages open communication and trust. This can lead to earlier detection and improved patient outcomes.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Impact:**

Telemedicine has the potential to significantly improve healthcare access in rural areas. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, provide remote monitoring, and connect patients with specialists can overcome geographical barriers. The Lung Cancer Score considers the extent to which primary care practices in Scooba have embraced telemedicine.

Practices that utilize telemedicine for follow-up appointments, medication management, and even initial consultations receive a higher score. The availability of telemedicine can also facilitate access to specialists who may not be physically present in the community. This is particularly important for lung cancer patients who may require consultations with pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists.

**Mental Health Resources and Patient Support:**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges are common. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of the Lung Cancer Score.

Practices that offer on-site counseling services or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals receive a higher score. The integration of mental health services into the primary care setting can ensure that patients receive comprehensive support throughout their journey. Support groups, educational programs, and access to palliative care services also contribute positively to the score.

**Specific Considerations for Scooba:**

Given the rural setting of Scooba, the Lung Cancer Score assessment must consider specific challenges and opportunities. The potential for limited access to specialized medical services necessitates a focus on strong primary care practices that can effectively manage lung cancer risk and coordinate care.

The ability of primary care physicians to collaborate with specialists in larger medical centers is crucial. The availability of transportation assistance for patients who need to travel for treatment is also an important consideration. Furthermore, the score should reflect the community's awareness of lung cancer risks and the availability of public health initiatives, such as smoking cessation programs.

**Conclusion:**

The Lung Cancer Score for primary care in Scooba, Mississippi, is a multifaceted assessment that considers physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. While specific data limitations prevent a precise numerical score, the analysis highlights the importance of strong primary care practices, the potential of telemedicine, and the need for comprehensive patient support. The overall score reflects the need for continued efforts to improve healthcare access and outcomes for individuals at risk or diagnosed with lung cancer in this rural community.

For a more detailed visualization of the healthcare landscape in Scooba, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to resources, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. Their platform offers a powerful tool for understanding the geographical distribution of healthcare services and identifying areas for improvement.