39359, Sebastopol, Mississippi Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 39359, Sebastopol, Mississippi is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.11 percent of the residents in 39359 has some form of health insurance. 40.70 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.18 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 39359 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 60 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39359. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 68 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 574 health care providers accessible to residents in 39359, Sebastopol, Mississippi.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Sebastopol, MS (ZIP Code 39359)**

This analysis assesses the quality of lung cancer care available to residents of Sebastopol, Mississippi (ZIP code 39359), focusing on primary care physician (PCP) availability and the overall healthcare landscape. The goal is to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" perspective, evaluating factors crucial for early detection, diagnosis, and treatment, ultimately impacting patient outcomes.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in accessible and quality primary care. Early detection is paramount, and PCPs are often the first point of contact. Their ability to recognize symptoms, order appropriate screenings (like low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals), and refer patients to specialists significantly influences the trajectory of the disease. The availability of PCPs within the Sebastopol area is therefore a critical determinant of the "Lung Cancer Score."

Sebastopol, a rural community, may face challenges related to physician-to-patient ratios. A limited number of PCPs can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. This scarcity also impacts the ability of PCPs to provide comprehensive care, including preventative screenings and patient education. A lower physician-to-patient ratio would negatively affect the "Lung Cancer Score."

The presence of standout primary care practices within the ZIP code is another crucial factor. Practices demonstrating a commitment to preventative care, including robust screening programs for lung cancer, would positively influence the "Lung Cancer Score." These practices might have implemented systems for identifying high-risk patients, proactively scheduling screenings, and providing patient education materials. The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) and their effective use for tracking patient health data and managing referrals are also indicators of quality.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly relevant, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, providing patients with access to specialists and follow-up care without the need for extensive travel. The availability of telehealth services for lung cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment would significantly enhance the "Lung Cancer Score." This includes virtual consultations with pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but essential aspect of cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can have a profound emotional impact, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health support, including therapists, counselors, and support groups, is vital for patients' well-being and their ability to cope with the disease. The integration of mental health services within the primary care setting or readily accessible referrals to mental health professionals would positively impact the "Lung Cancer Score."

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Sebastopol, MS, is directly influenced by the availability of these resources. A high score would reflect a robust healthcare system with a sufficient number of PCPs, proactive screening programs, readily available telemedicine options, and comprehensive mental health support. Conversely, a low score would indicate challenges related to physician shortages, limited access to screening, and a lack of integrated mental health services.

Assessing the specific practices within ZIP code 39359 requires detailed investigation. Identifying practices that actively promote lung cancer screening, have implemented patient navigation programs, and have strong referral networks is critical. Evaluating the availability of advanced diagnostic tools, such as bronchoscopy and advanced imaging capabilities, is also important. The presence of a local hospital or clinic with these capabilities would significantly improve the "Lung Cancer Score."

The integration of patient education is another vital aspect of care. Practices that provide patients with information about lung cancer risk factors, symptoms, and screening options demonstrate a commitment to preventative care. The availability of educational materials in multiple languages and formats would further enhance the "Lung Cancer Score" for a diverse population.

The quality of care also hinges on the coordination between primary care physicians and specialists. Effective communication and collaboration between PCPs, pulmonologists, oncologists, and other healthcare providers ensure that patients receive comprehensive and coordinated care. Practices that have established referral pathways and utilize shared electronic health records would contribute to a higher "Lung Cancer Score."

The availability of support services, such as smoking cessation programs, is also a critical factor. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and providing patients with access to resources that help them quit smoking is essential for prevention and treatment. Practices that offer or refer patients to smoking cessation programs would positively influence the "Lung Cancer Score."

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a static metric. It is a dynamic assessment that can change over time, reflecting improvements or declines in the healthcare landscape. Regular monitoring and evaluation are essential to identify areas for improvement and ensure that patients in Sebastopol, MS, receive the best possible care.

The impact of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) on healthcare access in the area is also a consideration. The ACA has expanded access to health insurance, which can improve access to care and lead to earlier diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer. However, the impact of the ACA can vary depending on the specific implementation and the availability of healthcare providers.

Furthermore, the socioeconomic factors within the community can affect the "Lung Cancer Score." Factors such as poverty, lack of transportation, and limited health literacy can create barriers to care. Addressing these social determinants of health is crucial to ensure that all residents of Sebastopol have equal access to quality lung cancer care.

In conclusion, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Sebastopol, MS (ZIP code 39359), is a multifaceted assessment that considers the availability of primary care physicians, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the overall healthcare infrastructure. A high score reflects a healthcare system that prioritizes early detection, comprehensive care, and patient well-being. The ultimate goal is to improve the lives of individuals affected by lung cancer in the community.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Sebastopol, MS, and explore the distribution of physicians, healthcare facilities, and other relevant data, we encourage you to utilize CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that can help you visualize and analyze the healthcare resources available in the area.