39406, Hattiesburg, Mississippi Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 39406, Hattiesburg, Mississippi is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.42 percent of the residents in 39406 has some form of health insurance. 10.77 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.58 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 39406 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 268 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 30 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39406. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 0 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 8,610 health care providers accessible to residents in 39406, Hattiesburg, Mississippi.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Hattiesburg, MS (ZIP Code 39406)

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for physicians and primary care resources within Hattiesburg, Mississippi, specifically focusing on ZIP code 39406. The evaluation considers factors crucial to early detection, diagnosis, and treatment of lung cancer, including physician availability, access to primary care, adoption of innovative technologies, and the integration of mental health services. This score is not a definitive ranking but a comparative assessment based on publicly available data and industry insights.

The primary care landscape in Hattiesburg, and by extension within ZIP code 39406, is a critical foundation for lung cancer detection. Early diagnosis is paramount, and primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients exhibiting symptoms or at high risk due to smoking history or environmental factors. The physician-to-patient ratio is a key indicator of access. While precise figures fluctuate, Hattiesburg, like many areas, faces challenges in this regard. A lower ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. This scarcity underscores the importance of efficient practice models and the strategic deployment of healthcare resources.

Standout practices within the 39406 area are those demonstrating a proactive approach to lung cancer screening and management. This includes practices actively promoting low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for eligible patients, as recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF). Practices excelling in this area will have established protocols for identifying high-risk individuals, facilitating timely referrals to pulmonologists or oncologists, and providing comprehensive patient education regarding smoking cessation and other preventative measures. Identifying these practices requires careful review of their service offerings, patient testimonials, and adherence to clinical guidelines.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial element in the Lung Cancer Score analysis. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, particularly for follow-up appointments, medication management, and patient education, can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients in rural or underserved areas. Practices embracing telemedicine, offering virtual visits, and integrating remote monitoring technologies are likely to receive a higher score. This also includes practices that use technology for patient reminders, education, and communication regarding test results.

The integration of mental health resources is a frequently overlooked but vital aspect of lung cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis and treatment journey can be emotionally taxing, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that recognize this and provide or facilitate access to mental health services, such as counseling, support groups, or psychiatric care, demonstrate a more holistic approach to patient well-being. This integration is essential for improving patient outcomes and quality of life.

Specific examples of practices in the 39406 area that are known to be involved in lung cancer care include those affiliated with Forrest General Hospital. These practices often have access to advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies, including advanced imaging capabilities and oncology specialists. However, a comprehensive score requires a deeper dive into each practice's specific protocols, screening rates, and the availability of support services.

Further analysis of the physician-to-patient ratio within 39406 reveals potential areas for improvement. The availability of pulmonologists and oncologists, in addition to PCPs, is a critical factor. A sufficient number of specialists is essential for timely diagnosis and treatment. The score also considers the geographic distribution of these specialists, ensuring that patients have reasonable access to care regardless of their location within the ZIP code.

The Lung Cancer Score also considers the availability of support services, such as smoking cessation programs, patient navigators, and palliative care. These resources are crucial for providing comprehensive care and improving patient outcomes. Practices that actively partner with community organizations to offer these services demonstrate a commitment to patient well-being beyond clinical treatment.

The data for this analysis is derived from various public sources, including the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the National Cancer Institute (NCI), and state health departments. Information on individual practices is gathered from their websites, patient reviews, and professional directories. The score is dynamic and can change as new data becomes available and as practices adapt to evolving best practices.

The adoption of innovative technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI) for image analysis and targeted therapies, is also considered. Practices that embrace these advancements are better positioned to provide cutting-edge care and improve patient outcomes. The score will also factor in a practice's participation in clinical trials, which provides patients with access to the latest treatment options.

The Lung Cancer Score aims to provide a snapshot of the healthcare landscape in 39406 and to highlight areas where improvements can be made. This includes increasing the number of PCPs, improving access to specialists, promoting early detection through screening, integrating mental health services, and embracing innovative technologies. The score is designed to be a tool for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers to improve lung cancer care in Hattiesburg.

To gain a more visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Hattiesburg, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and access to resources, explore the power of spatial data. **Click here to explore the CartoChrome maps** to visualize the geographic distribution of healthcare resources and gain deeper insights into the accessibility of care within the 39406 ZIP code.