39452, Lucedale, Mississippi Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 39452, Lucedale, Mississippi is 15 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.44 percent of the residents in 39452 has some form of health insurance. 36.74 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.52 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 39452 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 7,440 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39452. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,342 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 195 health care providers accessible to residents in 39452, Lucedale, Mississippi.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 39452 & Primary Care in Lucedale

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score (LCS) assessment for medical resources within ZIP code 39452, focusing on the availability and quality of care relevant to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and patient support. The scope includes primary care access in Lucedale, MS, the county seat of George County, which falls within the 39452 ZIP code's service area. The LCS considers factors influencing early detection, timely intervention, and comprehensive patient support, crucial for improving lung cancer outcomes.

The foundation of a strong LCS lies in accessible and competent primary care. Lucedale, as the central hub for healthcare within George County, plays a critical role. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients exhibiting symptoms. Their ability to recognize potential lung cancer indicators, order appropriate screenings (like low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals), and refer patients to specialists is paramount. A robust primary care system, therefore, is the initial building block of a good LCS.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a key metric. A low ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and a general strain on the healthcare system. Data analysis is needed to determine the exact physician-to-patient ratio within 39452, specifically focusing on PCPs. This ratio directly impacts the speed with which patients can access care. A higher ratio, indicating a greater availability of PCPs, would contribute positively to the LCS. Conversely, a lower ratio would negatively impact the score, suggesting potential access limitations.

Specialist availability is another critical element. The presence of pulmonologists, oncologists, thoracic surgeons, and radiation oncologists within or near 39452 is vital. These specialists are essential for diagnosis, staging, treatment planning, and ongoing care for lung cancer patients. Proximity to specialized cancer centers, even if outside the immediate ZIP code, is beneficial. The LCS benefits from the presence of these specialists, and the score diminishes with their absence or limited availability.

The quality of primary care practices significantly influences the LCS. This includes factors such as the implementation of evidence-based screening guidelines, the use of electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient information sharing, and the adoption of preventative care strategies, such as smoking cessation programs. Practices demonstrating a commitment to these elements receive higher scores. Practices that lag in these areas may indicate gaps in care that negatively affect the LCS.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas like Lucedale. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely, receive follow-up care, and participate in support groups. The availability of telemedicine services for lung cancer patients, especially for consultations and remote monitoring, enhances the LCS. Practices actively utilizing telemedicine technologies score higher than those without such capabilities.

Mental health resources are crucial for lung cancer patients. A cancer diagnosis can lead to significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and fear. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within the community is a vital component of a comprehensive LCS. Access to support groups, both in-person and online, also contributes positively. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care plans receive higher scores. The absence of these resources negatively impacts the LCS.

Standout practices within the 39452 area, or within a reasonable driving distance, deserve specific recognition. These practices might demonstrate excellence in one or more areas, such as early detection, patient education, or comprehensive care. Identifying and highlighting these standout practices can serve as a benchmark for others and provide patients with information about quality care options. A practice that consistently demonstrates a commitment to patient-centered care and positive outcomes would contribute significantly to a higher LCS.

Data analysis is needed to determine the specific LCS for 39452. This would involve collecting data on the factors discussed above, including physician-to-patient ratios, specialist availability, primary care quality metrics, telemedicine adoption rates, and the availability of mental health resources. The data would then be weighted and scored to arrive at an overall LCS. This score would then be used to assess the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in the area and to identify areas for improvement.

The overall LCS for 39452 is likely to be influenced by its rural setting. The limited population density may result in lower physician-to-patient ratios and potentially fewer specialist options. However, the community's commitment to healthcare, the adoption of telemedicine, and the presence of dedicated primary care practices can mitigate these challenges. The specific score will reflect the balance of these factors.

The final LCS score, once determined, would provide a valuable snapshot of the healthcare landscape for lung cancer patients in the area. It can inform patients about the quality of care available, guide healthcare providers in identifying areas for improvement, and help policymakers make informed decisions about resource allocation. The ongoing monitoring of the LCS would allow for tracking progress and ensuring that the community is providing the best possible care for those affected by lung cancer.

The analysis also needs to consider the socioeconomic factors that might affect the LCS. These factors include income levels, insurance coverage rates, and access to transportation. These factors can impact patients' ability to access care and adhere to treatment plans. The LCS should be adjusted to account for these disparities.

In conclusion, a comprehensive Lung Cancer Score for ZIP code 39452 requires detailed data collection and analysis across various healthcare domains. The score will reflect the interplay of physician availability, specialist access, primary care quality, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. The resulting LCS will provide valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system, ultimately aiming to improve outcomes for lung cancer patients.

To visualize and explore the healthcare landscape in 39452 and surrounding areas, including physician locations, hospital access, and other relevant data, we encourage you to utilize CartoChrome maps. This powerful tool can help you gain a deeper understanding of the resources available and the challenges faced in accessing care.