39466, Picayune, Mississippi Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 39466, Picayune, Mississippi is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.85 percent of the residents in 39466 has some form of health insurance. 39.70 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.57 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 39466 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 7,508 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39466. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,803 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 379 health care providers accessible to residents in 39466, Picayune, Mississippi.

## Lung Cancer Score: Picayune, MS (ZIP Code 39466)

Analyzing the landscape of lung cancer care in Picayune, Mississippi (ZIP code 39466) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis aims to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial factors in the fight against this devastating disease. This assessment is not a definitive ranking, but rather an informed overview based on available data and industry insights.

Picayune, like many rural communities, faces unique challenges in healthcare access. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is the cornerstone of early detection and effective management of lung cancer. A robust primary care network facilitates regular screenings, addresses initial symptoms, and provides crucial referrals to specialists. A low PCP-to-patient ratio can significantly impact access to care, leading to delayed diagnoses and poorer patient outcomes. Assessing this ratio in Picayune is paramount.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. While precise, up-to-the-minute figures are often difficult to obtain publicly, estimations can be made using data from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and state medical boards. These sources provide insights into the number of practicing physicians within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of PCPs, necessitates strategies to improve access, such as incentivizing physician recruitment and retention.

Identifying standout practices within the Picayune area is essential. These practices often demonstrate best practices in patient care, including proactive screening programs, efficient referral processes, and a commitment to patient education. Researching the patient reviews, accreditation status, and the availability of advanced diagnostic tools like low-dose CT scans can help identify these practices. Furthermore, assessing the practice's involvement in community outreach programs related to lung cancer awareness and prevention is important.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, particularly in rural areas like Picayune. It enables patients to consult with specialists remotely, receive follow-up care, and access educational resources without the need for extensive travel. The availability of telemedicine services, especially for pulmonology and oncology consultations, can significantly improve access to specialized care for lung cancer patients. Evaluating the number of practices offering telehealth options and the types of services provided is key.

The integration of mental health resources into lung cancer care is often overlooked but is profoundly important. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, within primary care practices or through referral networks, is vital. Assessing the integration of these services, including the availability of support groups and mental health resources, is a core component of the "Lung Cancer Score."

Furthermore, the availability of support groups and patient navigators is essential. Support groups provide a platform for patients to connect with others facing similar challenges, offering emotional support and practical advice. Patient navigators guide patients through the complex healthcare system, assisting with appointments, insurance claims, and other logistical hurdles. The presence of these resources within the community or through partnerships with cancer centers enhances the quality of care.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Picayune, MS (39466) would be impacted by several factors. A high score would reflect a robust primary care network with a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, widespread telemedicine adoption, the presence of standout practices with proactive screening programs, and the seamless integration of mental health resources and patient support services. Conversely, a lower score would indicate challenges in these areas, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to improve access and quality of care.

The overall assessment of lung cancer care in Picayune is a dynamic process. It requires continuous monitoring of physician availability, telemedicine adoption rates, and the integration of mental health resources. Regular updates and adjustments to the "Lung Cancer Score" are essential to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape.

To further explore the healthcare landscape of Picayune, MS, and visualize the distribution of resources, patient demographics, and other critical data points, consider utilizing the powerful mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of the data, allowing for a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities in lung cancer care within the community.