39470, Poplarville, Mississippi Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 39470, Poplarville, Mississippi is 8 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.36 percent of the residents in 39470 has some form of health insurance. 42.37 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.61 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 39470 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,654 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39470. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,201 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 482 health care providers accessible to residents in 39470, Poplarville, Mississippi.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Poplarville, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39470)**

Poplarville, Mississippi, a town nestled in Pearl River County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare, particularly concerning lung cancer detection and treatment. Evaluating the quality of care requires a multifaceted approach, considering physician availability, resource accessibility, and the adoption of innovative practices. This analysis focuses on creating a ‘Lung Cancer Score’ for doctors in ZIP Code 39470, considering key factors that influence patient outcomes.

The foundation of any healthcare system lies in the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). Poplarville’s primary care availability significantly impacts the early detection of lung cancer. Early detection is critical for improved survival rates. The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per patient, can lead to delayed appointments, reduced screening opportunities, and less time for comprehensive patient education. The current ratio needs to be researched. The availability of PCPs directly affects the ability to implement lung cancer screening programs, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, which are recommended for high-risk individuals.

Beyond the numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This involves the ability of PCPs to identify risk factors, conduct thorough patient histories, and effectively communicate the importance of screening. The ‘Lung Cancer Score’ must consider the practices' adherence to national guidelines for lung cancer screening. This includes the frequency of screening, the use of validated risk assessment tools, and the referral process for patients with suspicious findings. The score should also evaluate the integration of smoking cessation programs, a vital component of lung cancer prevention and treatment.

Specialist availability, particularly pulmonologists and oncologists, is another critical factor. Poplarville's proximity to larger medical centers, such as those in Hattiesburg or New Orleans, can influence access to specialists. The ‘Lung Cancer Score’ will assess the ease of referral to specialists, the average wait times for appointments, and the availability of advanced diagnostic and treatment modalities. This includes access to advanced imaging techniques, minimally invasive surgical procedures, and the latest chemotherapy and immunotherapy options.

Telemedicine adoption is gaining importance. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, providing access to specialists and follow-up care, particularly for patients in rural areas. The ‘Lung Cancer Score’ must evaluate the telemedicine capabilities of local practices, including the availability of virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring, and online educational resources. This is especially relevant for patients undergoing treatment or follow-up care, reducing the need for frequent travel.

Mental health resources are often overlooked, but they play a crucial role in cancer care. A cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The ‘Lung Cancer Score’ must assess the availability of mental health support services for patients, including access to therapists, counselors, and support groups. Integration of mental health services into the overall cancer care plan can significantly improve patient well-being and adherence to treatment.

Standout practices within ZIP Code 39470 deserve recognition. Identifying practices that excel in specific areas, such as early detection, patient education, or patient-centered care, can help to improve the overall quality of care. The ‘Lung Cancer Score’ will highlight any practices that demonstrate exceptional performance, serving as a model for others to emulate. This could involve practices that have implemented comprehensive screening programs, offer patient navigators to guide patients through the treatment process, or have a strong focus on patient communication and shared decision-making.

The ‘Lung Cancer Score’ should also consider the community’s health literacy and awareness of lung cancer. Public health initiatives, educational campaigns, and community outreach programs can significantly impact early detection and prevention efforts. The score will assess the presence and effectiveness of such programs in Poplarville, evaluating their reach and impact on the community. This includes assessing the availability of educational materials, the frequency of community events, and the involvement of local healthcare providers in promoting lung cancer awareness.

The ‘Lung Cancer Score’ is not merely a numerical ranking. It is a comprehensive evaluation of the healthcare landscape in Poplarville, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement. It serves as a tool for patients to make informed decisions about their care, for healthcare providers to benchmark their performance, and for policymakers to identify areas for investment and improvement. The score is a dynamic measure, reflecting the ongoing efforts to improve lung cancer care in the community.

To understand the spatial distribution of healthcare resources and identify potential gaps in care within Poplarville and the surrounding areas, consider utilizing the power of geographic visualization. CartoChrome Maps can provide detailed maps, allowing for a visual analysis of physician locations, healthcare facility accessibility, and demographic data relevant to lung cancer risk factors.