39501, Gulfport, Mississippi Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 39501, Gulfport, Mississippi is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 77.56 percent of the residents in 39501 has some form of health insurance. 48.40 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 39.43 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 39501 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,006 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39501. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,017 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,591 health care providers accessible to residents in 39501, Gulfport, Mississippi.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Gulfport, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39501)

This analysis assesses the healthcare landscape in Gulfport, Mississippi (ZIP code 39501), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer care, particularly primary care availability and the performance of local physicians. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the resources available to patients in this area, considering the complex needs of those facing a lung cancer diagnosis. We will examine physician-to-patient ratios, highlight notable practices, explore the adoption of telemedicine, and evaluate the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components of comprehensive cancer care.

The foundation of effective lung cancer management rests heavily on accessible and competent primary care. Early detection is paramount, and primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients exhibiting symptoms. In Gulfport, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. While precise figures fluctuate, the overall ratio in Mississippi, and by extension, Gulfport, often lags behind national averages. This means fewer PCPs are available to serve a potentially larger population, impacting appointment wait times and the ability to build strong patient-physician relationships, both crucial for proactive screening and early diagnosis. A shortage of PCPs can also lead to increased reliance on emergency room visits for non-emergent issues, further straining the healthcare system.

Primary care availability is intricately linked to the overall health of the population. Individuals with chronic conditions, smokers, and those with a family history of lung cancer require particularly attentive primary care. The presence of specialized pulmonologists and oncologists is also vital. While this analysis focuses on primary care, the seamless integration of specialists into a patient's care plan is essential. The availability of these specialists, their experience, and their willingness to collaborate with PCPs directly influence the quality of lung cancer care.

Identifying standout practices within the 39501 ZIP code requires a deeper dive into specific clinic performance. Publicly available data, such as patient satisfaction scores, ratings, and reviews, can offer initial insights. However, a comprehensive evaluation would involve analyzing factors like the practice's commitment to preventative care, their screening protocols for high-risk individuals, and their ability to coordinate referrals to specialists. Practices that actively promote smoking cessation programs and provide education about lung cancer risk factors deserve recognition. Furthermore, the integration of electronic health records (EHRs) and the use of data analytics to track patient outcomes are indicators of a forward-thinking practice.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in geographically dispersed areas like Gulfport. Telemedicine offers the potential to improve access to care, especially for patients who have mobility limitations or live in rural areas. This technology facilitates virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and access to specialists who may not be readily available locally. The extent to which local practices have embraced telemedicine, including the types of services offered and the ease of access for patients, directly impacts the overall quality of care. Practices that utilize telemedicine for follow-up appointments, medication management, and patient education demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and improved outcomes.

The emotional toll of a lung cancer diagnosis is substantial. Patients often experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources is therefore a crucial component of comprehensive cancer care. This includes access to licensed therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in oncology. Practices that actively screen for mental health issues and offer referrals to appropriate resources are demonstrating a holistic approach to patient care. The integration of mental health services into the overall treatment plan can significantly improve a patient's quality of life and their ability to cope with the physical and emotional challenges of cancer.

The success of lung cancer treatment relies on a coordinated approach. This means that PCPs, pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, and mental health professionals must work together seamlessly. Communication and collaboration are key. Practices that have established strong referral networks and utilize shared electronic health records systems are better equipped to ensure that patients receive the coordinated care they need. Regular multidisciplinary tumor boards, where physicians from different specialties discuss individual patient cases, are another indicator of a commitment to collaborative care.

Assessing the overall “Lung Cancer Score” for doctors in ZIP code 39501 is a complex undertaking. It involves evaluating multiple factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The ideal scenario involves a high physician-to-patient ratio, practices that prioritize preventative care and early detection, widespread adoption of telemedicine, and readily available mental health support. The ability of local healthcare providers to collaborate effectively and provide coordinated care is essential.

The data suggests that while Gulfport has healthcare resources, like many areas, there is room for improvement in several areas. Addressing the physician shortage, promoting telemedicine adoption, and expanding access to mental health services are critical steps towards improving the quality of lung cancer care. A comprehensive assessment requires ongoing monitoring and evaluation.

To visualize and explore the healthcare landscape in Gulfport and gain a deeper understanding of the resources available, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. These maps can help you identify healthcare providers, assess accessibility, and gain valuable insights into the local healthcare environment.