39560, Long Beach, Mississippi Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 39560, Long Beach, Mississippi is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.00 percent of the residents in 39560 has some form of health insurance. 35.79 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.34 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 39560 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,500 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39560. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,833 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,955 health care providers accessible to residents in 39560, Long Beach, Mississippi.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 39560 & Primary Care Availability in Long Beach

This analysis assesses the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP Code 39560, encompassing Long Beach, Mississippi, focusing on primary care access, physician-to-patient ratios, innovative practices, telemedicine integration, and mental health support. The ultimate goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the resources available to patients facing a lung cancer diagnosis and to highlight areas for potential improvement.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests upon accessible and robust primary care. In Long Beach, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) directly impacts early detection and management. A scarcity of PCPs can lead to delayed diagnoses, as patients may struggle to secure timely appointments for screenings and symptom evaluations. The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial metric. A higher ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, can strain the healthcare system, leading to longer wait times, reduced appointment availability, and potentially, a decline in the quality of care. Data from the Mississippi State Department of Health and local healthcare providers will be essential to determine the precise physician-to-patient ratio within 39560. This data point provides a baseline understanding of the accessibility of primary care services.

Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs across the area is also significant. Are primary care practices concentrated in specific areas, leaving other neighborhoods underserved? This geographic analysis is critical to identifying potential health disparities and ensuring equitable access to care. Further research should delve into the types of primary care practices available. Are there community health centers, private practices, or hospital-affiliated clinics? Each model offers distinct advantages and disadvantages in terms of cost, accessibility, and the scope of services provided.

Standout practices within the area may be identified through patient reviews, physician referrals, and accreditations. Practices that emphasize patient-centered care, offer extended hours, or provide specialized services such as chronic disease management could be considered leaders in the field. Analyzing patient satisfaction scores, the implementation of evidence-based practices, and the integration of preventative care programs are all vital components of assessing the quality of primary care.

Telemedicine adoption is rapidly transforming healthcare delivery. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online educational resources can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural or underserved areas. The level of telemedicine integration among primary care practices in 39560 should be evaluated. Are practices utilizing telehealth platforms for routine check-ups, medication management, or specialist referrals? The availability of telehealth can be especially valuable for patients managing chronic conditions like lung cancer, allowing for convenient and frequent monitoring.

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can place a significant emotional burden on patients and their families. Mental health resources are therefore an essential component of comprehensive care. Assessing the availability of mental health services within the primary care network is critical. Do PCPs have access to on-site mental health professionals, or do they have established referral pathways to mental health specialists? The integration of mental health services into the primary care setting can help to address the psychological needs of patients, improving their overall well-being and treatment outcomes.

The evaluation of mental health resources should extend beyond the primary care setting. Are there local support groups, counseling services, or psychiatric care providers readily available to patients? Furthermore, access to these services should be assessed, including factors such as cost, insurance coverage, and wait times. Addressing the mental health needs of lung cancer patients requires a collaborative approach involving primary care physicians, mental health professionals, and community support organizations.

The analysis should also consider the level of integration between primary care practices and specialists, particularly pulmonologists and oncologists. Efficient communication and collaboration between these specialists are crucial for seamless care coordination. Are there established referral pathways, shared electronic health records, and regular multidisciplinary team meetings? The degree of integration between primary care and specialist care directly impacts the quality and efficiency of the patient journey.

In addition to the factors mentioned above, the analysis should consider the availability of resources related to lung cancer screening and treatment. Are there local facilities offering low-dose CT scans for early detection? Are there oncologists and radiation oncologists in the area who specialize in lung cancer treatment? Access to these resources is critical for ensuring timely diagnosis and effective treatment.

The analysis should also explore the availability of palliative care services. Palliative care focuses on improving the quality of life for patients with serious illnesses, including lung cancer. Assessing the availability of palliative care services, including pain management, symptom control, and emotional support, is crucial for providing comprehensive care.

The final "Lung Cancer Score" will reflect a composite assessment of all these factors. It will provide a snapshot of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape in 39560, specifically concerning the availability of resources for lung cancer patients. The score will be a valuable tool for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers seeking to improve the quality of care.

For a detailed visual representation of these healthcare resources, including geographic distribution and practice characteristics, explore the power of CartoChrome maps.