39563, Moss Point, Mississippi Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 39563, Moss Point, Mississippi is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 80.56 percent of the residents in 39563 has some form of health insurance. 41.34 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.17 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 39563 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,731 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39563. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,258 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,868 health care providers accessible to residents in 39563, Moss Point, Mississippi.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Moss Point, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39563)**

The health landscape of Moss Point, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39563), requires a comprehensive evaluation to assess its capacity to address lung cancer detection, treatment, and patient support. This analysis will focus on primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, ultimately providing a "Lung Cancer Score" perspective. This score isn't a single numerical value but rather a qualitative assessment based on the factors discussed.

Primary care physicians are the gatekeepers of early detection. Their ability to identify at-risk individuals, order screenings, and make timely referrals is critical. In Moss Point, the accessibility of primary care is a crucial factor. The current physician-to-patient ratio needs careful examination. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, could mean longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. Data from state and national sources, such as the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA), must be consulted to determine the current ratio and compare it to state and national averages.

The availability of primary care physicians in Moss Point is a critical component of the Lung Cancer Score. The proximity of these physicians to the population, considering geographical barriers, is essential. Rural areas often face challenges in physician recruitment and retention. This scarcity can hinder access to timely care, impacting the Lung Cancer Score negatively. The presence of Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) or other community health clinics that provide primary care services is an important factor. These facilities often serve vulnerable populations and can mitigate some of the access issues.

Standout practices within Moss Point are those demonstrating a commitment to early detection and comprehensive patient care. These practices will likely have a robust screening program for high-risk individuals, adhering to guidelines from organizations like the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF). They should proactively identify smokers and former smokers, offering smoking cessation programs and counseling. Furthermore, they should be equipped to navigate the complex referral pathways to specialists, including pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons, ensuring patients receive timely and appropriate treatment. These practices are the beacons of hope in the fight against lung cancer.

The adoption of telemedicine is a game-changer, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely, receive follow-up care, and participate in support groups. The Lung Cancer Score benefits significantly from the availability and utilization of telemedicine services. The presence of reliable internet infrastructure is a prerequisite. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and patient education, will contribute positively to the score.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked but critical aspect of cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can have a profound impact on a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges. The availability of mental health resources, including therapists, counselors, and support groups, is essential for comprehensive patient care. The Lung Cancer Score should reflect the integration of mental health services into the overall treatment plan. Practices that offer on-site counseling, referrals to mental health professionals, or partnerships with support organizations will enhance the score.

The Lung Cancer Score for Moss Point, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39563) is not easily quantifiable. It’s a composite of factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, primary care availability, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources all contribute. A low physician-to-patient ratio and limited access to primary care will diminish the score. The presence of practices prioritizing early detection, embracing telemedicine, and integrating mental health services will improve it.

The challenges facing Moss Point, Mississippi, are not unique. Rural communities across the nation often struggle with healthcare access. However, by focusing on strengthening primary care, promoting early detection, and integrating mental health support, Moss Point can improve its Lung Cancer Score and provide better care for its residents.

This analysis emphasizes the importance of data-driven decision-making. Accurate, up-to-date information on physician availability, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources is essential for effective planning and resource allocation. The local health authorities, hospitals, and community organizations must collaborate to address the specific needs of the population.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for Moss Point, Mississippi, is likely moderate, with significant room for improvement. Addressing the physician shortage, expanding telemedicine services, and integrating mental health support are crucial steps toward improving the score.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Moss Point, Mississippi, and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their mapping tools can provide valuable insights into physician locations, access to care, and other relevant data points.