39567, Pascagoula, Mississippi Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 39567, Pascagoula, Mississippi is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 81.28 percent of the residents in 39567 has some form of health insurance. 40.44 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 50.66 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 39567 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,774 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39567. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,679 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,868 health care providers accessible to residents in 39567, Pascagoula, Mississippi.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Pascagoula, MS (ZIP Code 39567)**

The following analysis assesses the availability and quality of healthcare resources in Pascagoula, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39567), with a specific focus on factors relevant to lung cancer detection, diagnosis, and treatment. This evaluation considers primary care access, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health support, all crucial elements in a comprehensive approach to patient care. The ultimate goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape in Pascagoula for individuals concerned about lung cancer and those seeking preventative care.

**Primary Care Availability: A Foundation for Early Detection**

The cornerstone of effective lung cancer management is early detection, and this begins with accessible primary care. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) within ZIP Code 39567 is a critical factor. Assessing the number of PCPs actively practicing within the area, along with their patient load, provides a preliminary understanding of access. A higher physician-to-patient ratio, indicating fewer patients per physician, generally suggests greater ease of access for appointments and preventative screenings. However, this must be considered alongside factors like appointment wait times and the presence of extended hours or weekend availability, which can significantly influence access to care.

In Pascagoula, the accessibility of primary care is likely influenced by the broader healthcare infrastructure of Jackson County. The presence of larger healthcare systems and hospitals within the county can provide a network of PCPs, offering greater choice and potentially shorter wait times. Conversely, a limited number of primary care providers or a high patient-to-physician ratio could pose challenges for residents seeking timely care, especially for those needing routine check-ups or experiencing symptoms that warrant further investigation. Proximity to clinics and hospitals is also important.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios: A Measure of Access**

Beyond the raw number of physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio is a vital metric. This ratio provides a quantifiable measure of access to care. A favorable ratio, meaning a lower number of patients per physician, often translates to shorter wait times for appointments, increased time spent with patients during consultations, and a greater likelihood of receiving comprehensive preventative care, including lung cancer screenings for at-risk individuals.

Data from sources like the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services and local health authorities should be consulted to determine the specific physician-to-patient ratio within ZIP Code 39567. This information will reveal the level of access residents have to primary care services. If the ratio is unfavorable, it may indicate a need for strategies to improve access, such as recruiting more physicians to the area, expanding clinic hours, or promoting the use of telemedicine.

**Standout Practices: Identifying Excellence**

Within Pascagoula, identifying practices that demonstrate excellence in patient care is crucial. This involves evaluating factors such as the use of evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening and diagnosis, the integration of electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient patient management, and the implementation of patient-centered care models. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives and demonstrate positive patient outcomes should be highlighted.

Furthermore, the presence of specialized services, such as smoking cessation programs or access to respiratory therapists, can significantly enhance the care provided to individuals at risk for or diagnosed with lung cancer. Practices that have established strong relationships with specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, are better positioned to provide coordinated and comprehensive care. Patient testimonials and online reviews can also provide valuable insights into the quality of care offered by individual practices.

**Telemedicine Adoption: Bridging the Distance**

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool for expanding access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas or for individuals with mobility limitations. The adoption of telemedicine technologies by primary care practices in Pascagoula is a key consideration. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, remote monitoring of patients, and the delivery of educational resources.

The availability of telehealth services can be particularly beneficial for lung cancer patients, allowing them to receive follow-up care, manage their medications, and connect with specialists without the need for frequent in-person visits. The use of telemedicine can also improve access to mental health services, which are essential for supporting patients coping with the emotional and psychological challenges of a cancer diagnosis. The ability of practices to offer telehealth appointments and the availability of reliable internet access in the area should be assessed.

**Mental Health Resources: A Crucial Component**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. The availability of mental health resources within Pascagoula is, therefore, a critical factor in the overall quality of care. Access to mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, is essential for providing support to patients and their families.

This includes assessing the availability of individual therapy, group support sessions, and access to psychiatric medication management. The integration of mental health services into primary care practices, through co-location or referral networks, can further enhance access to care. The existence of support groups specifically for cancer patients and survivors is also a valuable resource. The ability to provide resources for managing stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly improve patient outcomes and overall quality of life.

**Conclusion: A Call to Action**

This analysis provides a preliminary overview of the healthcare landscape in Pascagoula, MS (ZIP Code 39567), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer care. A deeper dive into the specifics of each metric is necessary to provide a comprehensive assessment. The information provided here should guide patients, healthcare providers, and community stakeholders in their efforts to improve access to care, enhance the quality of services, and ultimately, improve outcomes for individuals affected by lung cancer.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in Pascagoula and explore the distribution of resources, we encourage you to utilize CartoChrome maps. These maps provide interactive visualizations of healthcare data, allowing you to explore physician locations, clinic locations, and other relevant information.