39573, Perkinston, Mississippi Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 39573, Perkinston, Mississippi is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.73 percent of the residents in 39573 has some form of health insurance. 33.61 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.17 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 39573 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,230 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39573. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,661 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 410 health care providers accessible to residents in 39573, Perkinston, Mississippi.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 39573 and Primary Care in Perkinston

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of healthcare resources relevant to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support within ZIP code 39573, focusing on primary care access in the nearby town of Perkinston. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare landscape, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and potential areas for improvement. The analysis incorporates factors crucial for lung cancer patients, including physician availability, mental health support, and the adoption of innovative technologies like telemedicine.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on robust primary care. Early detection is paramount, and primary care physicians (PCPs) often serve as the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms. In Perkinston, the availability of PCPs directly impacts the likelihood of timely diagnosis and intervention. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical first step. Data from the Mississippi State Department of Health, combined with population estimates for Perkinston, can provide an initial understanding of PCP accessibility. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of PCPs relative to the population, presents a significant challenge. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and potentially poorer outcomes for patients.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is equally important. This includes the experience and expertise of the PCPs, their familiarity with lung cancer risk factors, and their commitment to preventive care, such as smoking cessation programs and lung cancer screenings. Investigating the practices of PCPs in Perkinston involves researching their affiliations with hospitals and specialists, their use of electronic health records (EHRs), and their commitment to patient education. Practices that actively promote preventative screenings and provide easy access to specialists will be considered more favorably.

The availability of specialists within and around 39573 is another critical factor. Oncologists, pulmonologists, radiologists, and thoracic surgeons are all essential for providing comprehensive lung cancer care. Identifying the number of these specialists practicing in the area, their hospital affiliations, and their specific areas of expertise is crucial. Are there enough specialists to meet the needs of the population? Are they readily accessible, or do patients face long travel times or wait times for appointments? The presence of a comprehensive cancer center, offering a multidisciplinary approach to treatment, would be a significant advantage.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption by PCPs and specialists in 39573 and Perkinston can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients who may have difficulty traveling. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption involves investigating the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and online patient portals. Practices that embrace telemedicine can provide more convenient and timely care, reducing the burden on patients and improving overall outcomes.

Mental health support is often overlooked but is essential for lung cancer patients. The diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within the community is critical. This analysis will investigate the presence of mental health services in 39573 and Perkinston, including the availability of therapists specializing in oncology and the accessibility of support groups. The integration of mental health services into the overall cancer care plan is a sign of a patient-centered approach.

Standout practices within 39573 and Perkinston will be identified based on their commitment to comprehensive care, patient-centeredness, and innovation. This includes practices that offer early detection programs, integrate telemedicine, provide robust mental health support, and demonstrate a commitment to patient education and communication. These practices will serve as models for other healthcare providers in the area, highlighting best practices and encouraging continuous improvement. The analysis will also consider the availability of patient navigators, who can help patients navigate the complex healthcare system and access the resources they need.

The analysis will also consider the availability of resources for smoking cessation, a crucial factor in preventing lung cancer and improving outcomes for patients. This includes the availability of smoking cessation programs, nicotine replacement therapy, and counseling services. Practices that actively promote smoking cessation and provide support to patients who are trying to quit will be considered more favorably.

The overall “Lung Cancer Score” for 39573 and Perkinston will be a composite score, reflecting the availability and quality of various healthcare resources. The score will be based on the physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, the presence of mental health support, and the availability of smoking cessation programs. The score will provide a comprehensive assessment of the local healthcare landscape, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and potential areas for improvement.

This analysis aims to provide a clear and concise overview of the healthcare resources available to lung cancer patients in 39573 and Perkinston. The information presented is intended to be informative and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. Patients should always consult with their healthcare providers for personalized guidance and treatment recommendations.

For a deeper dive into the spatial relationships and geographic distribution of healthcare resources in your area, explore the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome. Their platform allows you to visualize data, identify areas of need, and gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape.