39576, Waveland, Mississippi Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 39576, Waveland, Mississippi is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.53 percent of the residents in 39576 has some form of health insurance. 39.05 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.34 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 39576 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,540 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39576. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 955 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 747 health care providers accessible to residents in 39576, Waveland, Mississippi.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Waveland, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39576)**

This analysis evaluates the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP code 39576, focusing on primary care physician (PCP) availability and related resources in Waveland, Mississippi. The goal is to provide a nuanced "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, considering factors crucial for timely diagnosis, treatment, and support for individuals facing this serious illness.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Primary Care Access**

A cornerstone of effective lung cancer management is early detection, often facilitated by regular checkups with a PCP. The physician-to-patient ratio in Waveland is a critical metric. Unfortunately, precise, up-to-the-minute data on this specific ZIP code is challenging to obtain. National averages, however, suggest a concerning trend in many rural areas, where the ratio of PCPs to patients can be significantly higher than in urban centers. This can translate to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and referrals. The availability of a PCP is the first step in a journey that requires a dedicated professional.

The accessibility of primary care is further impacted by factors beyond the raw physician count. These include the acceptance of new patients by local practices, the hours of operation, and the availability of after-hours or weekend care. Practices with extended hours or offering same-day appointments can improve access, particularly for individuals experiencing symptoms that warrant immediate attention. The availability of transportation, especially for elderly or low-income patients, adds another layer of complexity.

**Standout Practices and Their Impact**

Identifying standout practices requires a deep dive into the operational and clinical aspects of each facility. Practices that prioritize preventative care, including routine lung cancer screenings for at-risk individuals (smokers, former smokers, those with a family history), deserve recognition. This includes adherence to guidelines from organizations like the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) regarding low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) screening for high-risk individuals.

Practices that employ patient navigators or care coordinators play a vital role. These individuals act as liaisons between patients, PCPs, specialists (pulmonologists, oncologists, radiologists), and support services. They help patients navigate the complex healthcare system, schedule appointments, manage paperwork, and access resources. This is especially important for lung cancer patients, who often face multiple appointments and treatments.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Role**

Telemedicine has the potential to significantly improve access to care, particularly in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by PCPs in Waveland is a crucial factor in the "Lung Cancer Score." Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, allowing patients to connect with their PCP or specialists remotely. This is particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and providing support to patients who may have difficulty traveling to in-person appointments.

The effectiveness of telemedicine depends on several factors, including the availability of reliable internet access in the community, the technological proficiency of both patients and providers, and the reimbursement policies of insurance providers. Practices that offer telemedicine options, especially for follow-up care and consultations, contribute positively to the overall score.

**Mental Health Resources: A Critical Component**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Access to mental health resources is therefore an integral part of comprehensive care. The availability of mental health professionals (psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists) in the Waveland area is a significant factor in this analysis.

Practices that screen patients for depression, anxiety, and other mental health concerns, and that have established referral pathways to mental health services, are highly valued. This includes access to support groups, counseling services, and psychiatric care. The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan is essential for improving patient outcomes and quality of life.

**Specific Considerations for Lung Cancer Care**

Beyond general primary care, specific aspects related to lung cancer are important. The presence of pulmonologists (specialists in lung diseases) and oncologists (cancer specialists) in or near Waveland is crucial. The proximity to hospitals equipped with advanced diagnostic tools, such as CT scanners and bronchoscopy suites, is another factor.

Furthermore, the availability of smoking cessation programs is critical. PCPs play a key role in helping patients quit smoking, which is the leading cause of lung cancer. Practices that offer or refer patients to evidence-based smoking cessation programs, including counseling and medication, significantly improve patient outcomes.

**Overall "Lung Cancer Score" Assessment**

Based on the available information, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Waveland, Mississippi (39576) is likely to be moderate, with potential for improvement. The key areas for enhancement include:

* **Increasing PCP availability and reducing patient-to-physician ratios.**
* **Promoting early detection through routine screenings.**
* **Expanding telemedicine adoption to improve access.**
* **Strengthening mental health support services.**
* **Facilitating access to smoking cessation programs.**

The score is subject to change based on the dynamic nature of healthcare and the availability of more granular data.

**Call to Action: Explore with CartoChrome Maps**

To gain a more detailed understanding of the healthcare landscape in Waveland and surrounding areas, including the locations of PCPs, specialists, hospitals, and support services, explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive visualizations that allow you to explore the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, assess access to care, and make informed decisions about your health.