38773, Shaw, Mississippi Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 38773, Shaw, Mississippi is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.08 percent of the residents in 38773 has some form of health insurance. 58.76 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 37.95 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 38773 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 720 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 38773. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 660 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 547 health care providers accessible to residents in 38773, Shaw, Mississippi.

**Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Shaw, Mississippi (ZIP Code 38773)**

This analysis delves into the landscape of prostate cancer care within ZIP code 38773, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care, a crucial element in early detection and management. We will examine physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and consider the availability of mental health resources, all within the context of Shaw, Mississippi. This comprehensive evaluation will provide insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare infrastructure, ultimately informing residents about the accessibility and quality of prostate cancer care in their community.

The foundation of effective prostate cancer management begins with accessible and competent primary care. Regular checkups, including prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests and digital rectal exams, are vital for early detection. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of access. A high ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses. Data on the exact physician-to-patient ratio within ZIP code 38773 is essential for a thorough assessment. Publicly available resources from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and state medical boards should be consulted to determine the number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the area and the estimated population they serve. This ratio provides a baseline understanding of the community's ability to access preventative care.

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors. These include the presence of board-certified primary care physicians, the availability of on-site diagnostic services (such as blood draws for PSA testing), and the integration of electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient communication and coordination of care. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient education, providing resources on prostate cancer risk factors, symptoms, and screening guidelines, are particularly valuable. Further, the practice's ability to facilitate timely referrals to urologists, when necessary, is a key indicator of quality. Researching online reviews, patient testimonials, and practice websites can provide valuable insights into the reputation and patient experience associated with different primary care providers in Shaw.

Telemedicine adoption has the potential to significantly improve access to healthcare, especially in rural areas like Shaw. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and minimizing potential disruptions to daily life. The availability of telehealth services for primary care consultations, follow-up appointments, and even initial screenings can be a game-changer. Practices that offer telemedicine options should be recognized for their innovation and commitment to patient convenience. Assessing the types of telemedicine platforms used, the availability of virtual appointments, and the integration of telehealth services into the practice's overall workflow are crucial.

The emotional and psychological impact of a prostate cancer diagnosis can be substantial. Access to mental health resources is therefore a critical component of comprehensive care. Primary care practices that have established partnerships with mental health professionals or offer on-site counseling services are highly desirable. The ability to connect patients with therapists, counselors, or support groups can significantly improve their overall well-being and contribute to better treatment outcomes. Assessing the availability of mental health resources, including the presence of behavioral health specialists and the provision of mental health support, is essential.

The availability of specialty care is also critical. While primary care physicians are the first line of defense, timely referrals to urologists are essential for diagnosis and treatment. The presence of urologists within a reasonable distance from Shaw is a significant factor. Assessing the availability of urology specialists, the ease of referral processes, and the coordination of care between primary care physicians and urologists is important.

The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. Assessing the adoption of innovative technologies is important. Practices that embrace technology, such as patient portals, mobile apps, and remote monitoring devices, can improve patient engagement and care coordination. The use of these technologies can streamline communication, provide patients with access to their medical records, and facilitate remote monitoring of health conditions. The assessment should consider the use of these technologies.

The overall assessment of prostate cancer care in Shaw, Mississippi, requires a holistic approach. It involves evaluating the availability of primary care physicians, the quality of their services, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the ease of access to specialty care. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare infrastructure, empowering residents to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

The findings of this analysis, including physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resource availability, are crucial for understanding the state of prostate cancer care in Shaw. This information can be used to identify areas for improvement, advocate for better healthcare services, and empower residents to proactively manage their health. This analysis serves as a starting point for a more detailed exploration of the healthcare landscape in Shaw.

For a visual representation of the healthcare resources in Shaw, Mississippi, and surrounding areas, including the locations of primary care physicians, urologists, and mental health providers, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. These maps can help you visualize the geographical distribution of healthcare providers and assess the accessibility of care in your community.