38961, Tillatoba, Mississippi Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 38961, Tillatoba, Mississippi is 9 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.96 percent of the residents in 38961 has some form of health insurance. 43.35 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.79 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 38961 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 52 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 38961. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 224 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 108 health care providers accessible to residents in 38961, Tillatoba, Mississippi.

**Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Tillatoba, MS (ZIP Code 38961)**

The analysis focuses on evaluating the availability and quality of prostate cancer care within ZIP Code 38961, which encompasses the town of Tillatoba, Mississippi, and its surrounding rural areas. The assessment considers factors crucial to patient outcomes, including physician accessibility, healthcare infrastructure, and mental health support, all within the context of primary care availability. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare landscape, highlighting strengths and weaknesses.

The primary challenge in Tillatoba and similar rural communities is the limited availability of specialized medical care, particularly urology services, which are directly involved in the diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. In a rural area like Tillatoba, the ratio is likely to be significantly higher than in urban centers. This means fewer physicians are available to serve a larger population, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments, delays in diagnosis, and reduced opportunities for preventative screenings. The scarcity of specialists necessitates patients often traveling to larger cities like Oxford or Memphis for specialized care, adding to the burden of healthcare access.

Primary care physicians (PCPs) play a vital role in prostate cancer care, acting as the first point of contact for patients, conducting initial screenings, and providing referrals to specialists. The availability of PCPs in Tillatoba is therefore a crucial factor. A robust primary care network can facilitate early detection through regular check-ups and PSA (prostate-specific antigen) testing. However, the geographical distribution of PCPs within the ZIP code, and their capacity to take on new patients, are important considerations. The presence of a well-staffed primary care clinic is a significant advantage.

The analysis of standout practices is challenging due to the limited information available about individual clinics and their performance metrics in a small, rural setting. However, it is possible to identify practices that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive patient care. These practices might be characterized by their adoption of advanced diagnostic tools, integration of patient education programs, and a focus on patient-centered care. The presence of certified nurse practitioners (CNPs) or physician assistants (PAs) can also expand the capacity for patient care, improving access to services.

Telemedicine adoption is a crucial element in bridging the healthcare gap in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care. The availability of telemedicine services for urology consultations, follow-up appointments, and patient education is a significant advantage. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can provide a higher level of care to patients in Tillatoba.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but essential component of cancer care. A prostate cancer diagnosis can have a significant impact on a patient's emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health services, such as counseling and support groups, is crucial for providing holistic care. The presence of mental health professionals, either within primary care practices or through referral networks, can significantly improve patient outcomes. The integration of mental health services into cancer care pathways is a key indicator of a patient-centered approach.

The infrastructure supporting healthcare delivery is also a significant factor. This includes the availability of diagnostic imaging services, such as MRI and ultrasound, which are essential for prostate cancer diagnosis and staging. The presence of a local laboratory for blood tests, including PSA testing, streamlines the diagnostic process. The availability of transportation services for patients who may have difficulty traveling to appointments is also a critical consideration.

The quality of care is also influenced by the availability of patient education resources. Patients need to be informed about their diagnosis, treatment options, and potential side effects. Practices that provide educational materials, support groups, and access to reliable online resources are better equipped to support patients through their cancer journey. The availability of resources in plain language, and in multiple languages if necessary, is important for ensuring that all patients can understand the information.

The overall score for prostate cancer care in ZIP Code 38961 is likely to be lower than in urban areas due to the challenges of rural healthcare. The limited availability of specialists, the high physician-to-patient ratio, and the potential lack of access to advanced diagnostic tools and telemedicine services all contribute to this. However, the presence of a strong primary care network, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources can improve the score.

The analysis also considers the impact of social determinants of health. These factors, such as socioeconomic status, education level, and access to healthy food, can significantly influence patient outcomes. In a rural area like Tillatoba, these factors may present additional challenges to healthcare access and quality.

In conclusion, the prostate cancer care landscape in Tillatoba, MS (ZIP Code 38961) faces challenges common to rural areas. The availability of specialists, telemedicine adoption, and integration of mental health resources are crucial. Further research, including detailed information about individual practices and their performance metrics, is needed to provide a more comprehensive assessment.
For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Tillatoba, MS, and to explore the distribution of healthcare resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide valuable insights into physician locations, primary care availability, and other relevant factors.