39189, Walnut Grove, Mississippi Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 39189, Walnut Grove, Mississippi is 10 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.79 percent of the residents in 39189 has some form of health insurance. 55.41 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 39.23 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 39189 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,149 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39189. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 331 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 154 health care providers accessible to residents in 39189, Walnut Grove, Mississippi.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Walnut Grove, MS (ZIP Code 39189)

This analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of prostate cancer care within Walnut Grove, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39189), focusing on primary care availability and related resources. It aims to evaluate the quality of care accessible to residents, considering factors that influence early detection, treatment, and overall well-being. The assessment is designed to be informative, highlighting strengths and weaknesses within the local healthcare landscape.

Evaluating prostate cancer care necessitates understanding the foundation of primary care. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are the initial point of contact for men experiencing symptoms or seeking preventative screenings. The availability of PCPs directly impacts the ability of men in Walnut Grove to access timely and appropriate care. Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical metric. Ideally, a lower ratio signifies a greater likelihood of patients receiving personalized attention and appointments within a reasonable timeframe. Researching the current physician-to-patient ratio within ZIP Code 39189 is paramount. Data from the Mississippi State Department of Health or the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) would be invaluable. If the ratio is high, it could indicate a shortage of PCPs, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses and treatment.

Beyond physician numbers, the distribution of PCPs within Walnut Grove is important. Are practices geographically accessible to all residents, including those in more rural areas? Public transportation options, while likely limited in a rural setting, should also be considered. The presence of a centralized clinic versus multiple smaller practices will influence accessibility. Examining the types of practices available – solo practices, group practices, or those affiliated with larger healthcare systems – will further refine the analysis. Affiliation with a larger system might offer advantages in terms of resources, such as specialized equipment or access to specialists.

Identifying standout practices within the Walnut Grove area is crucial. This involves evaluating practices based on several criteria. Patient reviews, available through platforms like Healthgrades or Vitals, offer insights into patient experiences, including wait times, communication, and overall satisfaction. Examining the practice's commitment to preventative care is another key factor. Do they actively promote prostate cancer screenings, such as prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests and digital rectal exams (DREs)? Do they offer educational materials about prostate health? Furthermore, the practice's adoption of technology, such as electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals, can significantly enhance the patient experience.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical element of modern healthcare. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, increasing access to care, particularly for those with mobility limitations or residing in remote areas. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services among PCPs in Walnut Grove is essential. Do they offer virtual consultations for follow-up appointments, medication management, or initial consultations? The availability of telemedicine can significantly improve access to care and reduce the burden on patients.

Prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a significant impact on a patient's mental health. The emotional toll of a cancer diagnosis, coupled with the physical side effects of treatment, necessitates access to mental health resources. Evaluating the availability of mental health support services within Walnut Grove is a critical component of this analysis. Are there mental health professionals, such as psychologists or psychiatrists, available in the area? Do PCPs have established referral pathways to mental health providers? The presence of support groups or counseling services specifically for cancer patients is also beneficial.

Furthermore, the availability of resources for cancer patients beyond mental health is important. This includes access to oncology specialists, radiation therapy centers, and support services like physical therapy and nutritional counseling. Examining the proximity of these services to Walnut Grove is crucial. If specialized care is not readily available locally, the analysis should consider the travel distance to the nearest facilities. This includes assessing transportation options for patients needing to travel for treatment.

The financial aspect of healthcare also plays a significant role. Evaluating the acceptance of various insurance plans by local practices is important. Do practices accept Medicare, Medicaid, and a range of private insurance plans? The availability of financial assistance programs for patients who cannot afford care should also be considered. This could include information on local charities or government programs that offer financial support.

The overall prostate cancer score for Walnut Grove will be influenced by the interplay of all these factors. A high score would indicate a robust healthcare system with ample access to PCPs, a commitment to preventative care, the availability of telemedicine, comprehensive mental health support, and access to specialized cancer care. A lower score would indicate areas needing improvement, such as physician shortages, limited access to telemedicine, or a lack of mental health resources.

This analysis would be incomplete without considering the demographics of Walnut Grove. The age distribution of the population, the prevalence of chronic diseases, and the socioeconomic status of residents all influence healthcare needs. Analyzing these demographic factors will provide a more nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape and allow for a more targeted assessment of needs.

Ultimately, improving prostate cancer care in Walnut Grove requires a collaborative effort. This includes PCPs, specialists, hospitals, community organizations, and the patients themselves. By understanding the current state of healthcare resources and identifying areas for improvement, it is possible to enhance the quality of care and improve outcomes for men in Walnut Grove.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Walnut Grove, including the location of practices, hospitals, and other relevant resources, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a detailed geographical overview of the area, allowing you to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources and identify potential gaps in access.