39307, Meridian, Mississippi Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 39307, Meridian, Mississippi is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 77.16 percent of the residents in 39307 has some form of health insurance. 46.04 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 40.01 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 39307 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,126 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39307. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,103 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,078 health care providers accessible to residents in 39307, Meridian, Mississippi.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Meridian, MS (ZIP Code 39307) and Primary Care Landscape

This analysis delves into the landscape of prostate cancer care and primary care availability within Meridian, Mississippi, specifically focusing on ZIP code 39307. We aim to provide a comprehensive assessment, considering factors crucial for patient well-being, including physician access, practice quality, technological adoption, and the availability of mental health support. This is not a definitive ranking, but rather an informed evaluation based on publicly available data and industry insights.

The foundation of quality prostate cancer care rests on accessible and skilled primary care physicians (PCPs). PCPs serve as the initial point of contact, crucial for early detection through screening, patient education, and referral to specialists. In Meridian, the physician-to-patient ratio within ZIP code 39307 is a critical indicator. While precise, up-to-the-minute ratios are difficult to ascertain due to constant population shifts and physician movements, publicly available data from sources like the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) and the Mississippi State Department of Health provide valuable insights. Analyzing these sources, along with local hospital and clinic information, allows for an estimation of PCP availability. A low ratio, indicating a higher number of patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnosis. Conversely, a favorable ratio suggests greater access to timely care.

Identifying standout primary care practices is vital. These practices often demonstrate excellence in patient care, preventive medicine, and patient education. Evaluating practice quality involves examining factors such as the use of electronic health records (EHRs), patient satisfaction scores (when available), and the integration of evidence-based guidelines for prostate cancer screening and management. Practices that actively promote prostate cancer awareness, offer comprehensive screening programs, and provide patient-centered care are likely to score higher in a quality assessment.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility challenges. Telemedicine allows for remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and the delivery of educational materials. The degree to which primary care practices in Meridian, MS (39307) have embraced telemedicine is a key factor in assessing accessibility. Practices utilizing telehealth platforms can potentially improve patient convenience and reduce barriers to care. Examining the availability of virtual appointments, remote monitoring capabilities, and the use of telehealth for patient education is crucial.

The link between physical and mental health, particularly in the context of a cancer diagnosis, is undeniable. Prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through readily accessible referrals is a critical component of comprehensive care. Evaluating the presence of mental health professionals within primary care practices, the availability of counseling services, and the existence of support groups for prostate cancer patients are all essential considerations.

The presence of a urologist is also critical. Meridian Regional Hospital and other local healthcare providers must be assessed for urology specialists. The proximity of these specialists to the primary care practices within 39307 influences the ease of referral and the speed of access to specialized care. Analyzing the availability of urologists, their expertise in prostate cancer treatment (including surgical and non-surgical options), and their integration with primary care practices is essential.

Further, the analysis must evaluate the resources available for prostate cancer patients beyond the doctor's office. This includes access to support groups, educational materials, and patient navigation services. Local hospitals and cancer centers often provide these resources, which can significantly improve the patient experience and outcomes. The availability of these resources, their accessibility, and their integration with primary care practices are all important factors.

In evaluating the quality of prostate cancer care, the utilization of advanced diagnostic tools is also important. Access to advanced imaging technologies, such as MRI and PET scans, can improve the accuracy of diagnosis and staging. The availability of these technologies within the local healthcare system influences the quality of care.

The overall "Prostate Cancer Score" for the primary care landscape in Meridian, MS (39307) is a complex calculation. It requires synthesizing data from multiple sources and weighting the factors discussed above. This analysis provides a framework for such an evaluation, emphasizing the importance of physician access, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and specialist availability.

Ultimately, the goal is to empower patients with the information they need to make informed decisions about their healthcare. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system, patients can proactively seek the best possible care. This analysis serves as a starting point for a more detailed investigation, encouraging patients to actively engage with their healthcare providers and advocate for their needs.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Meridian, MS (39307), including the location of primary care practices, specialists, and healthcare resources, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps can provide valuable insights into the geographic distribution of healthcare providers and resources, helping you to navigate the healthcare system more effectively.