39451, Leakesville, Mississippi Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 39451, Leakesville, Mississippi is 1 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 43.57 percent of the residents in 39451 has some form of health insurance. 19.42 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 30.17 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 39451 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,335 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39451. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 618 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 218 health care providers accessible to residents in 39451, Leakesville, Mississippi.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Leakesville, MS (ZIP Code 39451)

This analysis provides an assessment of prostate cancer care accessibility and quality within Leakesville, Mississippi (ZIP code 39451), focusing on physician availability, practice characteristics, and the integration of telehealth and mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare landscape for individuals seeking prostate cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. This analysis does not constitute medical advice; consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.

The foundation of effective prostate cancer care rests on access to primary care physicians (PCPs). In Leakesville, the availability of PCPs directly impacts early detection and referral rates. Examining the physician-to-patient ratio within the ZIP code is crucial. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of PCPs relative to the population, can hinder timely access to care. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater availability, potentially leading to improved screening rates and earlier detection of prostate cancer. Publicly available data from the Mississippi State Department of Health, the US Census Bureau, and professional medical directories are essential for calculating this ratio accurately. Furthermore, the analysis must consider the age demographics of the population, as the risk of prostate cancer increases with age. A larger proportion of older adults necessitates a more robust primary care infrastructure.

Beyond raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs is critical. Are practices clustered in specific areas, leaving other parts of the ZIP code underserved? This geographic analysis is essential for identifying potential disparities in access. The presence of Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) or other safety-net providers is also significant, as these facilities often serve a larger proportion of the population and may offer specialized services related to prostate cancer screening.

Analyzing the specific characteristics of primary care practices in Leakesville is essential. Are practices accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate diverse schedules? Do they employ certified nurse practitioners (CNPs) or physician assistants (PAs), who can provide valuable support in primary care settings? The availability of electronic health records (EHRs) is also a key factor. EHRs facilitate efficient communication between PCPs and specialists, improving care coordination and reducing the potential for medical errors.

The analysis then moves to the availability of specialists, specifically urologists, within a reasonable travel distance from Leakesville. While PCPs are crucial for initial screening and referrals, urologists are the experts in diagnosing and treating prostate cancer. The distance to the nearest urologist, the number of urologists available, and their specific areas of expertise (e.g., robotic surgery, radiation therapy) are all critical factors in assessing the quality of care. Furthermore, the analysis must consider the availability of diagnostic facilities, such as MRI machines and biopsy capabilities, in the local area.

The adoption of telemedicine is another crucial aspect of modern healthcare. Telemedicine can improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas like Leakesville. The analysis should investigate whether local practices offer telehealth consultations for follow-up appointments, medication management, or even initial consultations. The availability of remote monitoring devices, which allow patients to track their health metrics at home, can also be beneficial for managing prostate cancer.

Mental health is an often-overlooked aspect of cancer care. A diagnosis of prostate cancer can have a significant emotional impact on patients, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The analysis must investigate the availability of mental health resources within the local healthcare system. Are there therapists, counselors, or psychiatrists who specialize in oncology or mental health? Do primary care practices offer integrated behavioral health services? The availability of support groups or online resources for prostate cancer patients is also a critical factor.

The analysis should identify standout practices in the Leakesville area. This might involve recognizing practices that have demonstrated a commitment to early detection, patient education, or innovative treatment approaches. This could include practices that have a high rate of prostate cancer screenings, offer comprehensive patient education materials, or participate in clinical trials. Identifying these practices can provide valuable insights into best practices and serve as a model for other healthcare providers in the area.

The analysis must also consider the affordability of care. The cost of prostate cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment can be substantial. The analysis should examine the acceptance of various insurance plans by local practices, the availability of financial assistance programs, and the overall cost of care in the area. The analysis must also consider the health literacy of the population. Providing patient education materials in multiple languages and at a suitable reading level is essential for ensuring that all patients can understand their diagnosis and treatment options.

In conclusion, assessing the quality of prostate cancer care in Leakesville, MS, requires a multifaceted approach. Examining physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and affordability are all crucial components of a comprehensive analysis. This information can empower patients to make informed decisions about their healthcare and identify areas where improvements are needed.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in Leakesville and surrounding areas, including the locations of physicians, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Use their mapping tools to gain a deeper understanding of healthcare access and availability in your community.