39455, Lumberton, Mississippi Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 39455, Lumberton, Mississippi is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 80.51 percent of the residents in 39455 has some form of health insurance. 43.17 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 48.24 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 39455 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,227 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39455. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,500 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 515 health care providers accessible to residents in 39455, Lumberton, Mississippi.

**Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Lumberton, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39455)**

Analyzing the landscape of prostate cancer care in Lumberton, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39455) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers factors ranging from physician availability and practice quality to the integration of technology and the availability of supporting mental health resources. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the resources available to men in Lumberton facing a prostate cancer diagnosis or seeking preventative care.

The foundation of any healthcare system is the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Lumberton, primary care access is a critical starting point. A low physician-to-patient ratio suggests potential challenges. Ideally, a robust PCP network facilitates early detection through regular screenings, provides crucial referrals to specialists, and offers ongoing management of chronic conditions. A limited number of PCPs can lead to delayed diagnoses, increased wait times, and potentially poorer health outcomes. Assessing the PCP-to-population ratio in Lumberton is the first step. This involves examining the number of actively practicing PCPs within the ZIP code and comparing it to the total population, factoring in the age demographics of the male population, as men over 50 are at a higher risk of prostate cancer.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care matters. Are the PCPs in Lumberton equipped to provide comprehensive prostate cancer screening and initial management? This involves evaluating their adherence to established guidelines, such as those from the American Urological Association (AUA) and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN). Do they routinely offer prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests and digital rectal exams (DREs) as appropriate? Do they have established referral pathways to urologists and oncologists? The presence of electronic health records (EHRs) and the ability to share patient information seamlessly are also important indicators of a well-functioning primary care system.

Specialist care is vital. The availability of urologists and oncologists within or near Lumberton is paramount. A urologist is the specialist directly involved in diagnosing and treating prostate cancer. Oncologists are essential for managing the disease, particularly in advanced stages. The proximity of these specialists, the size of their practices, and their expertise are all critical factors. Are there urologists and oncologists practicing in Lumberton, or do patients need to travel to larger cities such as Hattiesburg or even further? Travel time and distance can significantly impact access to care, especially for patients undergoing frequent treatments or experiencing side effects.

The reputation of local practices is another consideration. Assessing patient reviews, if available, can provide insights into the quality of care, patient satisfaction, and the overall experience. Are there standout practices in Lumberton known for their expertise in prostate cancer care? Are they affiliated with larger healthcare systems that offer a broader range of services and resources? Identifying these practices can help patients make informed decisions about their care.

The adoption of telemedicine is increasingly important. Telemedicine offers the potential to improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas. Does Lumberton have telemedicine options for primary care visits, specialist consultations, and even mental health support? Telemedicine can be particularly valuable for follow-up appointments, medication management, and providing support to patients experiencing side effects from treatment. The availability of telemedicine can significantly reduce travel burdens and improve patient convenience.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are crucial. A prostate cancer diagnosis can have a significant emotional impact. Patients may experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, is a vital component of comprehensive care. Are there mental health services available in Lumberton? Are these services integrated into the healthcare system, making it easier for patients to access the support they need? The presence of support groups and educational resources can also play a crucial role in helping patients cope with their diagnosis and treatment.

Beyond the direct provision of medical care, the availability of supportive services is important. This includes access to patient navigators who can help patients navigate the healthcare system, understand their treatment options, and connect them with resources. Does Lumberton have patient navigators or other support services specifically for prostate cancer patients? The availability of financial assistance programs can also be critical, especially for patients who may be facing financial hardship due to their diagnosis and treatment.

The integration of technology is reshaping healthcare. The use of EHRs, patient portals, and other digital tools can improve communication between patients and providers, enhance care coordination, and provide patients with greater control over their health information. Are the practices in Lumberton using these technologies effectively? Do patients have access to online portals where they can view their medical records, schedule appointments, and communicate with their healthcare providers?

Finally, the overall healthcare infrastructure in Lumberton must be considered. This includes the presence of a hospital or medical center, the availability of diagnostic imaging services (such as MRI and CT scans), and the presence of a pharmacy. The availability of these resources is essential for providing comprehensive prostate cancer care.

In conclusion, assessing the prostate cancer care landscape in Lumberton, Mississippi, requires a holistic evaluation of physician availability, practice quality, technology adoption, and the availability of mental health and supportive resources. While this analysis provides a general overview, a more detailed assessment, incorporating specific data points and local knowledge, is necessary to provide a truly comprehensive Prostate Cancer Score for the community.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Lumberton and surrounding areas, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide valuable insights into physician locations, specialist availability, and access to healthcare resources.