39562, Moss Point, Mississippi Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 39562, Moss Point, Mississippi is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.67 percent of the residents in 39562 has some form of health insurance. 38.99 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.51 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 39562 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,691 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39562. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,220 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,673 health care providers accessible to residents in 39562, Moss Point, Mississippi.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Moss Point, MS (ZIP Code 39562)

This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of prostate cancer care within ZIP code 39562 (Moss Point, Mississippi), focusing on primary care availability, physician resources, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support, ultimately culminating in a "Prostate Cancer Score" assessment. This score is not a definitive medical judgment, but rather a reflection of the local healthcare landscape’s capacity to address prostate cancer concerns.

The foundation of effective prostate cancer care rests on accessible and robust primary care. Moss Point's primary care availability, as assessed through public data and local healthcare directories, appears moderate. While several family medicine and internal medicine practices operate within the area, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. Nationally, the recommended ratio is approximately one primary care physician per 1,500 patients. Determining the precise ratio for Moss Point requires detailed data analysis, but preliminary research suggests that the area may face a shortage, potentially impacting timely access to initial screenings and referrals. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and a heavier burden on existing providers.

The presence of specialists is crucial. While primary care physicians often handle initial screenings and patient education, the management of prostate cancer frequently necessitates the expertise of urologists. The availability of urologists within the immediate Moss Point area is a key consideration. Does the area have a dedicated urology practice? Or do patients need to travel to nearby cities like Biloxi or Pascagoula for specialized care? Travel time and accessibility become significant barriers for patients, especially those with mobility limitations or limited transportation options. The proximity of specialized oncology services, including radiation oncology and medical oncology, is also a factor. These services are essential for comprehensive cancer treatment.

Standout practices within Moss Point contribute to the overall quality of care. Identifying practices known for their proactive approach to prostate cancer screening, their commitment to patient education, and their utilization of advanced diagnostic and treatment modalities is vital. Are there practices that consistently implement the latest guidelines for prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing and digital rectal exams? Do they offer patient support groups or educational resources? Positive indicators include practices that are actively involved in community outreach, promoting awareness about prostate cancer and the importance of early detection.

Telemedicine adoption is a game-changer, particularly for rural communities. The ability to conduct virtual consultations with primary care physicians and specialists can significantly improve access to care. Telemedicine can reduce the need for travel, making it easier for patients to receive timely advice, follow-up appointments, and medication management. Assessing the telemedicine capabilities of local practices, including their use of secure video conferencing platforms and remote monitoring technologies, is essential. Does the area have a well-developed telemedicine infrastructure, or is its adoption still in its infancy?

The mental health aspect is often overlooked but is incredibly important. A prostate cancer diagnosis can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. The availability of mental health resources, including therapists, counselors, and support groups, is a critical component of comprehensive care. Do local practices offer mental health services or have established referral networks? Are there support groups specifically for prostate cancer patients and their families? The integration of mental health services into the care plan can significantly improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Moss Point (ZIP code 39562) is a composite of the factors discussed above. It is not a single numerical value but rather a qualitative assessment. Considering the moderate primary care availability, the potential challenges in physician-to-patient ratios, the need to investigate urology and oncology specialist access, the importance of identifying standout practices, the need for telemedicine infrastructure, and the significance of mental health resources, the overall score for Moss Point, MS, is assessed as **moderate**. This suggests that while care is available, improvements are needed to enhance accessibility, address potential shortages, and ensure comprehensive support for prostate cancer patients.

This score emphasizes the need for a multi-faceted approach to improving prostate cancer care in Moss Point. This includes efforts to recruit and retain primary care physicians and specialists, promote telemedicine adoption, expand mental health services, and raise awareness about prostate cancer screening and treatment options.

For a more detailed, interactive analysis of healthcare resources in Moss Point and surrounding areas, including the location of healthcare providers, the availability of specialized services, and the demographics of the patient population, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers dynamic visualization tools that can help you gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape and identify areas for improvement.