38655, Oxford, Mississippi Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 38655, Oxford, Mississippi is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.40 percent of the residents in 38655 has some form of health insurance. 24.66 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.77 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 38655 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 9,153 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 38655. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,910 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,571 health care providers accessible to residents in 38655, Oxford, Mississippi.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Oxford, MS (ZIP Code 38655)

This analysis delves into the accessibility and quality of arthritis care within Oxford, Mississippi, specifically focusing on the 38655 ZIP code. We will evaluate physician availability, the presence of specialized practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, ultimately providing an "Arthritis Score" assessment. This score, though not a numerical value, reflects the overall landscape for individuals seeking arthritis treatment in this area.

The foundation of any good healthcare system rests on adequate physician-to-patient ratios. In Oxford, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) significantly impacts arthritis care. PCPs often serve as the initial point of contact, providing diagnoses, referrals, and ongoing management for many arthritis conditions. A limited number of PCPs can lead to longer wait times for appointments, hindering timely diagnosis and treatment. The analysis reveals a moderate PCP-to-patient ratio in Oxford. While not critically deficient, it necessitates careful consideration of appointment scheduling and efficient referral pathways.

The presence of rheumatologists is crucial for specialized arthritis care. These physicians possess in-depth knowledge of various arthritis types and treatment modalities. The availability of rheumatologists in or near the 38655 ZIP code is a key determinant of the "Arthritis Score." The analysis indicates a limited number of rheumatologists directly serving the Oxford area. This necessitates a review of referral practices and the potential for travel to access specialized care. The distance and time required for appointments can significantly affect patient compliance and overall health outcomes.

Several primary care practices in Oxford stand out for their patient-centered approach and commitment to comprehensive care. These practices often demonstrate a proactive approach to arthritis management, including early screening, patient education, and coordinated care with specialists. While specific practice names are withheld to protect privacy, the analysis identifies several practices that prioritize patient communication, offer extended hours, and actively participate in community health initiatives. These practices contribute positively to the "Arthritis Score" by improving access to care and fostering a supportive environment for patients.

Telemedicine has become an increasingly important tool in healthcare, particularly for managing chronic conditions like arthritis. Telemedicine offers several advantages, including reduced travel time, increased access to specialists, and improved patient convenience. The adoption of telemedicine by healthcare providers in Oxford is a critical factor in the "Arthritis Score." The analysis indicates a growing trend toward telemedicine adoption, with several practices offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring capabilities. However, the extent of telemedicine integration varies among practices, and further expansion is necessary to maximize its benefits.

Arthritis often presents with significant mental health challenges. Chronic pain, disability, and the limitations imposed by the disease can lead to depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. The integration of mental health resources within arthritis care is therefore essential. The "Arthritis Score" considers the availability of mental health services, including therapists, counselors, and support groups, within the Oxford healthcare system. The analysis reveals a moderate level of integration, with some practices offering in-house mental health services or readily available referral pathways. However, further collaboration between rheumatologists, PCPs, and mental health professionals is needed to provide comprehensive care.

The overall "Arthritis Score" for Oxford, MS (38655) is moderate. While the community has several positive attributes, including dedicated primary care practices and increasing telemedicine adoption, several areas require improvement. The limited number of rheumatologists and the need for greater integration of mental health resources are key areas for focus. Improving physician-to-patient ratios, expanding telemedicine capabilities, and enhancing collaboration between healthcare providers will significantly improve the "Arthritis Score" and the quality of life for individuals living with arthritis in Oxford.

The availability of comprehensive and accessible healthcare data is crucial for informed decision-making and resource allocation. The analysis highlights the importance of visualizing healthcare data to identify areas for improvement and track progress over time. The ability to map physician locations, patient demographics, and healthcare resource availability can provide valuable insights for healthcare providers, policymakers, and patients.

For a detailed visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Oxford, including physician locations, access to specialists, and healthcare resource availability, explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful tool for understanding the complexities of healthcare access and identifying opportunities to improve arthritis care in the Oxford community.