39079, Goodman, Mississippi Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 39079, Goodman, Mississippi is 8 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.34 percent of the residents in 39079 has some form of health insurance. 42.62 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 47.78 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 39079 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 514 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39079. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 188 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 256 health care providers accessible to residents in 39079, Goodman, Mississippi.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Goodman, MS (ZIP Code 39079)

This analysis delves into the landscape of arthritis care within ZIP code 39079, focusing on the town of Goodman, Mississippi. We assess the availability and quality of primary care, considering its crucial role in the initial diagnosis and management of arthritis. Furthermore, we explore factors influencing access to specialized rheumatological care, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, all critical elements in providing comprehensive arthritis treatment. The goal is to provide an "Arthritis Score" analysis, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare infrastructure in this specific area.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of healthcare access. In Goodman, and the surrounding ZIP code, this ratio is likely a significant factor impacting the "Arthritis Score." Rural areas often face challenges in attracting and retaining physicians, leading to a lower number of doctors per capita. This can translate into longer wait times for appointments, limited access to specialists, and increased strain on existing primary care providers. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is particularly important, as they often serve as the first point of contact for patients experiencing arthritis symptoms. Their ability to accurately diagnose, initiate treatment, and refer patients to rheumatologists is crucial.

Assessing the primary care availability in Goodman requires an examination of the local clinics and practices. The presence of a well-staffed and accessible primary care network is a positive indicator. Factors such as the number of PCPs accepting new patients, the range of services offered (e.g., on-site lab testing, X-ray facilities), and the clinic's hours of operation all contribute to the overall accessibility. The quality of care is also important. This includes the PCPs' experience and expertise in managing arthritis, their use of evidence-based guidelines, and their commitment to patient education and shared decision-making.

Identifying standout practices within the area is essential for understanding the best-available care. These practices might be characterized by their focus on patient-centered care, their use of innovative technologies, or their commitment to community outreach. They may have established referral pathways to rheumatologists, offer educational programs for patients, or actively participate in research and quality improvement initiatives. These practices serve as models for others, demonstrating best practices in arthritis care.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor influencing the "Arthritis Score." Telemedicine offers the potential to overcome geographical barriers and improve access to specialized care. In a rural area like Goodman, where access to rheumatologists may be limited, telemedicine can provide patients with remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and access to educational resources. The adoption rate of telemedicine among local healthcare providers, the types of services offered remotely, and the availability of necessary technology (e.g., reliable internet access) all contribute to the overall score.

The integration of mental health resources is becoming increasingly important in arthritis care. Chronic pain and the limitations imposed by arthritis can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to depression, anxiety, and social isolation. The availability of mental health services, such as counseling, therapy, and support groups, is therefore a critical component of comprehensive arthritis care. The degree to which local healthcare providers integrate mental health services into their practice, whether through in-house therapists, referrals to mental health professionals, or collaborations with community organizations, will significantly impact the "Arthritis Score."

Furthermore, the availability of physical therapy and occupational therapy services is vital. These therapies play a crucial role in managing pain, improving function, and preventing disability in individuals with arthritis. The presence of qualified therapists, the range of services offered, and the accessibility of these services (e.g., convenient location, flexible scheduling) are all important considerations. The availability of these resources is often directly linked to the quality of life for arthritis patients.

The "Arthritis Score" for Goodman, MS (ZIP code 39079) is therefore a composite measure, reflecting the interplay of several factors. These include the physician-to-patient ratio, the availability and quality of primary care, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the availability of physical and occupational therapy services. A higher score would indicate better access to care, a more comprehensive approach to treatment, and a greater likelihood of positive patient outcomes. Conversely, a lower score would highlight areas where improvements are needed to enhance the quality of arthritis care in the community.

This analysis highlights the complexities of assessing healthcare access in a rural setting. Addressing the challenges of physician shortages, limited access to specialists, and the need for integrated care requires a multi-faceted approach. This might involve attracting and retaining healthcare professionals, promoting the adoption of telemedicine, expanding access to mental health services, and fostering collaborations between healthcare providers and community organizations. The ultimate goal is to improve the quality of life for individuals living with arthritis in Goodman and the surrounding areas.

CartoChrome Maps offers powerful data visualization tools to further explore and understand the healthcare landscape in Goodman, MS (ZIP code 39079). By visualizing data on physician locations, patient demographics, and healthcare resource availability, CartoChrome Maps can provide a deeper understanding of the factors influencing the "Arthritis Score" and help identify areas for improvement. Explore the possibilities and visualize the data with CartoChrome Maps.