39166, Silver City, Mississippi Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 39166, Silver City, Mississippi is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.20 percent of the residents in 39166 has some form of health insurance. 61.03 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 26.13 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 39166 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 203 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39166. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 62 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 203 health care providers accessible to residents in 39166, Silver City, Mississippi.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 39166 and Primary Care Availability in Silver City

Silver City, Mississippi, nestled within the 39166 ZIP code, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access, particularly concerning arthritis management. This analysis aims to provide an 'Arthritis Score' ranking for physicians in the area, evaluating primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. The goal is to offer a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare ecosystem for individuals managing arthritis and seeking accessible care.

The foundation of any arthritis care plan begins with robust primary care. In Silver City, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical determinant of the overall 'Arthritis Score'. A low PCP-to-population ratio can create significant barriers to timely diagnosis, referral to specialists (like rheumatologists), and ongoing management. The specific physician-to-patient ratio within 39166 needs to be assessed. Publicly available data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) or state health departments can provide insights into the number of PCPs actively practicing within the ZIP code and the estimated population they serve. A higher ratio, indicating more patients per physician, suggests potential delays in accessing care, longer wait times for appointments, and potentially less individualized attention.

Beyond raw numbers, the distribution of primary care practices within Silver City matters. Are practices clustered in specific areas, leaving certain neighborhoods underserved? Are there practices accepting new patients, or are they at capacity? These factors influence the accessibility of care for individuals with arthritis, who often require frequent check-ups and ongoing management. The presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or other safety-net providers can be a positive indicator, as these facilities often prioritize access for underserved populations.

The quality of primary care is equally crucial. The 'Arthritis Score' should consider the practices' commitment to evidence-based medicine, their use of electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient data management, and their willingness to collaborate with specialists. Practices that demonstrate a proactive approach to arthritis management, such as screening for risk factors, educating patients about the disease, and providing referrals to physical therapy or other supportive services, will score higher. The ability of a PCP to effectively manage comorbidities, which are common in arthritis patients, is also a significant factor.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical element of the 'Arthritis Score'. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals can significantly improve access to care, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering both video and phone consultations, will receive a higher ranking. This includes assessing the ease of use of the telemedicine platform, the availability of technical support, and the integration of telemedicine into the practice's overall workflow.

The integration of mental health resources is an often-overlooked but essential component of arthritis care. Chronic pain and the limitations imposed by arthritis can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to depression, anxiety, and social isolation. Practices that recognize this connection and offer access to mental health services, either through in-house providers or through referrals to external therapists or psychiatrists, will receive a higher score. This includes assessing whether the practice screens for mental health issues, educates patients about the link between arthritis and mental health, and facilitates access to appropriate support services. The availability of support groups, both in-person and online, can also contribute to a higher 'Arthritis Score'.

Identifying standout practices within 39166 requires a deeper dive into individual physician profiles and practice characteristics. This involves reviewing online patient reviews, assessing the practice's website for information about its services and approach to arthritis care, and potentially conducting interviews with patients. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, offer a comprehensive range of services, and actively engage in patient education will be considered high-performing. The presence of specialists, such as rheumatologists, within or near the ZIP code is also a significant advantage, as it streamlines the referral process and provides access to specialized expertise.

Assessing the 'Arthritis Score' also requires considering the broader healthcare landscape in Silver City. This includes evaluating the availability of physical therapy services, occupational therapy, and other supportive services that are essential for managing arthritis. The presence of community resources, such as support groups, educational programs, and exercise classes, can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with arthritis. Collaboration between healthcare providers and community organizations is a key indicator of a supportive healthcare ecosystem.

Furthermore, the 'Arthritis Score' should incorporate an assessment of insurance coverage and affordability. The accessibility of care is significantly impacted by the ability of patients to afford it. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans, offer payment plans, or participate in programs that provide financial assistance to patients will receive a higher score. Transparency regarding costs and billing practices is also a crucial factor.

In conclusion, the 'Arthritis Score' for doctors in ZIP Code 39166 and primary care availability in Silver City is determined by a complex interplay of factors. These include the physician-to-patient ratio, the distribution and quality of primary care practices, telemedicine adoption, the integration of mental health resources, the availability of supportive services, and the affordability of care. A comprehensive assessment requires a multi-faceted approach, considering both quantitative data and qualitative factors.

To visualize and analyze this complex data, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful platform for visualizing healthcare data, enabling you to identify areas with high and low access to care, pinpoint the location of healthcare providers, and analyze the distribution of resources within Silver City. Explore the power of CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape and make informed decisions about your health.