39170, Terry, Mississippi Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 39170, Terry, Mississippi is 97 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.47 percent of the residents in 39170 has some form of health insurance. 36.60 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.46 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 39170 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,920 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 58 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39170. An estimate of 21 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,888 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,747 health care providers accessible to residents in 39170, Terry, Mississippi.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Terry, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39170)

Analyzing healthcare access and quality for individuals managing arthritis in Terry, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39170) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis, termed an "Arthritis Score," considers several critical factors, including physician availability, practice quality, technological integration, and the presence of supportive mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare landscape for arthritis patients, offering insights into where individuals can find the best possible care.

The foundation of any Arthritis Score lies in physician-to-patient ratios. In Terry, primary care physicians (PCPs) are the initial point of contact for many individuals experiencing joint pain and other arthritis symptoms. While the exact PCP-to-population ratio fluctuates, a preliminary assessment reveals potential challenges. The ratio likely falls below the national average, indicating a possible shortage of readily accessible primary care providers. This scarcity can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses and treatments. The limited availability of specialists, such as rheumatologists, exacerbates this issue. Patients may need to travel significant distances to see a specialist, adding to the burden of managing their condition.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of care offered by existing practices is paramount. Evaluating this involves assessing several key metrics. The availability of comprehensive diagnostic tools, such as advanced imaging (MRI, X-ray), is crucial for accurate diagnosis and monitoring of arthritis progression. Practices that readily offer these services within their facilities or through established partnerships with local imaging centers receive higher scores. Similarly, the adoption of evidence-based treatment protocols, including the use of disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and biologics when appropriate, is a significant indicator of quality. Practices adhering to national guidelines for arthritis management are prioritized.

Furthermore, the availability of physical therapy and occupational therapy services is critical. These therapies play a vital role in pain management, improving mobility, and enhancing the overall quality of life for arthritis patients. Practices with on-site or readily accessible therapy services are given a higher score. The integration of patient education programs, support groups, and access to educational materials also contributes positively to the overall score.

Technological integration is another vital component of the Arthritis Score. Telemedicine adoption is particularly important in rural areas like Terry. Practices offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals receive higher scores. Telemedicine can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. It allows for more frequent check-ins, medication management, and timely interventions. Practices utilizing electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate seamless communication between different healthcare providers are also highly valued.

The often-overlooked aspect of arthritis management is mental health. Chronic pain and the limitations imposed by arthritis can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to depression, anxiety, and social isolation. Practices that recognize the importance of mental health and offer or facilitate access to mental health resources receive a higher score. This includes on-site counseling services, referrals to mental health professionals, and integration of mental health screening into routine patient care. The availability of support groups and peer-to-peer networks is also a positive factor.

Identifying standout practices in Terry requires a deeper dive into individual practice characteristics. While a comprehensive review would necessitate direct contact with each practice, certain indicators can point towards excellence. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, as evidenced by positive patient reviews and testimonials, are likely to rank higher. Practices actively involved in community outreach and education initiatives also deserve recognition. The presence of board-certified specialists and a team of experienced healthcare professionals is another critical factor.

In the absence of a formal, comprehensive survey, a preliminary assessment suggests that access to specialized rheumatology care in Terry may be limited, potentially requiring patients to seek care in nearby cities like Jackson. This underscores the importance of strong primary care practices that can effectively manage arthritis symptoms and provide timely referrals to specialists when necessary. The success of arthritis management often hinges on a collaborative approach, involving PCPs, specialists, therapists, and mental health professionals.

The Arthritis Score for Terry, Mississippi, reflects a healthcare landscape with both strengths and weaknesses. While challenges exist in terms of physician availability and access to specialized care, opportunities exist to improve patient outcomes through the adoption of technology, integration of mental health services, and a focus on patient-centered care. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the complexities of arthritis management in this specific geographic area.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Terry, Mississippi, and visualize the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome can provide a detailed, interactive mapping experience, helping you identify healthcare providers, assess accessibility, and gain valuable insights into the local healthcare ecosystem.