39193, Whitfield, Mississippi Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 39193, Whitfield, Mississippi is 95 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 20.78 percent of the residents in 39193 has some form of health insurance. 14.88 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 5.90 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 39193 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 10 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 79 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39193. An estimate of 44 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 56 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 10,906 health care providers accessible to residents in 39193, Whitfield, Mississippi.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 39193 and Primary Care Availability in Whitfield

This analysis examines the landscape of arthritis care within ZIP code 39193 and the broader context of primary care availability in Whitfield, aiming to provide an "Arthritis Score" assessment. This score is not a single, quantifiable number but rather a composite evaluation based on several factors crucial for effective arthritis management, including physician accessibility, quality of care, and supportive resources. The goal is to offer insights for individuals seeking arthritis treatment and to highlight areas for potential improvement within the local healthcare system.

ZIP code 39193, a specific geographic area, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities regarding arthritis care. The availability of rheumatologists, the specialists primarily responsible for diagnosing and treating arthritis, is a critical starting point. Physician-to-patient ratios are a key indicator. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of specialists, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and potentially less effective treatment outcomes. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility and potentially better patient outcomes. Investigating the number of board-certified rheumatologists practicing within the ZIP code, and the surrounding areas, is essential. Further research should determine the average patient load per rheumatologist, comparing this to national or regional averages to gauge relative accessibility.

Beyond specialist availability, the presence and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) are equally important. PCPs often serve as the first point of contact for patients experiencing arthritis symptoms. Their ability to accurately diagnose, initiate basic treatment, and effectively refer patients to rheumatologists is crucial. The analysis must assess the density of PCPs within ZIP code 39193, again looking at physician-to-patient ratios. Furthermore, it's important to evaluate the PCPs' familiarity with arthritis management, including their knowledge of current treatment guidelines and their willingness to collaborate with rheumatologists.

The evaluation of primary care availability in Whitfield, a broader geographical area, provides a crucial context for understanding the overall healthcare ecosystem. Whitfield's primary care infrastructure directly impacts the accessibility of arthritis care within 39193. If Whitfield faces a shortage of PCPs, residents of 39193 may experience difficulty accessing timely and appropriate care, potentially exacerbating the challenges of arthritis management. Analyzing the PCP-to-population ratio across Whitfield is therefore a key component of the Arthritis Score.

Standout practices within ZIP code 39193 and Whitfield deserve specific recognition. Identifying clinics or hospitals that demonstrate excellence in arthritis care is a priority. This involves examining factors such as the use of evidence-based treatment protocols, the availability of specialized services (e.g., physical therapy, occupational therapy), and patient satisfaction ratings. Practices that actively participate in clinical trials or research related to arthritis treatment can also be considered as standout examples, as they often demonstrate a commitment to innovation and improved patient outcomes. Gathering data on these practices, including their staffing, services offered, and patient outcomes, is crucial for a comprehensive assessment.

The adoption of telemedicine is increasingly relevant in healthcare, particularly for managing chronic conditions like arthritis. Telemedicine can improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. The Arthritis Score analysis must evaluate the extent to which doctors in ZIP code 39193 and Whitfield utilize telemedicine for arthritis consultations, follow-up appointments, and patient education. Examining the types of telemedicine platforms used, the frequency of their use, and patient satisfaction with these services is essential. Practices that embrace telemedicine can potentially enhance patient access and convenience, contributing to a higher Arthritis Score.

Mental health resources are another critical element of arthritis care. Arthritis can have a significant impact on mental well-being, leading to depression, anxiety, and other psychological challenges. The Arthritis Score analysis must assess the availability of mental health services for arthritis patients within ZIP code 39193 and Whitfield. This includes evaluating the presence of mental health professionals (e.g., psychologists, psychiatrists, therapists) who specialize in working with individuals with chronic pain or disabilities. Additionally, it is important to assess the integration of mental health services into arthritis care, such as the availability of mental health screenings and referrals. The presence of support groups, educational programs, and other resources for patients and their families should also be considered.

Furthermore, the analysis must consider the availability of ancillary services crucial for effective arthritis management. This includes physical therapy and occupational therapy services. The presence of these services within the ZIP code and Whitfield, along with their accessibility and quality, directly impacts the Arthritis Score. Assessing the availability of these services, including the number of therapists, the types of therapies offered, and the wait times for appointments, is vital.

In addition to these factors, the Arthritis Score analysis should consider the cost of care. The affordability of arthritis treatment, including the cost of physician visits, medications, and therapies, can significantly impact patient access and adherence to treatment plans. Analyzing the average cost of care within ZIP code 39193 and Whitfield, and comparing it to regional or national averages, provides valuable insights. This analysis should also assess the availability of financial assistance programs and resources for patients who struggle to afford their care.

Finally, the analysis should consider patient education and empowerment. Patients who are well-informed about their condition and treatment options are more likely to actively participate in their care and achieve better outcomes. The Arthritis Score analysis must evaluate the availability of patient education resources, such as educational materials, support groups, and online resources. Assessing the extent to which healthcare providers actively engage in patient education and empower patients to manage their condition is crucial.

This Arthritis Score analysis, encompassing these factors, provides a comprehensive evaluation of the arthritis care landscape in ZIP code 39193 and Whitfield. It highlights areas of strength and weakness, informing patients, providers, and policymakers about the quality and accessibility of care. The ultimate goal is to improve the lives of individuals living with arthritis by promoting better healthcare outcomes.

For a visual representation of this data, including physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and demographic information, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome.