39470, Poplarville, Mississippi Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 39470, Poplarville, Mississippi is 9 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.36 percent of the residents in 39470 has some form of health insurance. 42.37 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.61 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 39470 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,654 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39470. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,201 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 482 health care providers accessible to residents in 39470, Poplarville, Mississippi.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Poplarville, MS (ZIP Code 39470)

Analyzing the landscape of arthritis care and primary care availability in Poplarville, Mississippi (ZIP code 39470) requires a multi-faceted approach. An "Arthritis Score," though not a formally recognized metric, can be constructed by evaluating several key factors: physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized rheumatology services, the adoption of telemedicine, integration with mental health resources, and overall accessibility of primary care. This analysis aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem for individuals managing arthritis and seeking general medical care.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical starting point. Data from various sources, including the U.S. Census Bureau and the Mississippi State Department of Health, suggests that rural areas like Poplarville often face challenges in physician access. Determining the precise ratio for primary care physicians and, critically, rheumatologists within the 39470 ZIP code requires diligent research. A low ratio, indicative of fewer doctors per capita, will negatively impact the "Arthritis Score." This can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment.

The presence of specialized rheumatology services is another essential component. Ideally, Poplarville would have at least one, if not multiple, rheumatologists practicing within the ZIP code or in close proximity. The absence of a rheumatologist necessitates travel to larger cities like Hattiesburg or New Orleans, which can be a significant burden for individuals with arthritis, particularly those experiencing mobility limitations or chronic pain. The "Arthritis Score" will be significantly impacted by the availability of these specialists.

Telemedicine adoption offers a potential mitigating factor to the challenges of physician access. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with doctors remotely, reducing the need for in-person visits for certain types of appointments, such as follow-ups or medication management. The extent to which primary care physicians and specialists in Poplarville utilize telemedicine platforms is crucial. A high rate of telemedicine adoption would positively influence the "Arthritis Score," indicating a more accessible and convenient healthcare system.

The integration of mental health resources is another critical aspect of the analysis. Arthritis is a chronic condition that can significantly impact mental well-being. Depression, anxiety, and chronic pain often co-occur. Ideally, primary care practices and rheumatology clinics in Poplarville would have established referral pathways to mental health professionals, such as psychologists, psychiatrists, and therapists. The availability of these resources, and their integration with arthritis care, would enhance the "Arthritis Score."

Primary care availability is the foundation of the healthcare system. The number of primary care physicians, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants practicing within the 39470 ZIP code directly impacts the accessibility of care. Factors such as clinic hours, appointment availability, and insurance acceptance also play a significant role. A well-functioning primary care system, with readily accessible appointments and comprehensive services, will contribute positively to the "Arthritis Score."

Identifying standout practices within Poplarville is also important. Some practices may excel in providing arthritis care, demonstrating a commitment to patient education, support groups, and innovative treatment approaches. These practices could be identified through patient reviews, online resources, and referrals from other healthcare providers. Highlighting these practices can help patients find the best possible care within the local community.

A comprehensive analysis of the "Arthritis Score" would involve gathering data from various sources, including physician directories, insurance provider databases, and patient feedback. This data would be used to create a weighted score, with each factor contributing to the overall assessment. For instance, the physician-to-patient ratio could be weighted heavily, reflecting its fundamental importance. The availability of rheumatology services would also receive a significant weight. Telemedicine adoption, mental health integration, and the presence of standout practices would contribute positively to the score.

The challenges of providing adequate healthcare in a rural area like Poplarville are undeniable. Limited resources, geographic isolation, and socioeconomic factors can all pose barriers to access. However, by assessing the current state of healthcare delivery and identifying areas for improvement, it is possible to enhance the quality of life for individuals with arthritis.

The "Arthritis Score" is a dynamic measure that should be continuously monitored and updated. As healthcare practices evolve and new technologies emerge, the score should be adjusted to reflect these changes. Regular assessments can help identify trends, track progress, and ensure that the healthcare system is meeting the needs of the community.

The goal of this analysis is to provide a clear and concise overview of the arthritis care landscape in Poplarville, MS (ZIP code 39470). By evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, the availability of specialists, telemedicine adoption, mental health integration, and primary care accessibility, we can gain a better understanding of the challenges and opportunities for improving healthcare in this community.

For a visual representation of this data, including the geographic distribution of healthcare providers, patient demographics, and other relevant information, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps.