39666, Summit, Mississippi Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 39666, Summit, Mississippi is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.96 percent of the residents in 39666 has some form of health insurance. 40.35 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.09 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 39666 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,521 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39666. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,802 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 875 health care providers accessible to residents in 39666, Summit, Mississippi.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Summit, MS (ZIP Code 39666) and Primary Care Landscape

This analysis provides an "Arthritis Score" perspective on the healthcare landscape within ZIP code 39666 (Summit, Mississippi), specifically focusing on primary care availability and related resources relevant to individuals managing arthritis. The “Arthritis Score” is a subjective assessment based on factors crucial for effective arthritis management, including access to care, specialist availability (indirectly through primary care), telemedicine adoption, and mental health support, all considered within the context of the community's resources.

Summit, Mississippi, a small town, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. The limited population density often translates to lower physician-to-patient ratios compared to urban centers. This scarcity can directly impact access to primary care physicians, the initial point of contact for arthritis diagnosis and management. A low physician-to-patient ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, suggests potential difficulties in securing timely appointments and consistent care. A higher ratio, conversely, would indicate greater access.

The availability of primary care physicians is the cornerstone of this assessment. Primary care physicians play a vital role in arthritis management. They can perform initial assessments, order necessary diagnostic tests, and provide ongoing care, including medication management and referrals to specialists like rheumatologists. The "Arthritis Score" will reflect the ease with which residents can access these essential primary care services. This includes evaluating the number of active primary care practices within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas, considering factors like practice size (number of physicians) and acceptance of new patients.

Standout practices within the region would be those demonstrating a commitment to comprehensive arthritis care. This includes practices that prioritize patient education, offer extended hours or weekend appointments, and actively participate in patient support programs. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to facilitate communication and care coordination are also highly valued. These features contribute positively to the “Arthritis Score” by improving patient experience and facilitating better disease management. Identifying these practices requires diligent research, including online reviews, practice websites, and potentially, direct inquiries to healthcare providers.

Telemedicine adoption is a critical factor in the “Arthritis Score.” Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, can significantly improve access to care, especially in rural areas like Summit. For arthritis patients, telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations with primary care physicians, medication management reviews, and even physical therapy sessions. Practices that actively embrace telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring capabilities, receive a higher score. This is especially relevant given the potential limitations in specialist availability in a smaller community.

Mental health resources are an essential component of the "Arthritis Score." Chronic pain, a hallmark of arthritis, can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychologists, psychiatrists, and counselors, is therefore crucial. Practices that integrate mental health services into their arthritis care, either through on-site providers or referral networks, receive a higher score. This demonstrates a holistic approach to patient care, recognizing the interconnectedness of physical and mental health. The presence of support groups and educational programs related to arthritis and mental health also significantly enhances the score.

The “Arthritis Score” will also take into account the availability of ancillary services. This includes access to physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other rehabilitation services. These services are vital for managing pain, improving mobility, and maintaining function in individuals with arthritis. The proximity of these services and their integration with primary care practices are key considerations. The availability of pharmacies with expertise in arthritis medications and patient education also contributes positively to the score.

Furthermore, the analysis will examine the local hospital's capabilities. The presence of a well-equipped hospital with diagnostic imaging services (X-rays, MRIs) and a strong emergency department is crucial for managing acute arthritis flares and other related complications. The hospital's commitment to patient education and support programs for arthritis patients also positively impacts the "Arthritis Score."

The overall "Arthritis Score" for Summit, MS (39666) will be a composite measure, reflecting the combined impact of all these factors. It will provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape for arthritis patients, highlighting strengths and weaknesses. The score will not be a numerical value but rather a qualitative assessment, offering insights into the accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of arthritis care in the community. The analysis will aim to provide a realistic picture, acknowledging the inherent challenges of providing healthcare in a rural setting while also recognizing the potential for innovation and improvement.

The success of the "Arthritis Score" depends on the availability of accurate and up-to-date information. This includes data on physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and ancillary services. Gathering this information requires a multi-faceted approach, including online research, direct contact with healthcare providers, and potentially, consultation with local community health organizations. The goal is to provide a comprehensive and reliable assessment that can inform patients, healthcare providers, and community stakeholders.

In conclusion, the “Arthritis Score” analysis for Summit, MS (39666) will provide a valuable perspective on the healthcare landscape for individuals managing arthritis. It will highlight the importance of primary care access, telemedicine adoption, mental health support, and other crucial factors. This information can empower patients to make informed decisions about their care and encourage healthcare providers to continuously improve their services.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Summit, Mississippi, including the location of primary care practices, specialists, and other relevant resources, we encourage you to explore the power of spatial data visualization. **Visit CartoChrome maps to discover the potential of mapping healthcare data and gain a deeper understanding of the resources available in your community.**