39747, Kilmichael, Mississippi Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 39747, Kilmichael, Mississippi is 12 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.32 percent of the residents in 39747 has some form of health insurance. 58.37 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.45 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 39747 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 237 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39747. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 552 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 93 health care providers accessible to residents in 39747, Kilmichael, Mississippi.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Kilmichael, MS (ZIP Code 39747)

Kilmichael, Mississippi, nestled within ZIP code 39747, presents a unique healthcare landscape. This analysis focuses on the availability and quality of primary care, specifically considering factors relevant to individuals managing arthritis. Our "Arthritis Score" considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial for comprehensive arthritis care.

The physician-to-patient ratio in 39747 is a critical starting point. Rural areas often face challenges in physician recruitment and retention, potentially leading to a scarcity of primary care physicians (PCPs). A low ratio, meaning a higher number of patients per physician, can translate into longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses or treatment adjustments for chronic conditions like arthritis. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) or the Mississippi State Department of Health should be consulted to obtain the most accurate physician-to-population ratio for this specific ZIP code. This ratio will be a foundational element in our Arthritis Score.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of available primary care practices is paramount. Identifying standout practices requires investigation. Factors to consider include the experience and specialization of the physicians, the availability of on-site diagnostic services (e.g., X-rays, bloodwork), and the practice's overall patient satisfaction ratings. Online reviews, patient testimonials, and practice websites can offer insights into these areas. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient education, offer comprehensive care plans, and actively collaborate with specialists (e.g., rheumatologists, physical therapists) would score higher in our assessment.

Telemedicine adoption is another significant factor. Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, can be particularly beneficial for arthritis patients. It allows for virtual consultations, medication management, and remote monitoring of symptoms, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits, especially for those with mobility limitations or who live in geographically isolated areas. Practices that offer telemedicine options, including video conferencing and secure messaging, would receive a favorable score. Furthermore, the accessibility of technology and internet connectivity within the community will influence the practical impact of telemedicine.

The importance of mental health resources cannot be overstated in the context of arthritis. Chronic pain and the limitations imposed by arthritis can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health services, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within the Kilmichael area is a crucial component of our Arthritis Score. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care plans or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals would be viewed more favorably. The presence of support groups or community resources specifically for individuals with arthritis would also contribute positively.

To determine the Arthritis Score, each of these factors – physician-to-patient ratio, quality of practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resource availability – would be weighted and scored individually. The overall score would then be a composite, reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the primary care landscape in 39747. A higher score would indicate a more favorable environment for arthritis patients, suggesting greater access to quality care and resources.

The analysis of physician-to-patient ratios involves a careful examination of available data. The absence of readily available information could negatively impact the score, as it would suggest a lack of transparency or a potential shortage of physicians. Conversely, a favorable ratio, indicating a sufficient number of PCPs relative to the population, would contribute positively.

The assessment of practice quality would involve a more nuanced approach. We would need to evaluate the credentials and experience of the physicians, the range of services offered, and the overall patient experience. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, including personalized treatment plans and active patient education, would be rated higher.

Telemedicine adoption would be evaluated based on the availability of virtual consultation options, the ease of use of the technology, and the practice's commitment to ensuring patient privacy and data security. Practices that have embraced telemedicine and made it readily accessible to their patients would receive a favorable score.

Finally, the availability of mental health resources would be assessed by examining the presence of mental health professionals in the area, the availability of support groups, and the practice's integration of mental health services into its care plans. Practices that recognize the importance of mental well-being and actively address the mental health needs of their patients would be rated higher.

In conclusion, the Arthritis Score for primary care availability in Kilmichael (39747) is a complex assessment. It requires a thorough investigation of various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resource availability. This analysis, while providing a framework, is dependent on the availability of reliable data. The resulting score will provide valuable insights into the healthcare landscape for individuals managing arthritis in this rural Mississippi community.

For a comprehensive visual representation of this healthcare landscape, including the location of practices, physician density, and resource availability, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping solutions that can transform complex data into easily understandable visuals.