39759, Starkville, Mississippi Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 39759, Starkville, Mississippi is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.13 percent of the residents in 39759 has some form of health insurance. 24.24 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.33 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 39759 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 8,782 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 25 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39759. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,890 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 738 health care providers accessible to residents in 39759, Starkville, Mississippi.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Starkville, MS (ZIP Code 39759)

This analysis provides an “Arthritis Score” assessment for the availability and quality of healthcare resources relevant to individuals managing arthritis within Starkville, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39759). The score considers various factors, including physician density, primary care access, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health support, all crucial for comprehensive arthritis care. This assessment aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare landscape, helping residents navigate their healthcare journey.

The foundation of effective arthritis management lies in strong primary care. Starkville, being a relatively small city, presents both opportunities and challenges in this regard. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. While precise figures fluctuate, publicly available data suggests a potentially strained primary care system. This means that residents may experience longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced access to specialized care. The Arthritis Score will be negatively impacted by a lower physician-to-patient ratio, reflecting a potential bottleneck in accessing initial diagnoses, referrals, and ongoing management.

Primary care physicians (PCPs) play a vital role in the early detection and management of arthritis. They are often the first point of contact, conducting initial assessments, ordering relevant diagnostic tests, and initiating treatment plans. In Starkville, the availability of PCPs, their experience with musculoskeletal conditions, and their willingness to collaborate with specialists (like rheumatologists) significantly impact the Arthritis Score. The more accessible and experienced the primary care network, the higher the score.

Specialist availability, particularly rheumatologists, is another crucial factor. Rheumatologists are medical doctors who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of arthritis and other rheumatic diseases. The presence of a rheumatologist within Starkville, or in close proximity, is essential for providing specialized care. A lack of local rheumatologists necessitates travel to larger cities, which can create significant burdens for patients, especially those with mobility limitations. The Arthritis Score will reflect the presence or absence of these specialists and the ease of access to their services.

Beyond physician density, the quality of care is paramount. This includes the adoption of evidence-based treatment protocols, the availability of physical therapy and occupational therapy services, and the integration of patient education programs. Practices that prioritize patient education, offering resources on disease management, lifestyle modifications, and medication adherence, will receive higher marks in the Arthritis Score. The presence of support groups and community resources also contributes positively.

Telemedicine is rapidly transforming healthcare delivery, particularly for chronic conditions like arthritis. Its adoption in Starkville is a significant factor in this analysis. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care, especially for those in rural areas or with mobility issues. Practices that offer telemedicine consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and online patient portals will be viewed favorably, boosting the Arthritis Score.

The impact of arthritis extends beyond the physical realm. Chronic pain, disability, and the emotional toll of managing a long-term illness can significantly affect mental health. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is therefore a crucial component of comprehensive arthritis care. Practices that integrate mental health services, either directly or through referrals, will receive higher scores. The Arthritis Score will reflect the accessibility of mental health support within the community.

Specific practices in Starkville will be evaluated based on their performance across these criteria. While a comprehensive review of every practice is beyond the scope of this analysis, those demonstrating a commitment to patient-centered care, adopting innovative technologies, and prioritizing access to specialists will be recognized. The availability of detailed patient reviews and ratings will also be considered, providing insights into patient experiences and satisfaction levels.

The Arthritis Score for Starkville, MS (39759) is ultimately a reflection of the community's capacity to provide comprehensive, accessible, and patient-centered care for individuals living with arthritis. It considers the interplay of physician availability, specialist access, telemedicine adoption, mental health support, and the overall quality of care. The score is not a static measure; it can change over time as healthcare providers adapt to evolving needs and embrace new technologies.

The analysis acknowledges that access to healthcare is a dynamic and complex issue. The data used to generate the Arthritis Score is based on publicly available information and may not always reflect the most current situation. Therefore, this analysis should be considered as a starting point for understanding the healthcare landscape in Starkville, not as a definitive judgment. The goal is to empower residents with information to make informed decisions about their healthcare.

The availability of physical therapy and occupational therapy services is another important consideration. These therapies are often crucial for managing pain, improving mobility, and maintaining function in individuals with arthritis. Practices that offer these services, or have strong referral networks to them, will receive positive ratings. The Arthritis Score will reflect the availability and accessibility of these essential therapies.

Furthermore, the analysis considers the integration of patient education programs. These programs provide valuable information about arthritis, its management, and lifestyle modifications that can help patients live more fulfilling lives. Practices that offer educational materials, support groups, or access to online resources will be viewed favorably. The Arthritis Score will reflect the commitment of local healthcare providers to patient education.

In conclusion, the Arthritis Score for Starkville, MS (39759) reflects the multifaceted nature of arthritis care. It assesses the availability of physicians, the accessibility of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the overall quality of care. This analysis provides a valuable framework for understanding the healthcare landscape and empowering residents to navigate their healthcare journey.

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