38617, Coahoma, Mississippi Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 38617, Coahoma, Mississippi is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 78.06 percent of the residents in 38617 has some form of health insurance. 61.04 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 25.82 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 38617 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 193 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 38617. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 74 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 316 health care providers accessible to residents in 38617, Coahoma, Mississippi.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 38617 and Primary Care in Coahoma

Analyzing the healthcare landscape for asthma sufferers in Coahoma County, specifically focusing on ZIP code 38617, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will assess the availability and quality of primary care physicians, considering factors crucial for effective asthma management, including physician-to-patient ratios, innovative practices, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources. The ultimate goal is to provide a comprehensive "Asthma Score" assessment, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement within the local healthcare system.

The foundation of asthma care rests on accessible primary care. In Coahoma County, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnosis or treatment adjustments for asthma patients. The availability of primary care physicians within ZIP code 38617, and the surrounding areas, is therefore paramount. A thorough investigation would involve examining the number of practicing primary care physicians, their specializations (e.g., family medicine, internal medicine), and their patient load. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) can provide insights into physician supply, but local data collection through surveys or community outreach is essential for a truly accurate assessment.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of care provided by primary care physicians is crucial. This includes their experience and expertise in managing asthma, their adherence to evidence-based guidelines, and their ability to effectively communicate with patients. The "Asthma Score" would need to consider the physicians' training, certifications, and participation in continuing medical education related to respiratory illnesses. Patient satisfaction surveys and online reviews, while imperfect, can offer valuable insights into the patient experience and the perceived quality of care. This information can help identify standout practices that excel in asthma management.

Modern healthcare demands innovation, and telemedicine adoption is a key element of an effective asthma management strategy. Telemedicine offers several advantages for asthma patients, including remote monitoring of symptoms, virtual consultations, and medication management. Examining the extent to which primary care physicians in 38617 utilize telemedicine platforms is essential. Factors to consider include the types of telemedicine services offered (e.g., video calls, remote monitoring devices), the ease of access for patients, and the integration of telemedicine into the overall care plan. Practices that embrace telemedicine can potentially improve access to care, reduce the burden on patients, and facilitate more proactive asthma management.

Asthma is not merely a physical ailment; it often has significant mental health implications. Anxiety and depression are common comorbidities in asthma patients, and these conditions can exacerbate asthma symptoms and negatively impact quality of life. The "Asthma Score" must therefore assess the availability of mental health resources within the local healthcare system. This includes the presence of mental health professionals (e.g., psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists) within primary care practices or in the community, as well as the ease of access to these services. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health providers is crucial for providing comprehensive and holistic care.

Furthermore, the "Asthma Score" should consider the availability of asthma education and support programs. These programs can empower patients with the knowledge and skills they need to manage their condition effectively. This includes education on asthma triggers, medication use, proper inhaler technique, and self-monitoring. The presence of support groups, asthma educators, and community health workers can significantly improve patient outcomes.

The assessment would also delve into the accessibility of specialty care, such as pulmonologists and allergists. While primary care physicians are the cornerstone of asthma management, access to specialists is often necessary for complex cases or for patients who are not responding to standard treatments. The distance to specialists, wait times for appointments, and insurance coverage are all important factors to consider.

Another important factor is the availability of affordable medications. The "Asthma Score" would consider the cost of asthma medications, the availability of patient assistance programs, and the presence of a local pharmacy network that can provide timely access to medications. The cost of medications can be a significant barrier to care for many patients, and ensuring affordability is crucial for effective asthma management.

The "Asthma Score" analysis would be incomplete without considering the socioeconomic factors that influence asthma outcomes. Poverty, housing conditions, and environmental factors can all contribute to asthma exacerbations. The analysis would consider the prevalence of poverty in the area, the quality of housing, and the presence of environmental hazards, such as air pollution. Addressing these social determinants of health is essential for improving asthma outcomes in Coahoma County.

Ultimately, the "Asthma Score" for doctors in ZIP code 38617 and primary care availability in Coahoma would be a composite score, reflecting the various factors discussed above. This score would provide a snapshot of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system in terms of asthma management. It would also highlight areas where improvements are needed, such as increasing physician-to-patient ratios, expanding telemedicine adoption, and improving access to mental health resources. The score could be used to inform healthcare planning, resource allocation, and community outreach efforts.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Coahoma County, including the locations of primary care physicians, specialists, pharmacies, and other relevant resources, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a valuable tool for understanding the accessibility of healthcare services and identifying areas with the greatest needs.