38774, Shelby, Mississippi Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 38774, Shelby, Mississippi is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 77.69 percent of the residents in 38774 has some form of health insurance. 51.83 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 31.57 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 38774 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 378 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 38774. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 156 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 504 health care providers accessible to residents in 38774, Shelby, Mississippi.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 38774 and Primary Care in Shelby

Analyzing healthcare access and quality, particularly concerning asthma management, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis focuses on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) in Shelby, Mississippi, and specifically evaluates the resources available to asthma patients within ZIP code 38774. This assessment considers physician-to-patient ratios, identifies standout practices, explores telemedicine adoption, and examines the availability of mental health resources, crucial components of comprehensive asthma care.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a fundamental indicator of access. In Shelby, a rural area, the density of PCPs is likely lower than in urban centers. Determining the exact ratio requires access to the most current data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) or the Mississippi State Department of Health. A lower ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced access to preventative care and ongoing management for chronic conditions like asthma. This scarcity necessitates innovative solutions to ensure adequate care.

Evaluating specific medical practices within ZIP code 38774 and the surrounding Shelby area is critical. Identifying "standout practices" requires a review of several factors. This includes assessing the availability of board-certified physicians, the breadth of services offered (e.g., pulmonary function testing, allergy testing), and patient satisfaction scores. Practices with specialized asthma clinics, offering comprehensive asthma education programs, and employing certified asthma educators would score highly. Furthermore, practices utilizing evidence-based asthma management guidelines, such as those from the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP), would demonstrate a commitment to quality care.

Telemedicine adoption presents a significant opportunity to improve asthma care in rural areas like Shelby. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, potentially reducing the need for travel, especially beneficial for those with mobility issues or limited transportation options. For asthma patients, telemedicine can facilitate medication management, symptom monitoring, and patient education. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring tools, would receive a positive evaluation. The success of telemedicine hinges on factors like reliable internet access in the community and the willingness of both patients and physicians to utilize the technology.

The often-overlooked aspect of asthma management is the integration of mental health resources. Asthma, a chronic condition, can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being. Anxiety, depression, and stress are common among asthma sufferers, potentially exacerbating their symptoms and impacting their quality of life. Practices that recognize this connection and provide access to mental health services, either through in-house therapists or referrals to mental health professionals, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. The integration of mental health services is a crucial component of a comprehensive asthma management plan.

Specific examples of practices within ZIP code 38774 and the surrounding Shelby area need to be reviewed to provide a more detailed assessment. Without access to specific practice data, it is difficult to provide a definitive ranking. However, the following factors would be considered when evaluating each practice: the number of PCPs and pulmonologists, the availability of asthma-specific services, the use of electronic health records (EHRs) for asthma management, the presence of certified asthma educators, patient testimonials, and the integration of telemedicine and mental health services. Practices that excel in these areas would be recognized as leaders in asthma care.

Further, the availability of specialized resources, such as pulmonary rehabilitation programs, is essential for patients with severe asthma. These programs provide education and support to help patients manage their condition and improve their quality of life. The proximity of these resources to ZIP code 38774 is a crucial factor in determining access to care.

The overall "Asthma Score" for doctors in ZIP code 38774 and the primary care availability in Shelby would be a composite score based on the factors discussed above. A higher score would indicate better access to care, a greater emphasis on quality, and a more comprehensive approach to asthma management. The score would reflect the physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of specialized services, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and patient satisfaction.

The challenges of providing healthcare in rural areas are significant. Addressing these challenges requires a collaborative effort involving healthcare providers, community organizations, and policymakers. Strategies to improve asthma care in Shelby could include increasing the number of PCPs, expanding telemedicine capabilities, promoting asthma education programs, and improving access to mental health services.

This analysis highlights the complexities of evaluating healthcare access and quality. A comprehensive assessment requires a detailed examination of the resources available, the practices employed, and the outcomes achieved. The goal is to identify areas for improvement and to advocate for policies that support better asthma care for residents of Shelby and ZIP code 38774.

For a visual representation of healthcare resources in Shelby, including physician locations, service availability, and access to specialized care, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. Their platform allows for a detailed visualization of healthcare data, providing valuable insights for patients, providers, and policymakers.