38869, Sherman, Mississippi Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 38869, Sherman, Mississippi is 82 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.46 percent of the residents in 38869 has some form of health insurance. 45.14 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.13 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 38869 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 47 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 38869. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 84 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 749 health care providers accessible to residents in 38869, Sherman, Mississippi.

Asthma, a chronic respiratory disease, significantly impacts quality of life, particularly in vulnerable populations. Evaluating healthcare access and quality for asthma management is crucial, especially within a specific geographic area. This analysis focuses on ‘doctors in ZIP Code 38869’ and ‘primary care availability in Sherman, Mississippi,’ assessing key factors influencing asthma care, including physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape, ultimately informing patient choices and highlighting areas for improvement.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a fundamental indicator of access to care. ZIP Code 38869, which encompasses Sherman, Mississippi, likely experiences a rural healthcare environment. This often translates to a lower density of physicians compared to urban areas. Assessing the specific ratio requires data on the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) and pulmonologists practicing within the zip code, alongside the total population. A lower ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to specialized care, and potentially poorer asthma control. Publicly available data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and the Mississippi State Department of Health could be used to ascertain this information.

Beyond sheer numbers, the types of physicians available are critical. While PCPs often serve as the first point of contact, access to pulmonologists, specialists in lung diseases, is essential for managing moderate to severe asthma. The presence of board-certified pulmonologists within or near ZIP Code 38869 is a significant factor. Furthermore, the availability of allergists, who can identify and manage asthma triggers, is also crucial. The absence of these specialists necessitates travel to larger cities, adding to the burden on patients and potentially delaying timely interventions.

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating their approach to asthma management. Practices demonstrating excellence often incorporate evidence-based guidelines, such as those from the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP). Key indicators include the use of standardized asthma action plans, which empower patients to manage their condition effectively; regular spirometry testing to assess lung function; and patient education on proper inhaler technique and trigger avoidance. Practices actively participating in quality improvement initiatives, such as those aimed at reducing asthma exacerbations and hospitalizations, deserve recognition. Reviews from patients and data on asthma-related hospital readmission rates can provide valuable insights into practice performance.

Telemedicine, the delivery of healthcare services remotely using technology, has emerged as a valuable tool, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption by practices within ZIP Code 38869 is a crucial factor. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, medication management, and asthma education, improving access to care for patients who may face transportation challenges or live far from specialist offices. The availability of telehealth platforms and the willingness of physicians to embrace this technology can significantly impact asthma management outcomes. Furthermore, the integration of remote monitoring devices, such as peak flow meters that transmit data to the physician, can enable proactive management and prevent exacerbations.

The link between asthma and mental health is well-established. Asthma can trigger anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions, while these conditions can exacerbate asthma symptoms. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive asthma care. Practices that integrate mental health screening and counseling services, or that have established referral pathways to mental health professionals, are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients. The absence of such resources can leave patients struggling with both their physical and emotional well-being, potentially leading to poorer asthma control.

Evaluating the primary care availability in Sherman involves considering the factors discussed above, including physician-to-patient ratios, the types of physicians available, and the adoption of telemedicine. The presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or other community health clinics can be particularly important in underserved areas, providing affordable and accessible care. The availability of after-hours care and weekend appointments also contributes to accessibility. Furthermore, assessing the insurance plans accepted by local practices is crucial, as this can impact a patient’s ability to access care.

The specific practices within ZIP Code 38869 should be investigated. This includes the names of the practices, the physicians practicing there, and their areas of specialization. The use of online directories, healthcare provider databases, and patient reviews can provide valuable information. Furthermore, contacting the practices directly to inquire about their services, including their approach to asthma management, telemedicine capabilities, and mental health resources, is recommended.

In conclusion, assessing the asthma care landscape in ZIP Code 38869 and Sherman, Mississippi, requires a comprehensive evaluation of physician availability, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. By understanding these factors, patients can make informed decisions about their healthcare, and healthcare providers can identify areas for improvement. The information gathered can be visualized and analyzed using advanced mapping tools.

Ready to explore the healthcare landscape in Sherman and surrounding areas visually? Leverage the power of geographic data and mapping to gain deeper insights into healthcare access and resource distribution. Visit CartoChrome maps to visualize the data and unlock a new level of understanding.