38917, Carrollton, Mississippi Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 38917, Carrollton, Mississippi is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.72 percent of the residents in 38917 has some form of health insurance. 50.50 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 51.85 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 38917 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,048 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 38917. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 801 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 682 health care providers accessible to residents in 38917, Carrollton, Mississippi.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Carrollton, MS (ZIP Code 38917)

Carrollton, Mississippi, a small town nestled in the heart of the state, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to healthcare, particularly for individuals managing asthma. Analyzing the quality of care available within ZIP code 38917 requires a multifaceted approach, considering not only the availability of physicians but also the resources and infrastructure supporting asthma management. This analysis will delve into the current landscape, examining physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, ultimately painting a picture of the "Asthma Score" for the community.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial indicator of access to care. In a rural area like Carrollton, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) and specialists, such as pulmonologists and allergists, directly impacts the ability of asthma patients to receive timely diagnoses, treatment, and ongoing management. A low physician-to-patient ratio, indicating a shortage of providers, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed care, and potentially poorer asthma control. Researching the exact physician-to-patient ratio in 38917 is the first step. Publicly available data from sources like the Mississippi State Department of Health or the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) can provide valuable insights. This initial assessment will help determine the baseline level of access to care.

Identifying standout practices is essential. Within Carrollton, certain primary care clinics or medical groups may demonstrate exemplary asthma management practices. These practices might excel in several areas: adherence to national asthma guidelines, patient education programs, the use of asthma action plans, and proactive monitoring of patients' symptoms. Look for clinics that have implemented electronic health records (EHRs) to facilitate efficient data management and communication among healthcare providers. Further investigation should focus on practices that offer comprehensive asthma education programs, including training on inhaler techniques, trigger identification, and emergency management. Patient testimonials and reviews, if available, can also provide valuable insights into the patient experience and the quality of care provided.

Telemedicine offers a significant opportunity to improve asthma care in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to connect with healthcare providers remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to specialists. The adoption of telemedicine for asthma management can take several forms, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring of lung function, and virtual asthma education sessions. Assessing the extent to which local practices have embraced telemedicine is crucial. This includes evaluating the availability of telehealth platforms, the training of healthcare providers in telehealth technologies, and the reimbursement policies of local insurance providers for telemedicine services. The successful integration of telemedicine can significantly enhance the "Asthma Score" by improving access to care and promoting patient self-management.

The link between asthma and mental health is well-established. Asthma can be a chronic condition that significantly impacts a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The integration of mental health resources into asthma care is therefore vital. This includes the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who can provide support to asthma patients. Assessing the presence of mental health services within local clinics or hospitals is important. Furthermore, evaluating the extent to which healthcare providers screen for mental health issues and offer referrals to mental health specialists is essential. A holistic approach to asthma management that addresses both physical and mental health needs is critical for improving patient outcomes.

The "Asthma Score" for Carrollton (38917) is ultimately a composite measure reflecting the availability, accessibility, and quality of asthma care. Based on the information gathered regarding physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, a comprehensive assessment can be made. A high "Asthma Score" would indicate a community with ample access to qualified healthcare providers, effective asthma management programs, the utilization of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health services. Conversely, a low score would highlight areas for improvement, such as physician shortages, limited access to specialists, a lack of telemedicine adoption, and insufficient mental health support.

A detailed analysis of the specific practices and resources available in Carrollton, MS, is essential for a complete assessment. Further research should involve contacting local healthcare providers, reviewing publicly available data, and potentially conducting patient surveys to gather firsthand information about the quality of care. This comprehensive approach will provide a more accurate and nuanced understanding of the "Asthma Score" and identify areas for improvement.

The analysis should also consider the impact of socioeconomic factors on asthma management. Poverty, lack of access to transportation, and limited health literacy can all negatively impact asthma control. Addressing these social determinants of health is crucial for improving the overall health of the community. This may involve partnering with community organizations, providing transportation assistance, and developing culturally sensitive asthma education programs.

The evaluation of the "Asthma Score" should be an ongoing process. Regular monitoring of key indicators, such as physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption rates, and patient outcomes, is essential for tracking progress and identifying areas where further intervention is needed. Continuous quality improvement efforts, such as implementing evidence-based asthma management guidelines and providing ongoing training to healthcare providers, can help to ensure that asthma patients in Carrollton receive the best possible care.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Carrollton, including physician locations, clinic services, and demographic data, consider exploring the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a dynamic and interactive way to visualize complex data, allowing you to identify patterns, trends, and disparities in healthcare access.