38921, Charleston, Mississippi Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 38921, Charleston, Mississippi is 5 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 80.28 percent of the residents in 38921 has some form of health insurance. 49.21 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 40.64 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 38921 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,210 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 38921. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 593 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 72 health care providers accessible to residents in 38921, Charleston, Mississippi.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Charleston, MS (38921) & Primary Care Availability

Analyzing the healthcare landscape within ZIP code 38921, Charleston, Mississippi, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis, framed around an “Asthma Score,” considers factors crucial for effective asthma management, including primary care access, specialist availability, telemedicine integration, and mental health support. The goal is to provide a realistic assessment of the resources available to asthma sufferers and identify potential areas for improvement. We will also briefly assess primary care availability in the broader context of Charleston.

The Asthma Score, in this context, is not a numerical value but a qualitative assessment based on several interwoven criteria. Primary care availability serves as the foundation. Without consistent access to a primary care physician (PCP), effective asthma management becomes significantly more challenging. This includes regular check-ups, medication management, and timely referrals to specialists. In Charleston, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A high ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments and reduced access to care. Researching the current ratio within 38921 and comparing it to state and national averages will be a crucial first step in determining the accessibility of primary care.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Does the local healthcare system prioritize preventative care and patient education? Are PCPs well-versed in asthma management guidelines? Do they have established protocols for asthma action plans and regular follow-up appointments? These factors directly impact the Asthma Score, highlighting the importance of proactive and patient-centered care.

Specialist availability is the next crucial component. Asthma, particularly severe cases, often requires the expertise of pulmonologists and allergists. The presence of these specialists within or near 38921 is a significant advantage. The Asthma Score benefits from easy access to specialized care. The distance patients must travel, the wait times for appointments, and the overall availability of these specialists all contribute to the final assessment.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare, particularly for chronic conditions like asthma. The adoption of telemedicine by local healthcare providers significantly impacts the Asthma Score. Does the area have providers offering virtual consultations for medication refills, asthma management education, or follow-up appointments? Telemedicine can improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Its presence can significantly improve the Asthma Score.

Mental health support is often overlooked in asthma management, but it is essential. Asthma can be a significant source of stress and anxiety, and these mental health challenges can exacerbate asthma symptoms. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists and counselors, is therefore a crucial component of the Asthma Score. Does the area have mental health professionals who are familiar with the challenges faced by asthma patients? Are there support groups or educational programs available? These resources can significantly improve the overall quality of life for asthma sufferers and contribute to better asthma control.

The Asthma Score is also influenced by the presence of standout practices. These are healthcare providers who demonstrate a commitment to excellence in asthma management. This could include practices with a dedicated asthma clinic, a multidisciplinary team, or a strong focus on patient education. Identifying and highlighting these standout practices can provide valuable insights for patients seeking the best possible care. These practices often serve as a model for other providers in the area.

Analyzing the primary care availability in the broader context of Charleston requires looking beyond the specific ZIP code. The overall healthcare infrastructure of the city plays a role. Are there hospitals or clinics that provide comprehensive care? What is the overall healthcare access like for the general population? These factors can indirectly impact the Asthma Score by influencing the availability of resources and the overall quality of care.

In assessing the healthcare landscape of Charleston, it's important to note that the information available can be dynamic. Physician availability, telemedicine offerings, and mental health resources can change over time. Therefore, regular updates and assessments are necessary to maintain an accurate understanding of the situation.

To provide a comprehensive analysis of the Asthma Score, a deep dive into the specific healthcare providers within 38921 is essential. This includes researching the services offered by each practice, the experience of the physicians, and the patient reviews. Contacting local healthcare providers to gather information about their asthma management protocols and telemedicine offerings is also a valuable step.

This analysis provides a framework for understanding the healthcare landscape in Charleston, MS (38921) and assessing its impact on asthma management. The Asthma Score is a qualitative assessment based on primary care availability, specialist access, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the presence of standout practices. The information gathered can be used to identify areas for improvement and to help patients make informed decisions about their healthcare.

For a visual representation of this healthcare landscape, including the locations of healthcare providers, specialists, and mental health resources, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that can help you visualize the availability of healthcare resources in your area.