38948, Oakland, Mississippi Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 38948, Oakland, Mississippi is 10 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 81.31 percent of the residents in 38948 has some form of health insurance. 36.06 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 48.83 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 38948 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 300 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 38948. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 272 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 183 health care providers accessible to residents in 38948, Oakland, Mississippi.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in 38948 and Primary Care in Oakland

The city of Oakland, Mississippi, nestled within ZIP Code 38948, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing asthma. Evaluating the quality and availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is paramount, as they often serve as the first point of contact for asthma management and coordination of specialized care. This analysis delves into the specifics of physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources, ultimately aiming to provide an "Asthma Score" assessment for the area.

Physician-to-patient ratios in 38948, and Oakland more broadly, are a crucial indicator of healthcare accessibility. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially delayed asthma management. Publicly available data from sources like the Mississippi State Department of Health and the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) can be leveraged to determine the current physician-to-patient ratio within the ZIP code. This data, when compared to national or state averages, helps establish a baseline understanding of the healthcare burden on existing providers. A lower-than-average ratio would negatively impact the "Asthma Score" due to the potential for limited access to timely medical intervention.

Identifying standout practices within 38948 requires a multi-faceted approach. Examining online reviews, patient testimonials, and practice websites can reveal insights into patient satisfaction, the availability of specialized asthma care, and the overall patient experience. Practices that actively participate in asthma education programs, offer comprehensive asthma action plans, and demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care would likely receive higher marks. Furthermore, the presence of board-certified allergists or pulmonologists within a practice or readily available through referral networks would significantly enhance the "Asthma Score" for that particular provider and the overall ZIP code assessment.

Telemedicine adoption is a significant factor in modern healthcare delivery, especially for chronic conditions like asthma. Telemedicine allows patients to remotely consult with their physicians, manage medication refills, and receive asthma education, reducing the need for in-person visits, particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility limitations or those residing in rural areas. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms, offer virtual appointments, and utilize remote monitoring devices for asthma management would contribute positively to the "Asthma Score." The availability of telehealth services, including options for after-hours consultations, could significantly improve asthma management outcomes and enhance the overall healthcare experience for patients in 38948.

The link between asthma and mental health is well-documented. Anxiety and depression can exacerbate asthma symptoms, and conversely, the challenges of managing asthma can contribute to mental health issues. The availability of mental health resources, such as access to therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within the primary care setting or through referral networks is crucial for comprehensive asthma care. Practices that screen patients for mental health concerns, offer integrated mental health services, or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals would contribute positively to the "Asthma Score." This integrated approach to care recognizes the interconnectedness of physical and mental well-being, leading to more effective asthma management and improved patient outcomes.

Evaluating the overall "Asthma Score" for 38948 requires synthesizing the information gathered across these key areas. The physician-to-patient ratio sets the foundation, with a favorable ratio contributing positively to the score. The presence of standout practices, characterized by patient-centered care, specialized asthma expertise, and positive patient reviews, further elevates the score. The adoption of telemedicine, providing remote access to care and convenient monitoring options, adds another layer of positive impact. Finally, the availability of mental health resources, either integrated within the practice or readily accessible through referral networks, completes the holistic assessment, significantly improving the "Asthma Score."

The final "Asthma Score" for 38948 would reflect a composite of these factors, providing a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape for asthma patients in the area. A high score would indicate a favorable environment, characterized by accessible physicians, quality care, telemedicine options, and integrated mental health support. A lower score would highlight areas for improvement, such as the need for increased physician availability, enhanced telemedicine adoption, and improved access to mental health services. This assessment provides a valuable framework for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers to understand the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in Oakland, Mississippi, and to identify opportunities for improvement.

Ultimately, understanding the healthcare landscape in 38948 is a complex undertaking. The "Asthma Score" analysis provides a framework for evaluating the key factors influencing asthma management. While this analysis offers a comprehensive overview, accessing real-time, geographically-specific data is crucial for making informed decisions about healthcare.

**For a visual representation of physician locations, patient demographics, and healthcare access points within 38948, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps can help you visualize the data discussed in this analysis, offering a more in-depth understanding of the healthcare landscape in Oakland, Mississippi.**