39040, Bentonia, Mississippi Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 39040, Bentonia, Mississippi is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.60 percent of the residents in 39040 has some form of health insurance. 51.56 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 48.01 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 39040 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,026 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39040. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 792 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 188 health care providers accessible to residents in 39040, Bentonia, Mississippi.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Bentonia, MS (ZIP Code 39040)

Analyzing the asthma care landscape within Bentonia, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39040) requires a multifaceted approach. We must consider not only the availability of physicians but also the quality of care, the utilization of modern technologies, and the integration of mental health resources, all within the context of a rural community. This analysis aims to provide an "Asthma Score" assessment, ranking the healthcare ecosystem for asthma patients.

The foundation of any healthcare assessment lies in the physician-to-patient ratio. In Bentonia, a predominantly rural area, access to primary care physicians (PCPs) is a significant concern. The national average physician-to-population ratio is around 2.6 doctors per 1,000 people. Bentonia, and by extension, ZIP Code 39040, likely falls well below this benchmark. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, limited access to specialized care, and potential delays in diagnosis and treatment, all of which negatively impact an asthma score. The presence of specialists, such as pulmonologists or allergists, is crucial for managing severe asthma cases. Their availability, or lack thereof, within a reasonable commuting distance significantly affects the overall quality of care. The ability to see a specialist quickly is a key factor in controlling asthma symptoms and preventing exacerbations.

Primary care availability in Bentonia is a critical determinant of its asthma score. Primary care physicians are the gatekeepers of healthcare, providing initial assessments, ongoing management, and referrals to specialists when necessary. The availability of a robust primary care network is essential for early diagnosis, regular monitoring, and patient education. The absence of adequate primary care resources necessitates travel to neighboring towns or cities, increasing the burden on patients, particularly those with limited transportation options or those experiencing acute asthma attacks. The presence of community health centers or federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) can partially mitigate this challenge by providing affordable care to underserved populations. These centers often offer sliding-scale fees and comprehensive services, including asthma management.

Beyond physician availability, the quality of care provided by existing practices is paramount. This includes the implementation of evidence-based asthma management guidelines, patient education programs, and the availability of resources for self-management. Practices that actively engage in asthma education, providing patients with tools and knowledge to manage their condition, tend to have better patient outcomes. This encompasses teaching patients about triggers, medication adherence, proper inhaler technique, and action plans for managing exacerbations. The implementation of these practices elevates the asthma score.

Identifying "standout practices" within Bentonia requires a deeper dive into individual clinic performance. Factors to consider include patient satisfaction scores, adherence to asthma guidelines, the frequency of emergency room visits for asthma-related issues, and the utilization of preventative care measures. Practices that consistently demonstrate positive outcomes, such as reduced hospitalizations and improved symptom control, would be considered high-performing. These practices often have dedicated asthma management programs, trained staff, and a commitment to patient-centered care. Identifying and highlighting these practices is crucial for informing patients and promoting best practices within the community.

The adoption of telemedicine is another critical factor in assessing the asthma score. Telemedicine offers significant advantages in rural areas, where access to care is often limited. Virtual consultations can provide patients with convenient access to physicians, particularly for routine follow-up appointments and medication management. Remote monitoring technologies, such as peak flow meters that transmit data to physicians, can also help identify early signs of asthma exacerbations and allow for timely intervention. Practices that have embraced telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to expanding access to care and improving patient outcomes. The availability of reliable internet connectivity is, of course, a prerequisite for successful telemedicine implementation.

Mental health resources play a crucial, often overlooked, role in asthma management. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The integration of mental health services into asthma care is essential for addressing the holistic needs of patients. Practices that offer on-site counseling, referrals to mental health professionals, or educational programs on managing stress and anxiety can significantly improve patient outcomes. The availability of these resources elevates the asthma score.

The asthma score for Bentonia, MS (ZIP Code 39040) is likely impacted by several factors. The rural nature of the area presents challenges in terms of physician availability and access to specialized care. However, the presence of dedicated practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources can significantly improve the overall quality of care. The key to improving the asthma score lies in addressing these challenges and implementing strategies that enhance access, promote evidence-based practices, and support the holistic needs of patients.

To gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Bentonia, including physician locations, practice specializations, and the availability of resources, we recommend using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of healthcare access, allowing you to identify areas with limited resources and pinpoint practices that are providing high-quality care. This information can be invaluable for patients, healthcare providers, and community organizations working to improve asthma management in Bentonia.