39047, Brandon, Mississippi Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 39047, Brandon, Mississippi is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.23 percent of the residents in 39047 has some form of health insurance. 25.39 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.06 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 39047 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 10,001 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39047. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,517 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,098 health care providers accessible to residents in 39047, Brandon, Mississippi.

**Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 39047 and Primary Care Availability in Brandon, Mississippi**

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality within a specific geographic area requires a multifaceted approach, considering factors beyond simple physician counts. This analysis focuses on ZIP Code 39047, encompassing Brandon, Mississippi, evaluating the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) and, crucially, the resources available for managing asthma, a chronic respiratory condition significantly impacting community health. We will examine physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, culminating in a comprehensive “Asthma Score” assessment.

The foundation of any healthcare evaluation lies in understanding the physician-to-patient ratio. In Brandon, the ideal ratio would be one PCP for every 1,500 residents, but this is rarely achieved. Data collection, often from sources like the Mississippi State Department of Health and the American Medical Association, provides a snapshot. Publicly available information, such as the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) data, is utilized to determine the number of PCPs actively practicing within the ZIP code. Population data, from the U.S. Census Bureau, is then overlaid to calculate the ratio. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, is a red flag, potentially hindering timely access to care and contributing to poorer health outcomes, especially for chronic conditions like asthma.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of care delivery is paramount. Identifying “standout practices” requires a deeper dive. This involves reviewing patient satisfaction surveys, assessing the practice's accreditation status (e.g., from the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care), and examining the availability of specialized asthma management services. Practices that proactively offer asthma education programs, provide comprehensive pulmonary function testing, and employ certified asthma educators are highly valued. Furthermore, the availability of after-hours care and same-day appointments significantly impacts patient access and the ability to manage asthma exacerbations effectively. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, evidenced by positive online reviews and testimonials, are also given higher consideration.

Telemedicine has emerged as a crucial tool for expanding healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. In the context of asthma management, telemedicine enables remote consultations, medication refills, and symptom monitoring. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine platforms, allowing patients to connect with their physicians virtually, are highly rated. This includes the use of secure video conferencing, remote patient monitoring devices (e.g., peak flow meters with digital connectivity), and electronic patient portals. The ability to provide telehealth services, particularly for follow-up appointments and medication adjustments, can significantly reduce the burden on patients, especially those with transportation challenges or limited mobility.

Asthma is often co-morbid with mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression. Effective asthma management requires addressing both physical and psychological well-being. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting is critical. Practices that offer on-site mental health services, or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals, are highly regarded. This includes access to licensed therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups. Integration of mental health screening tools, such as the GAD-7 (Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item scale) or the PHQ-9 (Patient Health Questionnaire-9), into routine asthma care demonstrates a commitment to holistic patient care.

The “Asthma Score” is a composite metric, incorporating the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. A higher score indicates a more favorable environment for asthma management. For ZIP Code 39047, the score is derived by assigning weighted values to each factor. For example, a low physician-to-patient ratio might negatively impact the score, while the presence of a practice with certified asthma educators and robust telemedicine capabilities would positively influence the score. The final score is then interpreted to provide a clear assessment of the overall healthcare landscape for asthma patients in Brandon.

The analysis reveals a nuanced picture. While the physician-to-patient ratio may be a challenge, the presence of practices actively embracing telemedicine and integrating mental health services can improve the score. The quality of care is not solely determined by the number of doctors, but also by the services offered, the patient experience, and the integration of innovative technologies.

The results of this analysis highlight the importance of continuous monitoring and improvement. Healthcare providers in Brandon should prioritize strategies to increase the number of PCPs, enhance telemedicine capabilities, and integrate mental health services. Community initiatives, such as public health campaigns to raise awareness about asthma triggers and management strategies, are also essential. Furthermore, patients should be empowered to actively participate in their care, seeking out practices that align with their needs and preferences.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Brandon and other areas, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide interactive visualizations of healthcare data, allowing you to explore physician locations, access to care, and demographic information. They empower you to make informed decisions about your healthcare needs and advocate for improved access to quality care.