39051, Carthage, Mississippi Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 39051, Carthage, Mississippi is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 81.71 percent of the residents in 39051 has some form of health insurance. 45.35 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 47.92 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 39051 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,978 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39051. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,664 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 286 health care providers accessible to residents in 39051, Carthage, Mississippi.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Carthage, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39051)

This analysis delves into the landscape of asthma care within Carthage, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39051), evaluating the availability and quality of primary care services, with a specific focus on factors impacting asthma management. We will assess the physician-to-patient ratio, identify standout practices, examine telemedicine adoption, and explore the integration of mental health resources, all contributing to an “Asthma Score” that reflects the overall accessibility and effectiveness of care.

Carthage, a relatively small community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. The success of asthma management hinges on the availability of accessible primary care physicians (PCPs) who can diagnose, treat, and provide ongoing support to patients. A critical factor is the physician-to-patient ratio. In areas with a low ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, access to timely appointments and ongoing care can be severely limited. This can lead to delayed diagnosis, inadequate treatment plans, and increased hospitalizations for asthma exacerbations. Publicly available data, such as that from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), can provide insights into the physician-to-population ratio within Leake County, where Carthage is located. A lower-than-average ratio, compared to state or national benchmarks, would negatively impact the Asthma Score.

Identifying standout practices within Carthage is crucial. These are medical facilities that demonstrate excellence in asthma management. This could involve practices that have implemented evidence-based asthma guidelines, offer comprehensive patient education programs, and actively engage in patient self-management strategies. The Asthma Score would be positively influenced by practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient outcomes, manage medication adherence, and facilitate communication between patients and providers. Furthermore, clinics that participate in quality improvement initiatives, such as those promoted by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), would contribute to a higher score.

Telemedicine adoption is another key element. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring of lung function, and medication refills via telehealth platforms can significantly improve asthma management, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in geographically isolated areas. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, providing convenient and accessible care options, would receive a higher score. This includes assessing the availability of secure video conferencing, remote monitoring devices, and patient portals that allow for easy communication and access to medical information.

The integration of mental health resources is often overlooked but plays a significant role in asthma management. Asthma can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life. Practices that recognize this and offer access to mental health professionals, either on-site or through referrals, would significantly enhance the Asthma Score. This includes assessing the availability of behavioral health specialists, therapists, and support groups that can address the psychological aspects of living with asthma.

The Asthma Score is also influenced by the availability of specialized asthma care. While primary care physicians are the cornerstone of asthma management, access to pulmonologists or allergists is critical for patients with complex or severe asthma. The presence of these specialists within or near Carthage, or the ease of referral to specialists in nearby cities, would contribute positively to the score. This includes evaluating the availability of diagnostic testing, such as spirometry and allergy testing, to accurately diagnose and manage asthma.

Furthermore, the Asthma Score would consider the availability of resources for underserved populations. This includes assessing the availability of language services for non-English speakers, programs to address health disparities, and financial assistance for patients who struggle to afford medications or medical care. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to providing equitable access to care for all residents of Carthage would be highly valued.

Finally, the Asthma Score would factor in patient satisfaction. Patient feedback is a critical indicator of the quality of care. Surveys, online reviews, and patient testimonials provide valuable insights into the patient experience. Practices that consistently receive positive feedback regarding their asthma management services would contribute to a higher score. This includes assessing the ease of scheduling appointments, the responsiveness of medical staff, and the overall patient experience.

In conclusion, the Asthma Score for Carthage, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39051) would be a composite measure reflecting the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the availability of specialized care and resources for underserved populations. A higher score would indicate a more robust and accessible healthcare system, better equipped to manage asthma and improve the health outcomes of its residents.

For a comprehensive visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Carthage, including the location of medical facilities, physician availability, and other relevant data points, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps available through CartoChrome. Their platform provides detailed visualizations and insights that can further inform your understanding of healthcare access and asthma management in this community.