39073, Florence, Mississippi Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 39073, Florence, Mississippi is 99 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.75 percent of the residents in 39073 has some form of health insurance. 37.57 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 64.55 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 39073 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,279 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39073. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,127 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,796 health care providers accessible to residents in 39073, Florence, Mississippi.

The challenge of assessing healthcare access, particularly for conditions like asthma, requires a multi-faceted approach. Focusing on ZIP Code 39073 and primary care availability in Florence, Mississippi, necessitates an "Asthma Score" analysis. This score, though not a formal metric, provides a framework to evaluate the quality and accessibility of care for asthma sufferers in the specified area. The analysis considers various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial for comprehensive asthma management.

ZIP Code 39073, a specific geographic area, serves as the initial focal point. Evaluating the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) and pulmonologists within this ZIP Code, and those accepting new patients, is essential. A low physician-to-patient ratio, particularly for specialists, would negatively impact the "Asthma Score." The presence of any specialized asthma clinics or programs would significantly boost the score. Further, the overall population demographics of 39073, including the prevalence of asthma within the community, must be considered. Higher asthma prevalence necessitates greater resources and access to care.

The "Asthma Score" also examines the characteristics of the medical practices within 39073. Are these practices equipped with the latest diagnostic tools and treatment protocols for asthma? Do they offer services such as peak flow meter training, asthma action plan development, and patient education materials? Practices demonstrating a commitment to evidence-based asthma management would receive higher marks. Additionally, the availability of after-hours care and emergency services is vital, as asthma exacerbations can occur at any time.

Telemedicine adoption plays a crucial role in modern healthcare, and its impact on the "Asthma Score" is substantial. Practices offering virtual consultations for asthma management, medication refills, and follow-up appointments would receive high scores. Telemedicine can improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. The ability to remotely monitor patients' symptoms and provide timely interventions can also reduce the frequency of emergency room visits and hospitalizations.

Mental health is inextricably linked to physical health, and this connection is especially important for individuals with chronic conditions like asthma. The "Asthma Score" must consider the availability of mental health resources within 39073. Do primary care practices offer on-site mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals? The presence of support groups, educational programs, and resources for managing anxiety and depression related to asthma would significantly improve the score. Addressing the psychological impact of asthma is critical for overall patient well-being and adherence to treatment plans.

Shifting the focus to primary care availability in Florence, Mississippi, requires a broader perspective. Florence, as a larger geographic area, will have a different set of challenges and opportunities than a single ZIP Code. The analysis should assess the overall physician-to-patient ratio for primary care physicians in Florence. A shortage of PCPs could lead to delayed diagnoses, inadequate management of chronic conditions, and increased strain on the healthcare system.

The "Asthma Score" for Florence would also examine the distribution of primary care practices throughout the city. Are there underserved areas with limited access to care? The presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or other community-based clinics that provide affordable and accessible healthcare services would positively influence the score. These clinics often serve vulnerable populations and play a critical role in improving health outcomes.

Standout practices in Florence, those demonstrating excellence in asthma management, would significantly boost the overall "Asthma Score." These practices might have specialized asthma clinics, employ certified asthma educators, or participate in research and quality improvement initiatives. They might also have a strong focus on patient education and empowerment, helping patients actively manage their condition. Identifying and highlighting these exemplary practices can serve as a model for other providers.

Evaluating the integration of telemedicine in Florence is also crucial. Are primary care practices utilizing telehealth to improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations? Telemedicine can facilitate remote monitoring, medication management, and follow-up appointments, improving patient outcomes and reducing healthcare costs. Practices that embrace telemedicine would receive higher scores.

Furthermore, the availability of mental health resources in Florence is critical. Does the city have sufficient mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists? Are there readily available resources for individuals with anxiety and depression related to asthma? The presence of support groups, educational programs, and mental health services would significantly improve the "Asthma Score."

The "Asthma Score" analysis, though not a formal rating system, provides a valuable framework for understanding healthcare access and quality for asthma sufferers in 39073 and Florence. It highlights the importance of physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. By assessing these factors, we can identify areas for improvement and work towards providing better care for individuals with asthma.

To visualize these factors and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in 39073 and Florence, Mississippi, consider exploring the interactive maps and data visualization tools offered by CartoChrome maps. These resources can provide valuable insights into physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to care, helping you make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.