39144, Pattison, Mississippi Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 39144, Pattison, Mississippi is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 78.72 percent of the residents in 39144 has some form of health insurance. 69.79 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 16.88 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 39144 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 264 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39144. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 219 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 44 health care providers accessible to residents in 39144, Pattison, Mississippi.

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality in the context of asthma management requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on physicians within ZIP Code 39144 and primary care availability in Pattison, Mississippi, assessing factors crucial to asthma patients. The goal is to provide an ‘Asthma Score’ analysis, though a definitive numerical score isn't feasible without access to real-time, proprietary datasets. Instead, we'll provide a qualitative assessment, highlighting key considerations and potential areas for improvement.

ZIP Code 39144, encompassing the town of Pattison and surrounding areas, is predominantly rural. This demographic often faces unique healthcare challenges, particularly concerning specialist access and overall physician density. A critical starting point is the physician-to-patient ratio. Determining this ratio requires identifying the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) and pulmonologists actively practicing within the ZIP Code. Publicly available data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and the Mississippi State Board of Medical Licensure can provide this information. However, accurately accounting for the patient population served by each physician is essential. A low physician-to-patient ratio, ideally with a reasonable number of PCPs and pulmonologists, suggests better access to care.

Primary care availability in Pattison is a cornerstone of asthma management. PCPs are often the first point of contact, providing initial diagnoses, treatment plans, and ongoing monitoring. The presence of a sufficient number of PCPs, offering timely appointments and accepting various insurance plans, is paramount. Additionally, the availability of after-hours or weekend care options is crucial, given the unpredictable nature of asthma exacerbations. This availability can be assessed through online directories, insurance provider websites, and direct inquiries to local clinics.

Beyond physician numbers, the quality of care is paramount. Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors. Does the practice have a dedicated asthma management program? Do they employ certified asthma educators? Do they regularly conduct spirometry testing to assess lung function? Do they actively participate in quality improvement initiatives related to asthma care? Patient reviews, while subjective, can offer valuable insights into patient experiences, including communication, wait times, and overall satisfaction.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with physicians remotely. This is particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication adjustments, and asthma education. Assessing telemedicine adoption involves determining which practices offer virtual consultations, the types of services provided via telemedicine, and the availability of necessary technology for patients. A practice with robust telemedicine capabilities can significantly improve access to care for asthma patients in Pattison.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in asthma management, yet they play a crucial role. Asthma can be a chronic condition that significantly impacts a patient’s quality of life, potentially leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Assessing the availability of mental health services within the community is crucial. Does the local primary care practice have integrated behavioral health services? Are there mental health professionals in the area who specialize in treating patients with chronic illnesses? Are there resources available for patients struggling with the emotional impact of asthma? The presence of these resources can greatly improve the overall well-being of asthma patients.

Another factor is the availability of specialized asthma care. While PCPs manage the majority of asthma cases, patients with severe or uncontrolled asthma may require referral to a pulmonologist. The proximity and availability of pulmonologists are critical. Assessing this involves identifying pulmonologists in the region, evaluating their expertise in asthma management, and determining the ease of access to their services. The presence of a pulmonologist who specializes in asthma can significantly improve outcomes for patients with complex cases.

Medication access is another critical consideration. Asthma patients rely on a range of medications, including inhalers, nebulizers, and oral medications. Assessing medication access involves evaluating the proximity of pharmacies, the availability of the necessary medications, and the affordability of these medications. The presence of a pharmacy that stocks a full range of asthma medications and offers assistance with medication affordability programs is a significant advantage.

Community resources play a supporting role. Asthma patients benefit from access to educational resources, support groups, and environmental control programs. Assessing community resources involves identifying local organizations that offer asthma education, support groups, and home environmental assessments. The presence of these resources can empower patients to better manage their condition and improve their quality of life.

Evaluating the overall ‘Asthma Score’ for doctors in 39144 and primary care availability in Pattison involves synthesizing all the factors mentioned above. A higher score would be associated with a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, readily available primary care, adoption of telemedicine, integration of mental health services, access to specialist care, affordable medication access, and supportive community resources. Conversely, a lower score would indicate significant challenges in accessing and receiving quality asthma care.

The analysis should also consider the impact of social determinants of health (SDOH). SDOH, such as socioeconomic status, access to transportation, and housing conditions, can significantly impact asthma outcomes. For example, patients with limited financial resources may struggle to afford medications or access healthcare services. Patients living in substandard housing may be exposed to environmental triggers that exacerbate their asthma. Assessing the influence of SDOH is essential for a comprehensive understanding of asthma care in the region.

To gain a comprehensive visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Pattison and surrounding areas, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can visualize physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and demographic data, providing a powerful tool for analyzing healthcare accessibility and identifying areas where improvements are needed.