39154, Raymond, Mississippi Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 39154, Raymond, Mississippi is 99 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.05 percent of the residents in 39154 has some form of health insurance. 30.46 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.36 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 39154 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,049 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39154. An estimate of 8 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,979 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,030 health care providers accessible to residents in 39154, Raymond, Mississippi.

The health landscape of Raymond, Mississippi, specifically within the 39154 ZIP code, requires a nuanced understanding when assessing asthma care and primary care accessibility. An "Asthma Score" analysis, though not a formal, standardized metric, can be constructed by evaluating several key factors. These include physician availability, practice characteristics, technological integration, and the integration of mental health services, all crucial components in delivering comprehensive care to asthma patients. This analysis will provide a framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in Raymond, Mississippi.

Physician-to-patient ratios are fundamental to accessibility. A low ratio, meaning a small number of physicians serving a large population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially, delayed diagnoses or inadequate management of chronic conditions like asthma. Data on the exact physician-to-patient ratio within 39154 is essential. Publicly available resources, such as the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or the Mississippi State Department of Health, can provide this information. If the ratio is unfavorable, it highlights a critical area for improvement and suggests a need for strategies to increase physician presence, such as incentivizing recruitment or supporting telehealth initiatives.

The nature of primary care availability in Raymond is equally important. Are there a sufficient number of primary care physicians (PCPs) accepting new patients? Are they geographically accessible, considering transportation limitations for some residents? The availability of PCPs directly impacts the ability of asthma patients to receive regular check-ups, medication refills, and referrals to specialists, such as pulmonologists, when needed. A lack of readily available PCPs can force patients to seek care in emergency rooms, exacerbating asthma symptoms and increasing healthcare costs.

Within the existing primary care practices, specific features contribute to a higher "Asthma Score." Practices that offer specialized asthma clinics, employing nurses or respiratory therapists trained in asthma management, are highly beneficial. These clinics often provide patient education on triggers, medication adherence, and proper inhaler technique, all vital for effective asthma control. Furthermore, practices that integrate electronic health records (EHRs) can streamline patient care, allowing for better communication between providers, easier access to patient histories, and improved medication management.

Telemedicine adoption represents a significant opportunity to improve asthma care in a rural area like Raymond. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, providing access to specialists who may not be physically present in the community. This can be especially beneficial for asthma patients, allowing them to consult with pulmonologists remotely, receive medication adjustments, and monitor their condition regularly. The availability of remote monitoring devices, such as peak flow meters that transmit data to the physician, further enhances telemedicine's effectiveness. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring, will score higher in the "Asthma Score" analysis.

The integration of mental health resources is another crucial aspect. Asthma is often associated with anxiety and depression, which can worsen asthma symptoms and reduce adherence to treatment plans. Practices that offer on-site mental health services or have established referral networks with mental health professionals are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their asthma patients. Screening for mental health conditions and providing appropriate support is essential for improving overall patient outcomes. The "Asthma Score" should reflect the availability and accessibility of these mental health resources.

Standout practices within the 39154 ZIP code deserve specific recognition. These practices might excel in several areas, such as patient education, asthma action plan development, and proactive follow-up care. They might have implemented innovative programs, such as asthma support groups or home-based asthma management programs. Identifying and highlighting these exemplary practices can provide valuable insights for other providers and encourage the adoption of best practices throughout the community. These practices could also serve as models for others.

Evaluating the availability of specialized asthma care, such as pulmonologists, is also crucial. While primary care physicians can manage many asthma cases, patients with severe or uncontrolled asthma often require the expertise of a pulmonologist. The proximity and accessibility of pulmonologists in the region significantly impact the quality of asthma care. The "Asthma Score" should reflect the availability of these specialists and the ease with which patients can access their services.

The use of patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) is another factor to consider. PROMs involve asking patients about their symptoms, quality of life, and satisfaction with care. Practices that regularly collect and analyze PROMs can gain valuable insights into the effectiveness of their treatment plans and identify areas for improvement. This patient-centered approach to care contributes to a higher "Asthma Score."

Finally, the "Asthma Score" analysis should take into account the availability of resources for asthma education and support. This includes educational materials, support groups, and access to community health workers who can provide assistance with medication adherence, trigger avoidance, and other aspects of asthma management. The presence of these resources empowers patients to actively participate in their care and improves their overall outcomes.

To gain a more visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Raymond, Mississippi, and specifically within the 39154 ZIP code, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can visually represent the distribution of healthcare providers, patient demographics, and other relevant data, providing a comprehensive and easily understandable overview of the healthcare ecosystem. This visual representation can aid in identifying areas of need, assessing accessibility, and making informed decisions about healthcare resource allocation.