39168, Taylorsville, Mississippi Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 39168, Taylorsville, Mississippi is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.96 percent of the residents in 39168 has some form of health insurance. 45.77 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.37 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 39168 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,375 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39168. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,143 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 130 health care providers accessible to residents in 39168, Taylorsville, Mississippi.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Taylorsville, MS (ZIP Code 39168) – A Deep Dive

Taylorsville, Mississippi, nestled in the heart of Smith County, presents a unique challenge when assessing asthma care availability and quality. Analyzing an "Asthma Score" for this specific locale requires a nuanced approach, considering the interplay of physician resources, healthcare infrastructure, and patient needs. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the current landscape, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and potential areas for improvement, ultimately informing better patient outcomes.

The foundation of any asthma score hinges on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Taylorsville, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. A limited number of PCPs, especially those with specialized training in pulmonology or allergy and immunology, can significantly impact access to care. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced opportunities for proactive asthma management, and increased reliance on emergency room visits during exacerbations. Assessing this ratio involves examining the total population of Taylorsville (approximately 1,500 residents) and determining the number of practicing PCPs within the ZIP code. Further investigation should include the number of board-certified pulmonologists and allergists serving the area, even if they are not physically located within the ZIP code.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. The "Asthma Score" must consider the practices and their adherence to evidence-based asthma management guidelines. This includes evaluating the use of standardized asthma action plans, regular peak flow monitoring, and patient education on trigger avoidance and medication adherence. Practices that routinely incorporate these elements into their patient care plans would receive higher scores. Conversely, those that fail to prioritize these aspects would receive lower scores, indicating a potential need for improvement.

Standout practices within Taylorsville deserve recognition. Identifying clinics or individual physicians who demonstrate a commitment to excellence in asthma care is crucial. This involves looking for practices that have implemented innovative approaches, such as asthma education programs, support groups, or readily available resources for patients. These practices often serve as models for others, promoting best practices and improving overall patient outcomes. Their dedication to patient-centered care should be a significant factor in the "Asthma Score" calculation.

Telemedicine adoption is another key component. The ability to access healthcare remotely, particularly for follow-up appointments and medication management, can be a game-changer for asthma patients. Telemedicine can reduce the burden of travel, especially for those with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas. The "Asthma Score" must assess the availability of telemedicine services offered by local practices, including the types of services provided (e.g., virtual consultations, medication refills) and the ease of access for patients. Practices that embrace telemedicine and integrate it seamlessly into their workflow should be rewarded with higher scores.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in asthma management, but they are critical. 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. The "Asthma Score" must evaluate the availability of mental health services within Taylorsville, including access to therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists. Practices that screen for mental health issues and provide referrals to appropriate resources should receive higher scores. This integrated approach to care recognizes the interconnectedness of physical and mental well-being.

The "Asthma Score" should also consider the availability of asthma-specific resources, such as certified asthma educators, respiratory therapists, and specialized clinics. These resources can provide patients with the education, support, and expertise they need to effectively manage their condition. The presence of these resources, along with their accessibility to patients, should be a key factor in determining the overall score.

The socioeconomic factors of Taylorsville should also be considered. Poverty, lack of insurance, and limited access to transportation can all negatively impact asthma management. The "Asthma Score" should assess the availability of financial assistance programs, free clinics, and transportation services for asthma patients. Practices that actively work to address these barriers to care should be recognized for their commitment to serving the community.

The "Asthma Score" should not be a static measure. It should be a dynamic assessment that is regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. This includes monitoring the availability of new treatments, the adoption of innovative technologies, and the evolving needs of the patient population. Regular updates ensure that the score remains relevant and useful for both patients and healthcare providers.

Furthermore, the "Asthma Score" should be transparent and easily accessible to the public. This allows patients to make informed decisions about their healthcare and encourages providers to strive for excellence. The score should be accompanied by clear explanations of the methodology used and the factors considered.

Finally, the "Asthma Score" should be used as a tool for continuous improvement. By identifying areas where care is lacking, healthcare providers can work together to develop strategies to improve patient outcomes. This may involve implementing new programs, providing additional training, or advocating for policy changes. The ultimate goal is to create a healthcare environment where all asthma patients in Taylorsville have access to the best possible care.

To visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, identify potential gaps in care, and understand the geographic context of asthma management in Taylorsville, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a visual representation of the "Asthma Score" data, allowing for a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the community.