39170, Terry, Mississippi Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 39170, Terry, Mississippi is 99 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.47 percent of the residents in 39170 has some form of health insurance. 36.60 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.46 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 39170 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,920 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 58 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39170. An estimate of 21 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,888 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,747 health care providers accessible to residents in 39170, Terry, Mississippi.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Terry, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39170)

Analyzing the landscape of asthma care in Terry, Mississippi (ZIP code 39170) requires a multi-faceted approach. We must assess the availability and quality of primary care physicians, the adoption of innovative technologies, and the integration of mental health resources, all within the context of a community’s specific needs. This analysis provides an "Asthma Score" perspective, evaluating the accessibility and effectiveness of care for individuals managing this chronic respiratory condition.

The foundation of effective asthma management rests on accessible primary care. In Terry, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. Data from reliable sources, such as the Mississippi State Department of Health and the U.S. Census Bureau, must be examined to determine the number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the ZIP code and the total population. A low physician-to-patient ratio, indicating a shortage of primary care providers, could significantly hinder access to timely diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management of asthma. This scarcity can lead to delayed appointments, increased wait times, and potentially, poorer asthma control.

Beyond simple numbers, we need to evaluate the quality of care provided by existing practices. This involves considering factors like the availability of specialized asthma care, such as pulmonologists or allergists, within a reasonable driving distance. Are there practices that have demonstrated a commitment to asthma management through patient education programs, regular asthma action plan reviews, and adherence to national guidelines? Identifying standout practices that excel in these areas is crucial. These practices often serve as models for others and can contribute to a higher overall "Asthma Score" for the community.

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool in modern healthcare, particularly for managing chronic conditions like asthma. Its adoption in Terry is a key indicator of the community’s ability to provide accessible and convenient care. Are primary care practices offering virtual consultations for follow-up appointments, medication refills, and symptom monitoring? Telemedicine can be especially beneficial for patients with mobility limitations, those living in rural areas, or those facing transportation challenges. Assessing the level of telemedicine adoption is essential to the "Asthma Score" calculation.

Asthma is not merely a physical ailment; it can significantly impact mental health. The chronic nature of the disease, the fear of asthma attacks, and the limitations it can impose on daily activities can contribute to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The integration of mental health resources into asthma care is therefore vital. Do primary care practices in Terry offer on-site mental health services, or do they have established referral pathways to mental health professionals? Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health providers can lead to a more holistic and effective approach to asthma management, thereby boosting the "Asthma Score."

Furthermore, the availability of asthma education programs and support groups within the community is an important consideration. These resources empower patients to actively participate in their own care. Are there educational materials available in multiple languages to cater to the diverse population? Are there support groups where patients can share experiences, learn coping strategies, and receive emotional support? The presence of such resources demonstrates a commitment to patient empowerment and contributes positively to the overall "Asthma Score."

The "Asthma Score" for Terry, Mississippi, must also consider the socioeconomic factors that can influence asthma outcomes. Poverty, inadequate housing, and environmental hazards can exacerbate asthma symptoms and increase the risk of hospitalizations. Are there initiatives in place to address these social determinants of health? Are there partnerships between healthcare providers and community organizations to provide resources such as affordable housing, transportation assistance, and access to healthy food? Addressing these broader issues is crucial for improving the health and well-being of individuals with asthma.

To arrive at a comprehensive "Asthma Score," we must synthesize all these factors. This involves assigning weights to each category, reflecting their relative importance. For example, physician-to-patient ratio might carry a significant weight, while the availability of support groups might have a smaller, yet still meaningful, impact. The final score would then reflect the overall accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of asthma care in Terry, Mississippi.

The analysis should also consider the ongoing efforts to improve asthma care in the community. Are there any new initiatives being planned or implemented? Are local healthcare providers actively participating in asthma-related research or quality improvement projects? A forward-looking perspective is essential for understanding the future trajectory of asthma care in Terry.

In conclusion, evaluating the "Asthma Score" for Terry, Mississippi, requires a detailed examination of primary care availability, telemedicine adoption, mental health integration, and the broader socioeconomic context. It's a complex process that demands access to data and the ability to analyze it effectively. To visualize and understand the spatial distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, patient demographics, and environmental factors that may impact asthma prevalence, consider using CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide valuable insights and support informed decision-making for improving asthma care in Terry and similar communities.