39193, Whitfield, Mississippi Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 39193, Whitfield, Mississippi is 94 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 20.78 percent of the residents in 39193 has some form of health insurance. 14.88 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 5.90 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 39193 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 10 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 79 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39193. An estimate of 44 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 56 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 10,906 health care providers accessible to residents in 39193, Whitfield, Mississippi.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 39193 and Primary Care Availability in Whitfield

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality within a specific geographic area requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians in Whitfield, Mississippi, focusing specifically on the services offered by doctors practicing within ZIP code 39193, and evaluating their capacity to manage asthma. This will involve assessing physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, examining telemedicine adoption, and evaluating the availability of mental health resources, all factors influencing an "Asthma Score" for the region.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a foundational metric. Determining the precise ratio in Whitfield, and particularly within 39193, necessitates obtaining current data from sources like the Mississippi State Board of Medical Licensure and the U.S. Census Bureau. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally translates to improved access to care, including timely appointments and more comprehensive asthma management. Conversely, a higher ratio may indicate longer wait times, potentially delayed diagnoses, and less frequent follow-up appointments, all of which can negatively impact asthma control. The availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists and allergists, is also crucial. Their presence within or readily accessible to the community significantly improves the overall asthma care landscape.

Identifying standout practices within ZIP code 39193 requires a deeper dive. This involves examining patient reviews, analyzing practice websites, and potentially conducting interviews with local healthcare professionals. Practices that consistently receive positive feedback, offer extended hours, and demonstrate a commitment to patient education often stand out. Specifically, for asthma management, practices should be evaluated based on their use of evidence-based guidelines, their provision of individualized asthma action plans, and their ability to effectively manage asthma exacerbations. The presence of certified asthma educators within a practice is a particularly strong indicator of quality asthma care.

Telemedicine adoption has emerged as a critical component of healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas like Whitfield. The availability of telehealth services, including virtual consultations and remote monitoring, can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with chronic conditions like asthma. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can offer greater flexibility, reduce travel burdens for patients, and facilitate more frequent follow-up appointments. Assessing the level of telemedicine adoption involves examining practice websites, inquiring about telehealth offerings during a phone call, and reviewing insurance coverage for telehealth services. The ease of use of the telehealth platform and the availability of technical support for patients are also important considerations.

The intersection of asthma and mental health is increasingly recognized as a crucial aspect of comprehensive care. Asthma can significantly impact mental well-being, and conversely, mental health conditions can worsen asthma symptoms. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the community is a vital component of the "Asthma Score." This includes access to psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and support groups. Practices that integrate mental health screening into their asthma management protocols and offer referrals to mental health professionals are better equipped to provide holistic care. Collaboration between primary care physicians, pulmonologists, and mental health providers is essential for optimizing patient outcomes.

Evaluating the “Asthma Score” involves synthesizing all these factors. A high score indicates a community with ample primary care physicians, readily available specialists, widespread telemedicine adoption, and robust mental health resources. Such a community is well-equipped to provide high-quality asthma care. Conversely, a low score suggests challenges in accessing care, potentially leading to poor asthma control and increased hospitalizations. The "Asthma Score" is not a static metric; it evolves with changes in healthcare infrastructure, technology, and community needs.

The analysis should also consider the specific demographics of the population served by the physicians in 39193. Factors like age, socioeconomic status, and the prevalence of asthma within the community can influence the demands placed on healthcare providers. Tailoring asthma management strategies to the specific needs of the patient population is crucial for achieving optimal outcomes. This involves considering cultural sensitivity, language barriers, and access to resources like affordable medications and inhalers.

Furthermore, evaluating the efficiency of the healthcare system is essential. This involves assessing appointment wait times, the availability of after-hours care, and the ease of communication between patients and their healthcare providers. Practices that prioritize patient communication and provide timely access to care are more likely to achieve positive outcomes in asthma management. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) can also contribute to improved efficiency and coordination of care.

The overall "Asthma Score" for 39193 and primary care availability in Whitfield is a dynamic assessment. It requires continuous monitoring and evaluation to identify areas for improvement. This includes advocating for policies that support healthcare access, promoting the adoption of evidence-based asthma management guidelines, and fostering collaboration between healthcare providers and community organizations. Addressing the social determinants of health, such as poverty, housing instability, and environmental factors, is also essential for improving asthma outcomes.

This analysis, while providing a comprehensive overview, is limited by the availability of data. The accuracy of the "Asthma Score" depends on the reliability of the information gathered from various sources. A more in-depth investigation would involve direct interviews with physicians, patients, and community stakeholders. This would provide a richer understanding of the challenges and opportunities in asthma management within the region.

To visualize and analyze the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, specialist availability, and the location of pharmacies, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide valuable insights into healthcare access and help identify areas where resources are most needed. Explore the power of data visualization to improve healthcare planning and patient outcomes.