39455, Lumberton, Mississippi Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 39455, Lumberton, Mississippi is 76 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 80.51 percent of the residents in 39455 has some form of health insurance. 43.17 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 48.24 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 39455 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,227 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39455. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,500 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 515 health care providers accessible to residents in 39455, Lumberton, Mississippi.

The analysis focuses on asthma care quality and primary care accessibility in Lumberton, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39455). Assessing the landscape involves considering various factors, from physician density and practice characteristics to the integration of telehealth and the availability of mental health support, all of which significantly impact the asthma score.

Lumberton, a relatively small community, likely faces challenges common in rural areas regarding healthcare access. Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to specialized care, and potential delays in asthma management. The national average physician-to-population ratio serves as a benchmark. Comparing Lumberton's ratio to this national standard reveals the extent of the access challenge. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) provides this information.

The quality of asthma care within the existing primary care infrastructure is another crucial element. Evaluating this involves examining the practices of individual physicians and clinics. Are they adhering to established asthma management guidelines, such as those from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) or the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA)? Do they routinely assess asthma control using standardized questionnaires like the Asthma Control Test (ACT) or the Asthma Control Questionnaire (ACQ)? The use of these tools is a strong indicator of proactive asthma management. Furthermore, the availability of spirometry, a test to measure lung function, is essential for accurate diagnosis and monitoring. Practices that consistently perform spirometry demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive care.

Identifying standout practices in Lumberton involves recognizing those that excel in these areas. Perhaps one clinic has implemented a robust asthma education program, empowering patients to self-manage their condition effectively. Another practice might have a dedicated asthma specialist or a nurse practitioner with specialized training in respiratory care. These practices, by demonstrating superior outcomes and patient satisfaction, would naturally elevate the overall asthma score for the area. However, the absence of specialist care in a rural environment like Lumberton could be a significant hurdle.

Telemedicine adoption is a key factor influencing healthcare access, especially in geographically isolated areas. Telehealth allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving access to specialists who might not be physically present in Lumberton. The availability of telehealth appointments for asthma management, including medication adjustments and symptom monitoring, can significantly improve the asthma score. Assessing the extent of telehealth integration involves examining the availability of virtual appointments, the types of services offered via telehealth, and the ease of use of the telehealth platforms.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to asthma management. Asthma, as a chronic condition, can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life. The availability of mental health services, such as counseling and therapy, is crucial for supporting patients. Assessing the availability involves examining the presence of mental health providers in the area, the accessibility of mental health services, and the integration of mental health support into asthma care. Ideally, primary care practices would have established referral pathways to mental health professionals, ensuring that patients receive comprehensive care.

The presence of asthma-specific resources, such as patient education materials, support groups, and asthma action plans, further enhances the asthma score. Practices that provide these resources empower patients to actively participate in their care. Asthma action plans, in particular, are essential for guiding patients on how to manage their symptoms and prevent exacerbations. The availability of these resources demonstrates a commitment to patient education and self-management.

Analyzing the insurance landscape is essential. The prevalence of different insurance types, including Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance, affects access to care. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans improve accessibility for a broader segment of the population. Furthermore, understanding the affordability of healthcare services, including the cost of medications and specialist visits, is critical for assessing the overall asthma score.

The overall asthma score for Lumberton (39455) is a composite measure reflecting all these factors. A high score indicates excellent access to care, high-quality asthma management, and comprehensive support services. A low score suggests challenges in one or more areas, requiring targeted interventions to improve asthma care. The score is not just a number; it reflects the lived experiences of asthma patients in the community.

Primary care availability, a key determinant of the asthma score, is further influenced by factors such as the number of primary care physicians, the availability of appointments, and the acceptance of new patients. Practices that are accepting new patients and offer convenient appointment times contribute to improved access. The presence of after-hours or weekend clinics also enhances accessibility, particularly for patients experiencing asthma exacerbations.

Assessing the overall quality of primary care involves evaluating the extent to which practices provide preventive care, such as vaccinations and screenings, and manage chronic conditions. Practices that excel in these areas contribute to a healthier population and improved asthma outcomes. The implementation of electronic health records (EHRs) can streamline care coordination and improve communication between providers, ultimately enhancing the asthma score.

The analysis of mental health resources, telemedicine integration, and the availability of asthma-specific resources all contribute to the final assessment of the asthma score. A comprehensive approach to asthma care includes addressing the physical, emotional, and social needs of patients.

The information gathered from various sources, including healthcare provider directories, insurance company websites, and public health data, provides a detailed picture of the healthcare landscape in Lumberton. This information is essential for making informed decisions about healthcare access and quality.

For a dynamic, visual representation of this data, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to care indicators, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive maps that can help you visualize the healthcare landscape in Lumberton and identify areas for improvement.