39503, Gulfport, Mississippi Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 39503, Gulfport, Mississippi is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.42 percent of the residents in 39503 has some form of health insurance. 37.70 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.75 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 39503 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 15,595 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39503. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 7,112 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,644 health care providers accessible to residents in 39503, Gulfport, Mississippi.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Gulfport, MS (ZIP Code 39503)

Analyzing the availability and quality of asthma care in Gulfport, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39503) requires a multifaceted approach. We need to assess the landscape of primary care physicians (PCPs), evaluate the resources available for asthma management, and consider the accessibility of these resources for the local population. This analysis will culminate in an "Asthma Score" assessment, providing a snapshot of the current situation and highlighting areas for potential improvement.

The foundation of asthma care often lies within the primary care setting. Evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. While precise figures fluctuate, Gulfport, like many areas, likely faces a challenge in this regard. A lower physician-to-patient ratio, indicating a greater availability of PCPs, is generally associated with better access to care. This is particularly important for chronic conditions like asthma, which require regular check-ups, medication management, and education. Areas with a higher ratio may experience longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying necessary interventions and exacerbating asthma symptoms.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. The "Asthma Score" must consider whether local practices adhere to established asthma guidelines. Do they routinely assess asthma control using standardized questionnaires? Are they proactive in educating patients about triggers, medication use, and emergency action plans? Practices that demonstrate a commitment to evidence-based asthma management will naturally score higher. This involves evaluating the availability of spirometry testing, a critical tool for diagnosing and monitoring lung function.

Standout practices within ZIP Code 39503 deserve recognition. These clinics often serve as models for best practices, demonstrating a commitment to comprehensive asthma care. Identifying these practices involves researching their patient reviews, assessing their accreditations, and understanding their approach to asthma management. Do they employ specialized asthma educators or respiratory therapists? Do they actively participate in community outreach programs to raise awareness about asthma? These factors contribute significantly to a higher "Asthma Score."

Telemedicine adoption presents another important consideration. The use of telemedicine, particularly for follow-up appointments and medication adjustments, can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in geographically isolated areas. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring, will receive a higher score. This is especially relevant in a region that may face transportation challenges.

Mental health resources are also integral to asthma management. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The "Asthma Score" must assess the availability of mental health support within the primary care setting or through referrals. Are there mental health professionals integrated into the practice? Are patients screened for mental health concerns? Practices that recognize the link between asthma and mental health and provide access to appropriate resources will receive a higher score.

Primary care availability in Gulfport is intrinsically linked to the overall "Asthma Score." The number of PCPs, their willingness to accept new patients, and their proximity to the patient population all play a crucial role. Areas with limited access to primary care will inevitably struggle to provide adequate asthma management. This includes the availability of urgent care facilities and emergency rooms that are equipped to handle asthma exacerbations.

The socioeconomic factors of the community also influence the "Asthma Score." Asthma disproportionately affects certain populations, including those with lower incomes and limited access to healthcare. Therefore, the analysis must consider the demographics of the area and assess the availability of resources for vulnerable populations. This includes the availability of affordable medications, patient assistance programs, and community health initiatives.

Furthermore, the "Asthma Score" should take into account the environmental factors that can trigger asthma. Are there high levels of air pollution or other environmental hazards in the area? Are there programs in place to address these environmental concerns? Practices that are aware of environmental triggers and educate patients on how to mitigate their exposure will receive a higher score.

Assessing the quality of asthma care requires a comprehensive approach. The "Asthma Score" should be a dynamic metric, regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. It should be based on a combination of quantitative data (physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption rates) and qualitative data (patient reviews, practice accreditations). The score should not be a static number, but rather a reflection of the continuous efforts to improve asthma care in the community.

In conclusion, the "Asthma Score" for Gulfport, MS (ZIP Code 39503) reflects a complex interplay of factors. While a precise score requires a detailed data collection and analysis, the above considerations provide a framework for evaluating the current state of asthma care. The availability of primary care physicians, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the commitment to evidence-based asthma management are all critical determinants of the score.

To visualize and analyze the spatial distribution of these factors, and to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Gulfport, consider exploring the power of spatial data visualization. **Visit CartoChrome maps to see how these factors can be mapped and analyzed, providing invaluable insights into the accessibility and quality of asthma care in your community.**