39530, Biloxi, Mississippi Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 39530, Biloxi, Mississippi is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 80.04 percent of the residents in 39530 has some form of health insurance. 51.48 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 44.37 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 39530 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,858 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39530. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,293 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 8,093 health care providers accessible to residents in 39530, Biloxi, Mississippi.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 39530 and Primary Care Availability in Biloxi

Analyzing the availability and quality of primary care, particularly concerning asthma management, within Biloxi, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39530), requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis, framed as an "Asthma Score," considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial elements for effective asthma care. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview, identifying strengths and weaknesses within the local healthcare landscape.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a foundational metric. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of primary care physicians (PCPs) relative to the population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially, delayed asthma diagnoses and treatment. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility. Within Biloxi, the exact physician-to-patient ratio requires granular data analysis. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and the Mississippi State Department of Health can offer estimates. However, these often provide a broad overview and may not fully capture the nuances of specialist availability, such as pulmonologists, who are critical for managing severe asthma cases. The availability of pediatricians, given the prevalence of asthma in children, is also a crucial factor.

Identifying standout practices is essential. These are medical facilities demonstrating excellence in asthma management, potentially through specialized clinics, patient education programs, or innovative treatment protocols. Researching local healthcare providers, including hospitals, clinics, and private practices, is necessary. Examining their websites, patient reviews, and participation in professional organizations can offer insights. Practices that actively participate in asthma-related research, utilize evidence-based guidelines, and demonstrate strong patient outcomes would score favorably. Furthermore, practices that offer comprehensive care, including allergy testing, pulmonary function testing, and personalized asthma action plans, are highly desirable.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly significant, especially in the context of chronic conditions like asthma. Telemedicine can improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in geographically underserved areas. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring of asthma symptoms, and digital patient education materials would receive a higher "Asthma Score." The availability of telehealth services can reduce the burden on patients and providers, allowing for more frequent check-ins and proactive management of asthma triggers. The quality of the telemedicine platform, including ease of use, data security, and integration with electronic health records (EHRs), is also a crucial consideration.

The integration of mental health resources is often overlooked in asthma care, but it is crucial. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life. Practices that recognize this connection and offer or facilitate access to mental health services would receive a higher score. This could include on-site therapists, referrals to mental health professionals, or educational programs addressing the psychological impact of asthma. Integrated care models, where mental health professionals collaborate with primary care physicians and pulmonologists, can lead to improved patient outcomes.

The "Asthma Score" analysis also considers the availability of specific asthma-related resources within the community. This includes access to pharmacies with a wide selection of asthma medications, support groups for asthma patients and their families, and community education programs about asthma triggers and management strategies. The presence of these resources can empower patients to take an active role in their care and improve their overall quality of life. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and schools is essential for creating a supportive environment for asthma patients.

The overall "Asthma Score" for Biloxi (ZIP Code 39530) is a composite measure, reflecting the strengths and weaknesses across all these factors. A high score indicates a robust healthcare environment with excellent access to quality asthma care, while a low score highlights areas needing improvement. The score is not a static number; it should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape, such as new practices opening, telemedicine adoption rates, and the availability of mental health services.

To accurately determine the "Asthma Score" for Biloxi, a detailed investigation is necessary. This would involve gathering data from various sources, including healthcare providers, government agencies, and patient surveys. The data should be analyzed using a standardized methodology to ensure consistency and objectivity. The resulting score can be used to inform healthcare planning, identify areas for improvement, and guide patients in choosing the best possible care. The analysis should also be transparent, with clear explanations of the methodology and data sources.

Ultimately, the goal of the "Asthma Score" analysis is to improve asthma care within Biloxi. By identifying areas of strength and weakness, the analysis can inform efforts to enhance access to care, improve the quality of treatment, and empower patients to manage their condition effectively. This requires a collaborative approach, involving healthcare providers, community organizations, and patients themselves.

For a visual representation of the data and a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Biloxi, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a powerful tool for visualizing physician density, practice locations, and access to various healthcare resources. They can also facilitate the identification of potential disparities in access to care and inform strategic planning efforts.