39576, Waveland, Mississippi Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 39576, Waveland, Mississippi is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.53 percent of the residents in 39576 has some form of health insurance. 39.05 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.34 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 39576 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,540 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39576. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 955 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 747 health care providers accessible to residents in 39576, Waveland, Mississippi.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Waveland, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39576)

Analyzing the availability of quality asthma care within Waveland, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39576) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers factors crucial to patient well-being, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Asthma Score" assessment, highlighting strengths and weaknesses within the local healthcare landscape.

Waveland, a coastal community, faces unique challenges related to asthma management. The humid climate and potential for mold and allergens contribute to higher asthma prevalence. Therefore, access to prompt and effective care is critical. The "Asthma Score" here is not a simple numerical value but a qualitative assessment derived from various data points.

One of the primary indicators is physician-to-patient ratio. Determining the exact ratio for primary care physicians (PCPs) within the 39576 ZIP code is essential. This data, ideally sourced from the Mississippi State Board of Medical Licensure and the US Census Bureau, reveals the potential burden on existing healthcare providers. A high ratio suggests a potential for longer wait times, reduced appointment availability, and decreased physician-patient interaction time, all of which can negatively impact asthma management. The analysis must determine if the current PCP count is sufficient to meet the needs of the community, especially considering the potentially elevated asthma prevalence. Further, the availability of pulmonologists, specialists in lung diseases, is a crucial factor. Access to specialized care is vital for patients with severe or uncontrolled asthma.

Identifying standout practices within the area is another critical element. This involves evaluating practices based on several criteria. Are they accepting new patients? Do they have experience treating asthma? What is their approach to asthma management? Do they offer comprehensive asthma education programs for patients and their families? Do they have certified asthma educators on staff? Practices excelling in these areas are considered "standout," providing a higher level of care and potentially contributing to better patient outcomes. Reviewing online patient reviews, when available, can offer insights into patient experiences, further informing this assessment.

Telemedicine adoption is rapidly changing healthcare delivery, and its impact on asthma management is significant. Does the local healthcare system offer telemedicine options for asthma patients? Telemedicine can improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. It allows for virtual consultations, medication management, and remote monitoring of lung function. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can potentially improve patient outcomes and provide more convenient care options. The analysis will investigate the availability of telemedicine services, the types of services offered (e.g., virtual check-ups, medication refills), and the ease of access for patients.

The integration of mental health resources is increasingly recognized as a critical component of comprehensive asthma care. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life. Does the local healthcare system recognize this connection? Are mental health services readily available to asthma patients? Practices that integrate mental health support, either through in-house therapists or referrals to external providers, are considered to be providing more holistic care. This aspect of the analysis will examine the availability of mental health services, the referral processes, and the overall awareness of the link between asthma and mental health within the local healthcare community.

The analysis must also consider the availability of emergency care. How close are the nearest hospitals with emergency departments equipped to handle asthma exacerbations? The proximity and accessibility of emergency services are crucial for patients experiencing severe asthma attacks. The analysis will assess the distance to emergency departments, their capacity to handle asthma cases, and the availability of specialized asthma care within the emergency setting.

Another factor to consider is the availability of community resources. Are there local support groups for asthma patients and their families? Are there educational programs offered by community organizations or healthcare providers? Access to these resources can empower patients to better manage their condition and improve their quality of life. The analysis will investigate the presence of such resources and their accessibility to the community.

Overall, the "Asthma Score" for Waveland, Mississippi (39576) is determined by a combination of these factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, the accessibility of emergency care, and the availability of community resources all contribute to the final assessment. The score is not just a number but a reflection of the community's capacity to provide high-quality, accessible, and comprehensive asthma care. The analysis will highlight areas of strength and areas needing improvement.

This analysis is not a static assessment. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. New technologies emerge, practices adapt, and community needs change. Therefore, ongoing monitoring and evaluation are essential to ensure that asthma patients in Waveland receive the best possible care. The "Asthma Score" should be regularly updated to reflect these changes and to identify opportunities for improvement.

For a visual representation of these factors, their locations, and their relationships, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a dynamic and interactive view of the healthcare landscape, helping you understand the accessibility of care and identify potential gaps in service.