39577, Wiggins, Mississippi Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 39577, Wiggins, Mississippi is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 78.41 percent of the residents in 39577 has some form of health insurance. 42.12 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 47.27 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 39577 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,672 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39577. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,447 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 182 health care providers accessible to residents in 39577, Wiggins, Mississippi.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Wiggins, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39577)

This analysis evaluates the quality of asthma care and primary care accessibility within Wiggins, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39577), focusing on factors relevant to patient outcomes. The assessment considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components of comprehensive asthma management. The ultimate goal is to provide an informed perspective on the local healthcare landscape for individuals managing asthma and those seeking primary care services.

The foundation of accessible healthcare lies in the availability of qualified medical professionals. In Wiggins, the physician-to-patient ratio for primary care physicians is a critical metric. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of doctors, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and ultimately, compromised care. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility and potentially better patient outcomes. Accurate data on this ratio requires a comprehensive assessment of the number of primary care physicians practicing within the ZIP code, including family medicine, internal medicine, and pediatricians, compared to the total population of 39577. This data, ideally, would be sourced from the Mississippi State Board of Medical Licensure and the U.S. Census Bureau to ensure accuracy.

Beyond mere numbers, the quality of care is paramount. Identifying standout practices within Wiggins is essential. This involves evaluating practices that demonstrate a commitment to asthma management best practices. Key indicators include the use of evidence-based treatment guidelines, patient education programs, and regular monitoring of asthma control. Practices that actively participate in asthma-related research or quality improvement initiatives deserve recognition. Furthermore, the presence of certified asthma educators within a practice is a significant advantage, as these professionals provide specialized knowledge and support to patients. Reviews from patients and their families are also crucial, offering insights into the patient experience, communication effectiveness, and overall satisfaction with the care received.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare delivery, particularly for chronic conditions like asthma. Its adoption in Wiggins can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients who live in rural areas or have mobility limitations. The availability of telehealth consultations, remote monitoring devices, and virtual asthma education programs can enhance patient self-management and reduce the need for frequent in-person visits. Practices that embrace telemedicine can offer greater convenience and flexibility, leading to improved patient adherence to treatment plans and better asthma control. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption requires identifying practices that offer telehealth services, evaluating the types of services available, and assessing the technology infrastructure supporting these services.

Asthma is a complex condition that often coexists with mental health challenges, such as anxiety and depression. The availability of mental health resources in Wiggins is therefore a crucial factor in providing comprehensive asthma care. Practices that integrate mental health screening and treatment into their asthma management programs are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients. This includes access to mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers. Collaboration between primary care physicians, pulmonologists, and mental health providers is essential for ensuring coordinated and effective care. Assessing the availability of mental health resources involves identifying local mental health providers, evaluating the types of services offered, and assessing the level of integration with primary care practices.

A thorough analysis of the healthcare landscape in Wiggins requires considering the interplay of these factors. A practice with a high physician-to-patient ratio but lacking telemedicine capabilities may struggle to provide timely and convenient care. Conversely, a practice with advanced telemedicine but limited access to mental health resources may not address the full spectrum of patient needs. The ideal scenario involves a combination of factors: a sufficient number of primary care physicians, standout practices that adhere to best practices, robust telemedicine infrastructure, and readily available mental health resources.

The assessment of these factors requires a multifaceted approach. Data collection from various sources, including healthcare providers, patient surveys, and public health agencies, is essential. Analyzing this data to identify strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement is crucial. This analysis should be updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape, such as the arrival of new providers, the adoption of new technologies, or changes in healthcare policies.

The healthcare ecosystem in Wiggins, like many rural communities, faces unique challenges. Limited resources, geographic barriers, and socioeconomic factors can impact access to care. Addressing these challenges requires a collaborative effort involving healthcare providers, community organizations, and policymakers. Initiatives to increase the number of primary care physicians, expand telemedicine services, and improve access to mental health resources are crucial for improving asthma care and overall health outcomes in the community.

Ultimately, the goal of this analysis is to empower individuals with asthma and their families to make informed decisions about their healthcare. By providing a clear and concise assessment of the local healthcare landscape, this analysis can help patients navigate the system, identify the best practices, and advocate for their own health needs. The information presented here should serve as a starting point for further investigation and engagement with the healthcare community.

For a comprehensive visualization of the healthcare landscape in Wiggins, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and resource availability, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps offer a powerful tool for understanding the spatial distribution of healthcare resources and identifying areas where improvements are needed.