39601, Brookhaven, Mississippi Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 39601, Brookhaven, Mississippi is 15 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.34 percent of the residents in 39601 has some form of health insurance. 35.53 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.35 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 39601 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,315 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39601. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,606 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 394 health care providers accessible to residents in 39601, Brookhaven, Mississippi.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Brookhaven, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39601)

Analyzing the healthcare landscape within Brookhaven, Mississippi, specifically focusing on ZIP code 39601, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis aims to construct an "Asthma Score" framework, evaluating the accessibility and quality of care for asthma patients, with particular emphasis on primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine integration, and the presence of mental health resources. The ultimate goal is to provide a comprehensive picture of the healthcare environment and its suitability for individuals managing asthma.

The foundation of this "Asthma Score" rests on several key pillars. First, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is crucial. PCPs often serve as the initial point of contact for asthma management, providing diagnoses, treatment plans, and referrals to specialists. The physician-to-patient ratio within 39601 is a critical indicator. A high ratio (fewer patients per physician) generally indicates better access and potentially shorter wait times for appointments. Publicly available data from sources like the Mississippi State Department of Health and the U.S. Census Bureau, when combined, can help estimate this ratio. However, obtaining precise, up-to-the-minute data can be challenging, requiring careful research and data aggregation.

Second, we consider the specific practices within Brookhaven. Some practices may stand out based on their expertise, resources, and patient-centered approach. Identifying these "standout practices" involves examining factors such as the number of board-certified allergists and pulmonologists on staff, the availability of on-site pulmonary function testing, and the use of evidence-based asthma management guidelines. Patient reviews, when available, can also offer valuable insights into patient satisfaction and the quality of care. The presence of dedicated asthma educators, who can provide patients with education on medication use, trigger avoidance, and self-management techniques, is another key factor.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly relevant, especially in rural areas like Brookhaven. Telemedicine can improve access to care by reducing travel time and offering virtual consultations. The "Asthma Score" will assess the extent to which local practices offer telemedicine services, including virtual appointments for follow-up visits, medication refills, and remote monitoring of asthma symptoms. The availability of remote monitoring devices, such as peak flow meters that transmit data electronically, can be particularly beneficial for managing asthma.

Another crucial component is the integration of mental health resources. Asthma, as a chronic condition, can significantly impact mental well-being. Patients with asthma may experience anxiety, depression, and stress, which can exacerbate their symptoms. The "Asthma Score" will evaluate the availability of mental health services within the local healthcare system, including access to therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists. Ideally, practices should have integrated mental health services or established referral pathways to ensure patients receive comprehensive care. The presence of support groups or educational programs that address the psychological aspects of asthma is also a positive factor.

Data collection for this analysis involves multiple steps. First, a comprehensive list of medical practices within ZIP code 39601 needs to be compiled. This can be achieved through online searches, insurance provider directories, and local healthcare directories. Second, each practice needs to be researched to gather information on the factors outlined above: physician-to-patient ratios, specialist availability, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. This research may involve visiting practice websites, contacting practices directly, and reviewing publicly available data.

Once the data is collected, a scoring system can be developed. Each factor can be assigned a weight based on its importance in asthma management. For example, the physician-to-patient ratio might be weighted heavily, while the availability of support groups might receive a lower weight. A numerical score can then be calculated for each practice, and an overall "Asthma Score" can be generated for the entire area. This score can be presented in a clear and concise manner, allowing individuals to easily understand the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system.

The "Asthma Score" for Brookhaven, Mississippi (39601) will be a dynamic assessment, reflecting the ever-changing healthcare landscape. The analysis must consider the impact of factors like insurance coverage, socioeconomic status, and transportation access. These factors can significantly influence a patient's ability to access and utilize healthcare services. Addressing these disparities is essential for ensuring equitable asthma care.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the broader context of healthcare in Mississippi. The state faces challenges in healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. This context must be considered when interpreting the "Asthma Score" and identifying areas for improvement. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and policymakers is crucial for improving asthma care in Brookhaven.

Finally, the results of this analysis can be used to inform decision-making. Individuals with asthma can use the "Asthma Score" to select a primary care provider or seek specialized care. Healthcare providers can use the analysis to identify areas for improvement and develop strategies to enhance their services. Policymakers can use the data to advocate for policies that support asthma management, such as increasing access to affordable medications and expanding telemedicine services.

In conclusion, a comprehensive "Asthma Score" analysis for Brookhaven, Mississippi (39601) requires a detailed examination of primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. By carefully collecting and analyzing data, a clear picture of the healthcare environment can be created, allowing for informed decision-making and ultimately, improved asthma care.

To visualize the healthcare landscape of Brookhaven and explore the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, we encourage you to visit **CartoChrome maps**.