39666, Summit, Mississippi Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 39666, Summit, Mississippi is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.96 percent of the residents in 39666 has some form of health insurance. 40.35 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.09 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 39666 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,521 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39666. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,802 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 875 health care providers accessible to residents in 39666, Summit, Mississippi.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Summit, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39666)

This analysis delves into the landscape of asthma care within Summit, Mississippi (ZIP code 39666), evaluating the availability and quality of primary care, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial elements in managing this chronic respiratory condition. This assessment aims to provide a comprehensive overview, ultimately informing residents about the resources available and highlighting areas for potential improvement.

The foundation of effective asthma management rests upon accessible and responsive primary care. In Summit, the physician-to-patient ratio serves as a critical indicator. While precise figures fluctuate, an analysis of publicly available data, including the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and state medical board records, reveals a potential shortage of primary care physicians relative to the population. This shortage, common in rural areas, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnosis or treatment of asthma. Furthermore, the availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists, within a reasonable distance is a crucial factor. The need for specialized care in managing severe asthma cases underscores the importance of proximity to these resources.

Several practices within Summit stand out for their commitment to asthma care. Identifying these "standout practices" requires examining various metrics, including patient reviews, the availability of specialized equipment (e.g., spirometry), and the implementation of evidence-based asthma management protocols. Practices that actively engage in patient education, provide individualized asthma action plans, and demonstrate a commitment to regular follow-up appointments generally achieve better patient outcomes. Investigating the adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) and their integration with patient portals is another key factor. EHRs facilitate improved communication, medication management, and the tracking of patient progress.

Telemedicine offers a promising avenue to address the challenges of rural healthcare access, particularly for chronic conditions like asthma. Its adoption within Summit's primary care practices warrants careful examination. Telemedicine allows for remote consultations, medication refills, and the monitoring of asthma symptoms. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can potentially provide more frequent and convenient follow-up care, reducing the need for in-person visits and improving patient adherence to treatment plans. The availability of telehealth services, including remote monitoring of peak flow meters and symptom diaries, can significantly enhance asthma management.

The interconnectedness of physical and mental health is increasingly recognized, especially in managing chronic conditions. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The integration of mental health resources within primary care practices is therefore crucial. This includes the availability of on-site mental health professionals, referrals to mental health specialists, and the implementation of screening tools to identify patients at risk. Practices that prioritize the mental well-being of their patients are better equipped to provide comprehensive asthma care.

Evaluating the effectiveness of asthma management requires analyzing various data points. This includes the frequency of asthma-related emergency room visits, hospitalizations, and the overall control of asthma symptoms. The use of standardized asthma control questionnaires and the tracking of medication adherence are also vital indicators. Practices that actively monitor these metrics and make adjustments to their treatment plans based on the data are more likely to achieve positive patient outcomes.

Furthermore, the availability of community resources plays a significant role in asthma management. This includes access to asthma education programs, support groups, and resources for obtaining affordable medications. Practices that collaborate with community organizations to provide these resources are better positioned to support their patients. The involvement of local pharmacies in providing medication counseling and adherence support is also a valuable asset.

Ultimately, the quality of asthma care in Summit is determined by the collective efforts of healthcare providers, community organizations, and the patients themselves. Addressing the potential physician shortage, promoting the adoption of telemedicine, integrating mental health resources, and fostering a strong emphasis on patient education are all essential steps towards improving asthma management. The presence of standout practices, those that prioritize patient-centered care and utilize evidence-based approaches, offers a beacon of hope and a model for other practices to emulate.

This analysis underscores the complexities inherent in assessing healthcare access and quality in a rural setting. The specific challenges of Summit, Mississippi, like many rural areas, are unique. Further investigation, including direct engagement with healthcare providers and community members, would provide a more nuanced understanding of the specific needs and opportunities for improvement. The findings presented here offer a valuable starting point for residents and healthcare providers alike, encouraging a collaborative approach to enhance asthma care within the community.

For a visual representation of healthcare resources in Summit, including the locations of primary care practices, specialists, pharmacies, and community resources, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. This interactive platform can provide a geographically-based understanding of the landscape of asthma care in the area, allowing you to visualize the distribution of resources and identify potential gaps in access.