39766, Steens, Mississippi Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 39766, Steens, Mississippi is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.11 percent of the residents in 39766 has some form of health insurance. 18.20 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.39 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 39766 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 711 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 20 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39766. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 339 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 324 health care providers accessible to residents in 39766, Steens, Mississippi.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Steens, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39766)

The health landscape of Steens, Mississippi (ZIP code 39766) presents a complex picture when viewed through the lens of asthma management and primary care access. This analysis aims to provide an "Asthma Score" assessment, considering factors impacting asthma patients, including physician availability, practice quality, and the availability of supporting resources. It will conclude with a call to action for utilizing CartoChrome maps for a deeper, visual understanding of these healthcare dynamics.

Steens, a rural community, faces inherent challenges in healthcare provision. The sparse population distribution often translates to a limited number of healthcare providers, impacting the crucial physician-to-patient ratio. This ratio directly influences the accessibility of primary care, a cornerstone of effective asthma management. Regular check-ups, medication management, and patient education are all vital components of controlling asthma symptoms and preventing exacerbations. A low physician-to-patient ratio can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and a potential for delayed or inadequate care.

The availability of primary care in Steens is the foundation upon which asthma care is built. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are typically the first point of contact for asthma patients. They diagnose, manage, and coordinate care. The presence of a robust primary care network, with sufficient capacity to serve the local population, is critical. This includes not only the number of PCPs but also the availability of nurses, medical assistants, and other support staff who contribute to the overall patient experience.

Analyzing specific practices within the 39766 ZIP code is essential to understanding the quality of care offered. Are there any standout practices that demonstrate a commitment to asthma management? Do they offer specialized asthma clinics, patient education programs, or asthma action plans tailored to individual needs? Practices that prioritize patient education, provide clear instructions on medication use and symptom management, and actively monitor patient progress tend to achieve better outcomes. This requires assessing the practices' commitment to using evidence-based guidelines, their patient satisfaction scores, and their track record in managing asthma-related hospitalizations and emergency room visits.

Telemedicine, in the context of asthma care, presents both opportunities and challenges. In a rural area like Steens, telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with specialists or receive follow-up care remotely. This can be particularly beneficial for patients with chronic conditions like asthma, who require regular monitoring and adjustments to their treatment plans. However, successful telemedicine implementation requires reliable internet access, patient comfort with technology, and the availability of trained healthcare professionals to conduct virtual consultations. The adoption rate of telemedicine among practices in the 39766 ZIP code is a key indicator of their commitment to patient access and convenience.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in the context of asthma management, but they play a crucial role. Asthma, being a chronic condition, can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being. Anxiety, depression, and stress can exacerbate asthma symptoms and reduce treatment adherence. The availability of mental health services, such as counseling and therapy, is therefore an important factor in the overall Asthma Score. The proximity of mental health providers, the acceptance of insurance, and the integration of mental health services into primary care settings all contribute to the accessibility and effectiveness of these resources.

The Asthma Score, as a composite metric, would ideally incorporate data from multiple sources. This includes information from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the Mississippi State Department of Health, and private healthcare databases. The score should consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the number of practices offering asthma-specific services, the adoption rate of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. It would also factor in patient satisfaction surveys, hospitalization rates for asthma, and the prevalence of asthma in the local population.

The analysis would also delve into the demographics of the patient population. Are there specific age groups or ethnic groups disproportionately affected by asthma in Steens? Understanding these demographic factors can help identify areas where targeted interventions are needed. For example, children with asthma might benefit from school-based asthma management programs, while elderly patients might require assistance with medication adherence.

The effectiveness of asthma management also relies on the availability of ancillary services. This includes access to respiratory therapists, who can provide specialized care and education on breathing techniques. It also includes access to pharmacies that stock asthma medications and offer medication counseling. The presence of these supporting services within the 39766 ZIP code contributes to the overall quality of asthma care.

The overall Asthma Score for Steens, Mississippi, is likely to be influenced by the challenges inherent in a rural setting. The limited number of healthcare providers, the potential for geographical barriers, and the need for improved access to mental health resources all contribute to the complexity of the situation. However, the adoption of telemedicine and the implementation of patient-centered care models can help mitigate these challenges.

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Steens, Mississippi, and to visualize the factors impacting asthma management, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can visually represent the distribution of healthcare providers, the location of pharmacies and mental health services, and the demographic characteristics of the population. They can also be used to analyze the spatial relationships between these factors and asthma-related health outcomes. By using CartoChrome maps, healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members can gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing asthma patients in Steens and develop targeted interventions to improve their health outcomes.