39771, Walthall, Mississippi Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 39771, Walthall, Mississippi is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 39771 has some form of health insurance. 60.17 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 55.93 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 39771 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 31 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39771. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 39 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 118 health care providers accessible to residents in 39771, Walthall, Mississippi.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 39771 and Primary Care in Walthall County

Analyzing healthcare access and quality, particularly concerning asthma management, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis focuses on ZIP code 39771 and Walthall County, Mississippi, evaluating physician availability, practice characteristics, and resource accessibility to formulate an “Asthma Score.” This score, though not a singular, quantifiable number, represents a holistic assessment of the healthcare landscape for individuals with asthma within this specific geographical area.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Primary Care Availability:**

Walthall County, a rural area, likely faces challenges related to physician density. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A low ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, inherently limits access to care, especially for specialized needs like asthma management. While precise figures fluctuate, rural areas often struggle to attract and retain physicians, creating a potential bottleneck in the healthcare system. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced opportunities for preventative care, and increased reliance on emergency room visits for asthma exacerbations.

Primary care availability is the cornerstone of effective asthma management. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients, providing initial diagnoses, ongoing monitoring, and medication management. The availability of PCPs in Walthall County, and specifically within the 39771 ZIP code, significantly impacts the Asthma Score. A strong network of accessible PCPs, coupled with the availability of specialists like pulmonologists or allergists, contributes positively to the score. Conversely, a limited primary care network necessitates patients seeking care further afield, adding logistical and financial burdens.

**Standout Practices and Their Impact:**

Identifying standout practices within the 39771 ZIP code and the broader Walthall County is crucial. These practices, potentially excelling in asthma care, can significantly influence the overall Asthma Score. Factors to consider include:

* **Asthma-Specific Protocols:** Practices that implement standardized asthma management protocols, including regular spirometry testing, asthma action plans, and patient education, demonstrate a commitment to quality care.
* **Patient Education Programs:** Comprehensive patient education programs, empowering patients to self-manage their condition, are essential. These programs improve patient adherence to treatment plans and reduce the frequency of asthma attacks.
* **Staff Training:** Practices with well-trained staff, including nurses and medical assistants, who are knowledgeable about asthma and can provide effective support, contribute to a higher score.
* **Accessibility and Appointment Availability:** Practices that offer convenient appointment scheduling, including same-day or next-day appointments for urgent needs, enhance patient access to care.
* **Insurance Acceptance:** Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicaid and Medicare, ensure affordability and access for a broader patient population.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Role:**

Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, has the potential to significantly improve asthma management, particularly in rural areas like Walthall County. The adoption of telemedicine by practices in the 39771 ZIP code can positively influence the Asthma Score. Telemedicine offers several advantages:

* **Increased Access to Specialists:** Telemedicine allows patients to consult with pulmonologists or allergists who may not be physically located in the area.
* **Remote Monitoring:** Telemedicine enables remote monitoring of patients' asthma symptoms, allowing physicians to intervene proactively and adjust treatment plans as needed.
* **Virtual Education and Support:** Telemedicine facilitates virtual asthma education sessions and support groups, empowering patients to manage their condition effectively.
* **Reduced Travel Burden:** Telemedicine eliminates the need for patients to travel long distances for appointments, saving time and reducing transportation costs.

The extent of telemedicine adoption, including the types of services offered and the technology infrastructure available, is a critical factor in assessing the Asthma Score.

**Mental Health Resources and Asthma:**

The link between asthma and mental health is increasingly recognized. Anxiety and depression can exacerbate asthma symptoms, while chronic asthma can contribute to mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources within the 39771 ZIP code and Walthall County is a crucial component of the Asthma Score.

* **Integration of Mental Health Services:** Practices that integrate mental health services into their asthma care, such as offering on-site counseling or referrals to mental health professionals, demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care.
* **Access to Mental Health Professionals:** The availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists in the area is essential for providing timely and effective mental health support.
* **Awareness and Screening:** Practices that routinely screen patients for anxiety and depression and provide appropriate referrals contribute to a higher Asthma Score.
* **Support Groups and Educational Resources:** The availability of asthma-specific support groups and educational resources that address the mental health aspects of the condition can significantly benefit patients.

**Conclusion:**

The Asthma Score for doctors in ZIP code 39771 and primary care availability in Walthall County is a complex assessment. It considers physician-to-patient ratios, primary care accessibility, the presence of standout practices with asthma-specific protocols, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. A higher score reflects a healthcare environment that prioritizes comprehensive, accessible, and patient-centered asthma care. Conversely, a lower score indicates areas for improvement, such as addressing physician shortages, expanding telemedicine capabilities, and integrating mental health services.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Walthall County and ZIP code 39771, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and resource availability, explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful tool for visualizing and analyzing healthcare data, enabling a deeper understanding of access to care and identifying areas for improvement.