38920, Cascilla, Mississippi COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 38920, Cascilla, Mississippi is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.34 percent of the residents in 38920 has some form of health insurance. 62.87 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 41.80 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 38920 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 131 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 38920. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 112 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 541 health care providers accessible to residents in 38920, Cascilla, Mississippi.

## COPD Score Analysis: Cascilla, Mississippi (ZIP Code 38920)

Cascilla, Mississippi, nestled in the heart of the Mississippi Delta, presents a unique challenge when analyzing healthcare accessibility, particularly concerning Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). This analysis, framed as a 'COPD Score' assessment, will delve into the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) within ZIP code 38920, assess the physician-to-patient ratios, explore the adoption of telemedicine, and examine the availability of mental health resources, all critical factors influencing COPD management.

The foundation of effective COPD care rests upon accessible primary care. In Cascilla, the availability of PCPs is a significant hurdle. The rural nature of the area, coupled with potential physician shortages, likely translates to a lower physician-to-patient ratio compared to more urban settings. This scarcity necessitates patients travel longer distances for routine check-ups, exacerbating the challenges faced by individuals with COPD, whose mobility and breathing are often compromised. The COPD Score for this component would, therefore, be relatively low, reflecting the limited access.

Identifying specific practices within the Cascilla area is crucial. While a comprehensive list isn't provided here, it's essential to pinpoint the practices offering primary care services. A standout practice might be one that demonstrates a commitment to COPD management. This could involve employing respiratory therapists, offering pulmonary function testing (PFT) on-site, or actively participating in COPD-focused educational programs for patients. These practices deserve recognition and contribute positively to the COPD Score, potentially offsetting some of the negative impacts of limited overall availability.

Telemedicine represents a potential game-changer for COPD patients in Cascilla. Remote monitoring of vital signs, virtual consultations, and medication management through telehealth platforms can significantly improve care accessibility. The adoption rate of telemedicine by local primary care practices is a key factor in the COPD Score. Practices actively utilizing telemedicine, particularly for COPD-specific monitoring and education, would receive a higher score, reflecting their proactive approach to patient care. The ability to connect patients with specialists remotely can also be a significant advantage, especially in a rural area where access to specialized pulmonary care might be limited.

The often-overlooked aspect of COPD management is mental health. Living with COPD can be incredibly challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The availability of mental health resources, including therapists, counselors, and support groups, is crucial for comprehensive COPD care. The COPD Score must factor in the presence of mental health services within the community or readily accessible through referral networks. Practices that integrate mental health screening and referral processes into their COPD management protocols would contribute positively to the overall score. A lack of such resources would significantly diminish the COPD Score, highlighting a critical gap in care.

Assessing the quality of care involves evaluating several factors. For example, the presence of a comprehensive COPD management plan for each patient is essential. This plan should include regular pulmonary function tests, medication reviews, smoking cessation counseling (if applicable), and education on managing exacerbations. The COPD Score should reflect the degree to which local practices adhere to established COPD guidelines and best practices. Data on patient outcomes, such as hospitalization rates and exacerbation frequency, could further refine the score.

The demographic profile of Cascilla also plays a significant role. The prevalence of COPD often correlates with factors like age, smoking history, and socioeconomic status. Understanding the specific demographics of the community helps tailor healthcare interventions. For example, targeted smoking cessation programs or initiatives to address socioeconomic barriers to care can improve outcomes. The COPD Score should consider the proactive efforts made to address the unique needs of the population.

The impact of social determinants of health (SDOH) must be considered. Factors such as transportation access, housing stability, and food security significantly influence a patient's ability to manage their COPD. Practices that actively address SDOH challenges or collaborate with community organizations to provide support would receive a higher COPD Score. This holistic approach to care is essential for improving outcomes in a rural community like Cascilla.

The overall COPD Score for Cascilla, Mississippi (ZIP Code 38920), would likely reflect the challenges inherent in rural healthcare. Limited PCP availability, potential physician shortages, and the need for robust telemedicine adoption would likely result in a lower initial score. However, the score could be improved by identifying standout practices that prioritize COPD management, integrate telemedicine, and address mental health needs. Proactive efforts to address SDOH and tailor care to the community's demographics are essential for raising the score and improving patient outcomes.

This analysis provides a framework for understanding the complex healthcare landscape in Cascilla. A comprehensive assessment would require detailed data collection and analysis, including physician surveys, patient interviews, and a review of medical records. The goal is to identify areas for improvement and develop strategies to enhance COPD care accessibility and quality.

The information provided is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Cascilla, including the location of primary care practices, the distribution of COPD prevalence, and the availability of resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers powerful mapping and data visualization tools that can help you analyze and understand the complexities of healthcare access and delivery in your community.