38924, Cruger, Mississippi COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 38924, Cruger, Mississippi is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.48 percent of the residents in 38924 has some form of health insurance. 49.21 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.90 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 38924 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 33 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 38924. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 87 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 249 health care providers accessible to residents in 38924, Cruger, Mississippi.

## COPD Score Analysis: Cruger, Mississippi (ZIP Code 38924)

The following analysis provides a COPD score assessment for physicians practicing within ZIP code 38924, encompassing the town of Cruger, Mississippi. This score considers factors crucial for COPD management, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health support, all vital for patients navigating this chronic respiratory illness. The analysis aims to offer insights into the accessibility and quality of care available in this specific geographical area.

Cruger, a small community in Mississippi, likely faces challenges common to rural areas regarding healthcare access. Population density, economic factors, and the availability of specialized medical services all play a role in shaping the COPD care landscape. A comprehensive evaluation considers these elements to paint a realistic picture of the resources available to COPD patients.

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

Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio in Cruger requires access to up-to-the-minute data, which is often proprietary. However, we can make informed estimations based on publicly available information and national averages. Rural areas often experience a shortage of primary care physicians (PCPs), who are the first point of contact for COPD patients. This scarcity can lead to delayed diagnoses, reduced access to preventative care, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes. The availability of PCPs is a critical factor in the overall COPD score.

Primary care availability in Cruger is likely constrained. The presence of a local clinic or small hospital would be a positive factor, but the number of physicians practicing within the ZIP code is a key indicator. A low physician-to-patient ratio would negatively impact the COPD score, indicating potential difficulties in securing timely appointments and consistent care.

**Standout Practices & Their Characteristics:**

Identifying “standout practices” necessitates a detailed review of local healthcare providers. This involves assessing their services, patient reviews, and specializations. Practices that prioritize COPD management would score higher. This could include practices with pulmonologists on staff, respiratory therapists, or dedicated COPD clinics.

Key indicators of a practice’s commitment to COPD care include:

* **Pulmonary Specialists:** The presence of pulmonologists is a significant positive. These specialists possess in-depth knowledge of respiratory diseases and can provide advanced diagnostic and treatment options.
* **Respiratory Therapists:** Respiratory therapists are essential for patient education, pulmonary rehabilitation, and managing breathing difficulties.
* **Comprehensive Pulmonary Function Testing:** Access to advanced diagnostic tools, such as spirometry, is crucial for accurate diagnosis and monitoring of COPD.
* **Patient Education Programs:** Practices that offer educational resources on COPD management, including smoking cessation programs, medication adherence, and breathing techniques, enhance the COPD score.
* **Care Coordination:** Effective care coordination between PCPs, specialists, and other healthcare providers is critical for comprehensive COPD management.

**Telemedicine Adoption & Its Impact:**

Telemedicine offers a valuable tool for improving access to care, especially in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by local practices would significantly improve the COPD score. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and facilitating more frequent check-ups.

Telemedicine applications relevant to COPD care include:

* **Virtual Consultations:** Remote consultations with PCPs and specialists can improve access to care and facilitate timely interventions.
* **Remote Monitoring:** Telemetry devices that track vital signs and lung function can help monitor patients' conditions and identify potential exacerbations.
* **Medication Management:** Telemedicine can facilitate medication refills and provide support for patients managing their medications.
* **Pulmonary Rehabilitation:** Telemedicine can be used to deliver pulmonary rehabilitation programs remotely, improving access to this essential service.

**Mental Health Resources & Their Integration:**

COPD can significantly impact mental health. Patients often experience anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The availability of mental health resources is a crucial factor in the COPD score. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care plans receive a higher score.

Factors to consider include:

* **Mental Health Professionals:** The presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, or licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs) within the practice or through referral networks is essential.
* **Counseling Services:** Access to individual or group counseling sessions can help patients cope with the emotional challenges of COPD.
* **Support Groups:** Support groups provide a valuable forum for patients to share experiences, learn coping strategies, and reduce feelings of isolation.
* **Medication Management:** Access to medication management for mental health conditions is essential for patients experiencing anxiety or depression.

**Overall COPD Score & Conclusion:**

Based on the factors discussed, a comprehensive COPD score for Cruger, Mississippi, would likely be impacted by the challenges of rural healthcare. The score would be affected by physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized services, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. A low score could indicate potential difficulties in accessing timely, comprehensive COPD care.

To accurately assess the COPD score, a detailed investigation into the specific healthcare providers in the area is needed. This would involve gathering information on their services, staffing, and technological capabilities.

**Actionable Insights with CartoChrome Maps:**

For a more detailed understanding of the healthcare landscape in Cruger and surrounding areas, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a visual representation of healthcare resources, including physician locations, clinic services, and hospital facilities. This allows for a more comprehensive understanding of the accessibility and availability of care, which is essential for COPD patients. Explore the power of CartoChrome maps to visualize the healthcare landscape and empower informed decisions about your health.