39144, Pattison, Mississippi COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 39144, Pattison, Mississippi is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 78.72 percent of the residents in 39144 has some form of health insurance. 69.79 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 16.88 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 39144 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 264 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39144. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 219 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 44 health care providers accessible to residents in 39144, Pattison, Mississippi.

## COPD Score Analysis: Pattison, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39144)

Analyzing the COPD landscape in Pattison, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39144) requires a nuanced approach, considering the intersection of physician availability, healthcare infrastructure, and patient needs. This analysis will construct a hypothetical “COPD Score,” a composite metric reflecting the accessibility and quality of care for individuals managing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease within this specific geographic area. The score will consider factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components of effective COPD management.

Pattison, a small community, likely faces challenges common to rural areas in Mississippi. The primary hurdle is often limited access to healthcare providers, particularly primary care physicians. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A high ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, directly impacts appointment availability, follow-up care, and the overall continuity of care for COPD patients. National averages provide a benchmark, but a significantly higher ratio in Pattison would negatively affect the COPD Score. This scarcity necessitates patients traveling to larger towns or cities for specialized care, adding to the burden of managing a chronic illness.

Primary care availability is the cornerstone of COPD management. Regular check-ups, medication management, and early intervention are vital. The presence of a robust primary care network in Pattison is therefore crucial. Assessing the number of primary care clinics, their hours of operation, and their acceptance of various insurance plans provides a snapshot of accessibility. The existence of nurse practitioners and physician assistants, who often supplement the work of primary care physicians, would also be considered favorably.

Identifying "standout practices" requires delving deeper. This includes assessing the quality of care offered by existing clinics. Do any practices actively participate in COPD-specific programs, such as pulmonary rehabilitation or smoking cessation programs? Are they equipped with the necessary diagnostic tools, like spirometry, to accurately assess lung function? Do they employ certified respiratory therapists? Practices demonstrating a commitment to comprehensive COPD care, through specialized programs and skilled staff, would significantly boost the COPD Score.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly relevant, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine offers a potential solution to address the geographical barriers to care. The availability of virtual consultations with pulmonologists or primary care physicians can improve access to specialized expertise and medication management. The presence of telehealth infrastructure, including readily available internet access and patient-friendly platforms, is essential for successful telemedicine implementation. Practices actively utilizing telemedicine would receive a higher score, reflecting their commitment to innovative care delivery.

The often-overlooked aspect of COPD management is mental health. COPD can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is therefore critical. The presence of mental health services within primary care practices or readily accessible in the community would positively influence the COPD Score. Integrated mental health services contribute to a holistic approach to patient care, addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of the disease.

To create a hypothetical COPD Score, we would need to gather specific data. We would assign weighted values to each factor. For example, physician-to-patient ratio might account for 25% of the score, primary care availability 20%, standout practices 25%, telemedicine adoption 15%, and mental health resources 15%. Each factor would be assessed based on available data, assigning a numerical value. The sum of these weighted values would then determine the overall COPD Score for Pattison.

Based on the likely characteristics of a rural community like Pattison, the initial COPD Score might be relatively low. Limited physician availability, the absence of specialized COPD programs, and potentially limited telemedicine adoption would likely contribute to a lower score. However, even with these challenges, the presence of dedicated primary care providers, the potential for telemedicine expansion, and the availability of mental health services could positively influence the score.

Improving the COPD Score in Pattison requires a multi-pronged approach. Recruiting more primary care physicians and specialists, promoting the adoption of telemedicine, establishing COPD-specific programs, and increasing access to mental health resources are all essential steps. Community initiatives, such as health education campaigns and support groups, can also play a vital role in empowering patients and improving their quality of life.

This analysis highlights the complexities of providing healthcare in a rural setting. While challenges exist, innovative solutions, such as telemedicine and community-based programs, can help bridge the gaps and improve the care available to COPD patients in Pattison and similar communities. The ultimate goal is to create a healthcare environment that supports patients in managing their chronic illness and living fulfilling lives.

To visualize the healthcare landscape of Pattison, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39144) and surrounding areas, including physician locations, clinic locations, and potential areas for telemedicine expansion, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. This tool can provide a visual representation of the data discussed, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of the COPD care landscape.