39402, Hattiesburg, Mississippi COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 39402, Hattiesburg, Mississippi is 78 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.70 percent of the residents in 39402 has some form of health insurance. 32.41 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.53 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 39402 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 10,742 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 30 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39402. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 6,870 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 8,591 health care providers accessible to residents in 39402, Hattiesburg, Mississippi.

## COPD Score Analysis: Hattiesburg, MS (ZIP Code 39402)

Hattiesburg, Mississippi, nestled in the heart of the Pine Belt, presents a unique landscape for healthcare delivery, particularly concerning chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care services within the 39402 ZIP code, focusing on factors relevant to COPD management, including physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. The aim is to provide a "COPD Score" perspective, reflecting the accessibility and quality of care for individuals managing this debilitating respiratory illness.

The cornerstone of effective COPD management is consistent access to primary care. The physician-to-patient ratio in Hattiesburg, and specifically within the 39402 ZIP code, is a critical indicator. While precise, publicly available data on this metric for this specific area can be challenging to obtain, general estimates suggest a potential shortage of primary care physicians relative to the population. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced opportunities for preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnosis or treatment for COPD patients. Further investigation is needed to determine the precise ratio and its impact on COPD care access.

Several primary care practices within the 39402 ZIP code likely demonstrate a commitment to COPD care. Identifying "standout practices" requires a nuanced approach, considering factors beyond simple physician numbers. Practices that integrate comprehensive pulmonary function testing (spirometry) into routine checkups, offer patient education programs on COPD management, and actively participate in chronic disease management initiatives deserve recognition. Furthermore, practices that collaborate effectively with pulmonologists and respiratory therapists, facilitating seamless referrals and coordinated care, are vital. These practices often employ dedicated staff to manage COPD patients, providing individualized care plans and ongoing support.

Telemedicine adoption represents a crucial element in improving COPD care accessibility, particularly in areas with physician shortages. Telemedicine allows patients to connect with their physicians remotely, facilitating medication management, symptom monitoring, and follow-up appointments. The 39402 ZIP code's telemedicine adoption rate among primary care practices is a significant factor in the COPD Score assessment. Practices that embrace telehealth technologies, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring tools, can significantly improve patient outcomes, especially for those with mobility limitations or residing in geographically isolated areas. The availability of remote monitoring devices, such as pulse oximeters and peak flow meters, further enhances the effectiveness of telemedicine in COPD management.

The often-overlooked aspect of COPD care is the integration of mental health resources. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Primary care practices that recognize this and offer, or readily refer patients to, mental health services are essential. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in chronic illness management. The COPD Score considers the availability of these resources within the 39402 ZIP code, as integrated mental health support is crucial for comprehensive COPD care.

The quality of COPD care also hinges on the availability of specialized services. The presence of pulmonologists and respiratory therapists within the Hattiesburg area is vital. These specialists provide advanced diagnostic testing, treatment options, and respiratory rehabilitation programs. The COPD Score reflects the accessibility and integration of these specialized services within the primary care network. Effective collaboration between primary care physicians, pulmonologists, and respiratory therapists ensures a holistic approach to COPD management.

Furthermore, the availability of community resources, such as support groups and educational programs, contributes to the overall COPD Score. These resources provide patients with valuable information, peer support, and coping strategies. Primary care practices that actively promote and connect patients with these resources demonstrate a commitment to patient empowerment and improved quality of life. The presence of smoking cessation programs is also crucial, as smoking is a primary risk factor for COPD.

The COPD Score for the 39402 ZIP code is ultimately a composite measure, reflecting the interplay of all these factors. It is not a static number but rather a dynamic assessment that changes as healthcare services evolve. Regularly updating this analysis is critical to track improvements and identify areas needing attention. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the strengths and weaknesses of COPD care within the community, allowing healthcare providers and policymakers to make informed decisions to improve patient outcomes.

In conclusion, the COPD Score for Hattiesburg's 39402 ZIP code is a multifaceted assessment, reflecting the availability, accessibility, and quality of primary care and related resources. While specific data points require further investigation, the analysis highlights the importance of physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health integration, and specialized services. This comprehensive perspective provides a valuable framework for understanding and improving COPD care within the community.

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