38631, Friars Point, Mississippi Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 38631, Friars Point, Mississippi is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.01 percent of the residents in 38631 has some form of health insurance. 58.75 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 32.17 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 38631 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 477 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 38631. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 98 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 262 health care providers accessible to residents in 38631, Friars Point, Mississippi.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Friars Point, MS (ZIP Code 38631)

Analyzing the overall health landscape of Friars Point, Mississippi (ZIP code 38631) requires a multifaceted approach, considering factors beyond simple physician counts. This analysis will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and examine the availability of mental health resources. We will synthesize this information to arrive at an "Overall Health Score" for the community.

Friars Point, a small town in Coahoma County, likely faces challenges common to rural areas, including limited access to healthcare professionals and resources. The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial indicator. While precise data on the exact number of physicians practicing solely within the 38631 ZIP code is difficult to obtain without proprietary datasets, publicly available information, such as that from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), can provide estimates and comparisons. A low physician-to-patient ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, signals potential difficulties in accessing timely medical care. Residents may face longer wait times for appointments, increased travel distances to see a physician, and potential gaps in preventative care.

The presence of primary care physicians is of paramount importance. Primary care serves as the cornerstone of a healthy community, providing preventative care, managing chronic conditions, and coordinating specialist referrals when needed. The availability of primary care in Friars Point is a critical factor in determining the overall health score. The existence of a well-staffed and accessible primary care practice is a significant positive. Conversely, a scarcity of primary care providers negatively impacts the score, potentially leading to increased emergency room visits for conditions that could have been managed in a primary care setting.

Identifying standout practices within the community is vital. These practices may excel in patient care, offer specialized services, or demonstrate a commitment to community health. Factors to consider include patient satisfaction scores (if available), the range of services offered (e.g., chronic disease management, women's health, pediatric care), and the adoption of innovative technologies. A practice that actively engages with the community through outreach programs or health education initiatives would also be considered a positive contributor to the overall health score.

Telemedicine adoption has the potential to significantly improve healthcare access in rural areas like Friars Point. Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, can bridge geographical barriers and connect patients with specialists who may not be readily available locally. The extent of telemedicine adoption within the community is a key factor. Practices that offer telehealth consultations, remote monitoring of patients with chronic conditions, and virtual mental health services will contribute positively to the health score. Conversely, a lack of telemedicine adoption limits access and negatively impacts the score.

Mental health resources are an essential component of overall health. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed therapists, is critical for addressing mental health concerns within the community. Access to mental health services in Friars Point is a significant factor. A community with limited mental health resources will receive a lower health score. The presence of mental health clinics, therapists, and support groups, along with the integration of mental health services into primary care settings, will positively impact the score.

Synthesizing these factors, we can begin to formulate an "Overall Health Score" for Friars Point. The score is not a single number but a holistic assessment based on the interplay of these key elements. A community with a high physician-to-patient ratio, limited primary care availability, a lack of standout practices, minimal telemedicine adoption, and scarce mental health resources would receive a lower score. This indicates significant challenges in accessing quality healthcare. Conversely, a community with a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, robust primary care services, innovative practices, widespread telemedicine adoption, and ample mental health resources would receive a higher score, reflecting a healthier environment.

The score is dynamic and can change over time. Changes in the number of physicians, the expansion of healthcare services, or the adoption of new technologies can all impact the overall health score. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are necessary to assess the health needs of the community and to identify areas for improvement. Data-driven insights are crucial for informing healthcare planning and resource allocation.

The challenges faced by Friars Point are not unique to this community. Many rural areas across the United States grapple with similar issues. Addressing these challenges requires a collaborative approach involving healthcare providers, community organizations, and policymakers. Strategies to improve healthcare access in Friars Point might include recruiting more physicians, expanding telemedicine services, supporting community health initiatives, and increasing access to mental health resources.

In conclusion, the "Overall Health Score" for Friars Point, MS (38631) is a complex assessment influenced by multiple factors. While a precise score is difficult to calculate without comprehensive, proprietary data, the analysis highlights the critical areas that impact the community's health.