38647, Michigan City, Mississippi Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 38647, Michigan City, Mississippi is 5 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 67.55 percent of the residents in 38647 has some form of health insurance. 59.44 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 8.11 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 38647 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 93 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 38647. An estimate of 0 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 191 health care providers accessible to residents in 38647, Michigan City, Mississippi.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 38647 & Primary Care in Michigan City

This analysis provides an overall health score assessment for two distinct geographical areas: the availability and quality of medical care within ZIP code 38647, and the broader landscape of primary care services in Michigan City. We will examine physician-to-patient ratios, highlight notable practices, assess telemedicine adoption rates, and delve into the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility and quality, ultimately informing residents and stakeholders about the strengths and weaknesses of the existing system.

**ZIP Code 38647: A Localized Perspective**

ZIP code 38647, likely representing a specific community within a larger region, requires a granular approach. To accurately assess the health score, one must consider factors such as the number of practicing physicians, the specialties represented, and the demographics of the population served. Data on physician-to-patient ratios is paramount. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of doctors relative to the population, can lead to longer wait times, reduced access to care, and potential negative health outcomes. Public health departments often maintain this data, which is crucial for this analysis.

The quality of care is another vital aspect. This involves evaluating the accreditation status of local hospitals and clinics, the availability of specialized services (e.g., cardiology, oncology, dermatology), and patient satisfaction scores. Online review platforms, though potentially biased, can provide insights into patient experiences, highlighting both positive and negative aspects of local practices. Furthermore, examining the prevalence of chronic diseases within the ZIP code can help identify areas where preventative care and disease management programs are needed.

Standout practices within 38647 deserve specific recognition. This could involve identifying clinics that excel in patient-centered care, those that have adopted innovative technologies, or those that demonstrate a commitment to community outreach. Highlighting these practices can serve as a model for other providers and encourage best practices across the region. The existence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or other safety-net providers is also a critical factor, as they often serve vulnerable populations.

Telemedicine adoption within 38647 is another key indicator of healthcare accessibility. Telemedicine offers the potential to overcome geographical barriers and provide convenient access to care, particularly for follow-up appointments, consultations, and mental health services. Assessing the availability of telehealth services, the types of services offered, and the patient adoption rates is essential for understanding the impact of this technology.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in overall health assessments, yet they are integral to well-being. This analysis must include an evaluation of the availability of mental health professionals (psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists) within the ZIP code, the existence of mental health clinics, and the availability of support groups and other community resources. The integration of mental health services into primary care settings is also a positive indicator of a well-coordinated healthcare system.

**Primary Care in Michigan City: A Broader View**

Michigan City, as a larger geographical area, requires a broader analysis of primary care availability. This involves examining the overall physician-to-patient ratio for primary care physicians (PCPs), which is a critical indicator of access to preventative care and chronic disease management. A shortage of PCPs can lead to increased reliance on emergency room visits for non-emergency conditions, resulting in higher healthcare costs and poorer health outcomes.

The distribution of PCPs across Michigan City is another important consideration. Are primary care services evenly distributed throughout the city, or are there underserved areas with limited access? This analysis should identify areas with physician shortages and assess the impact of these shortages on the local population. Geographic information systems (GIS) can be used to map the distribution of PCPs and identify areas with limited access.

The quality of primary care services is also a key factor. This involves assessing the accreditation status of local hospitals and clinics, the adoption of electronic health records (EHRs), and the use of evidence-based clinical guidelines. The patient-centered medical home (PCMH) model, which emphasizes coordinated, comprehensive, and patient-focused care, is a positive indicator of quality.

Standout primary care practices in Michigan City should be highlighted. This could involve identifying practices that excel in patient satisfaction, those that have implemented innovative care models, or those that have demonstrated improvements in patient outcomes. Recognizing these practices can serve as a model for others and encourage the adoption of best practices.

Telemedicine adoption in Michigan City’s primary care practices is a significant factor in determining the health score. The availability of telehealth services, the types of services offered (e.g., virtual visits, remote monitoring), and the patient adoption rates are crucial indicators of access to care. The integration of telehealth into primary care can improve convenience, reduce wait times, and enhance patient engagement.

The availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting is also crucial. The integration of mental health services into primary care can improve access to care, reduce stigma, and promote early intervention. Assessing the availability of mental health professionals within primary care practices, the use of screening tools for mental health conditions, and the availability of referrals to specialized mental health services are vital components of this analysis.

**Conclusion**

Assessing the overall health score requires a multifaceted approach, considering physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of care, the adoption of innovative technologies, and the availability of mental health resources. Both ZIP code 38647 and Michigan City face unique challenges and opportunities in providing accessible, high-quality healthcare. A comprehensive analysis of these factors is essential for understanding the current state of healthcare and identifying areas for improvement.

To further explore the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, physician density, and access to care within the region, we recommend utilizing **CartoChrome maps**. These maps can provide a visual representation of the data, allowing for a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape and facilitating data-driven decision-making.