38685, Waterford, Mississippi Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 38685, Waterford, Mississippi is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.77 percent of the residents in 38685 has some form of health insurance. 50.42 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.70 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 38685 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 94 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 38685. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 462 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,561 health care providers accessible to residents in 38685, Waterford, Mississippi.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Waterford, Mississippi (ZIP Code 38685)

Waterford, Mississippi, nestled within the ZIP code 38685, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access and quality. An "Overall Health Score" analysis requires a multifaceted examination, considering factors from physician density to mental health resources, all within the context of this specific community. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive overview, identifying strengths and weaknesses to inform residents and healthcare providers alike.

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

One of the most crucial metrics is the physician-to-patient ratio. This directly impacts access to care. In a rural area like Waterford, this ratio is likely to be less favorable compared to urban centers. The scarcity of physicians, particularly primary care physicians (PCPs), can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying preventative care and exacerbating existing health conditions. Data analysis would be required to determine the exact ratio within 38685, comparing it to state and national averages. The presence of a local hospital or clinic is vital. Its capacity, staffing levels, and the types of services offered (e.g., internal medicine, family practice) significantly influence the overall health score. The availability of specialists, though less critical than primary care, adds another layer of complexity. Residents often have to travel outside the immediate area for specialized care, adding to the burden of healthcare access.

**Standout Practices and Quality of Care:**

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors. Patient reviews, though subjective, offer valuable insights into patient satisfaction, communication, and the overall patient experience. Accreditation from reputable organizations (e.g., The Joint Commission) indicates a commitment to quality and safety standards. Examining the practices' use of electronic health records (EHRs) is crucial. EHRs facilitate better coordination of care, reduce medical errors, and improve information sharing among providers. Furthermore, analyzing the practices' performance on key quality indicators, such as preventive screening rates (mammograms, colonoscopies) and chronic disease management metrics (diabetes control, blood pressure management), provides a more objective assessment of care quality. These metrics should be assessed to determine if any practices are exceeding expectations.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact:**

Telemedicine, or telehealth, has emerged as a critical tool, especially in rural areas. Its adoption rate among providers in 38685 directly impacts the overall health score. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to access care remotely for consultations, follow-up appointments, and even mental health services. The availability of telehealth platforms, the types of services offered through telemedicine (e.g., primary care, specialist consultations, mental health therapy), and the ease of access for patients (e.g., technology access, insurance coverage) are all critical factors. Assessing the impact of telemedicine on patient outcomes, such as improved medication adherence or reduced hospital readmission rates, is essential.

**Mental Health Resources and Support:**

Mental health is an integral component of overall health. The availability of mental health resources in 38685 is a critical factor. This includes the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors. The accessibility of these professionals, including appointment wait times and insurance acceptance, is paramount. The availability of mental health support groups, community mental health centers, and crisis intervention services also contributes to the overall health score. The prevalence of mental health conditions in the community, along with suicide rates, can be used to determine if the area is meeting the community's needs. Furthermore, the integration of mental health services into primary care settings can improve access and reduce the stigma associated with seeking mental health treatment.

**Community Health Initiatives and Social Determinants of Health:**

Beyond direct medical care, community health initiatives play a vital role. These initiatives might include programs promoting healthy lifestyles (e.g., exercise programs, nutrition education), addressing social determinants of health (e.g., food insecurity, housing instability), and providing resources for vulnerable populations (e.g., the elderly, low-income individuals). The presence and effectiveness of these initiatives significantly impact the overall health score. Social determinants of health, such as poverty, education level, and access to transportation, also profoundly influence health outcomes. Understanding these factors within the context of 38685 is crucial for a comprehensive assessment.

**Data Sources and Limitations:**

This analysis relies on various data sources, including publicly available information from government agencies (e.g., the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), healthcare provider directories, and patient review websites. The accuracy and completeness of this data can vary. The analysis is limited by the availability of data specific to 38685. Some data may be aggregated at the county level, making it difficult to isolate the specific characteristics of Waterford. Furthermore, patient privacy regulations limit access to certain data points. This analysis should be considered a starting point, and further in-depth investigation is required to obtain a truly comprehensive understanding of the health landscape in Waterford.

**Conclusion:**

The Overall Health Score for Waterford, Mississippi (38685), is a complex measure, reflecting the interplay of various factors. The availability of primary care physicians, the adoption of telemedicine, the presence of mental health resources, and the effectiveness of community health initiatives all contribute to the overall picture. While this analysis provides a general overview, a more detailed assessment would require comprehensive data collection and analysis.

**Call to Action:**

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Waterford, Mississippi, and to visualize the data discussed in this analysis, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps and data visualizations offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome provides a powerful platform for mapping and analyzing healthcare data, allowing you to explore physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and other relevant information within the 38685 ZIP code and beyond. Visit their website today to start exploring the healthcare landscape of Waterford.