38740, Duncan, Mississippi Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 38740, Duncan, Mississippi is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 72.17 percent of the residents in 38740 has some form of health insurance. 40.64 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 37.44 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 38740 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 59 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 38740. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 32 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 169 health care providers accessible to residents in 38740, Duncan, Mississippi.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Duncan, Mississippi (ZIP Code 38740)

Evaluating the overall health landscape of Duncan, Mississippi, necessitates a comprehensive assessment of available healthcare resources, including primary care physician accessibility, mental health provisions, and the integration of modern technologies like telemedicine. This analysis will provide an 'Overall Health Score' ranking, considering various factors specific to the region.

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

A critical indicator of community health is the physician-to-patient ratio. In ZIP code 38740, the availability of primary care physicians is a crucial determinant of the overall health score. Data from the Mississippi State Department of Health, along with information from healthcare provider directories, must be analyzed to determine the number of practicing primary care physicians (PCPs) within the area. This number is then compared to the estimated population of Duncan to calculate the ratio. A lower ratio, meaning more patients per physician, indicates potential challenges in accessing timely and routine medical care. This can lead to delayed diagnoses, poorer management of chronic conditions, and increased reliance on emergency room services.

The physical accessibility of primary care clinics is also a key consideration. Are clinics located within reasonable distances for residents, or are transportation barriers a significant impediment? The concentration of primary care practices within Duncan, and their geographic distribution relative to the population, are vital elements in the analysis. Rural areas often face challenges in recruiting and retaining physicians, which can negatively impact the physician-to-patient ratio. The analysis will consider the presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or other safety-net providers that serve vulnerable populations.

**Standout Practices and Healthcare Quality:**

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors beyond simple physician availability. This includes the quality of care provided, patient satisfaction levels, and the range of services offered. Reviews from patients, data from health insurance providers, and performance metrics tracked by healthcare organizations can be used to assess the quality of care. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to preventative care, chronic disease management, and patient education are likely to receive higher ratings.

Furthermore, the presence of specialized services, such as diabetes education programs, cardiac rehabilitation, or women's health clinics, contributes to the overall health score. Practices that are actively involved in community outreach and health promotion initiatives also reflect a commitment to the well-being of the population. Accreditation from recognized healthcare organizations, such as the Joint Commission, can also indicate a higher standard of care.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Technological Integration:**

The adoption of telemedicine is a critical aspect of modern healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas like Duncan. Telemedicine can improve access to care by allowing patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and addressing geographical limitations. The analysis will assess the extent to which primary care practices in the area offer telemedicine services, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring of vital signs, and electronic prescription refills.

The availability of reliable internet access is a prerequisite for effective telemedicine implementation. The analysis will consider the level of internet connectivity within the community and the potential impact of connectivity gaps on telemedicine adoption. Practices that have invested in user-friendly telehealth platforms and provide training to both patients and staff are likely to be more successful in integrating telemedicine into their services.

**Mental Health Resources and Support:**

Mental health is an integral component of overall health. The availability of mental health resources in Duncan is a significant factor in the overall health score. The analysis will investigate the presence of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed clinical social workers, and counselors. The ratio of mental health providers to the population will be evaluated to determine the accessibility of mental health services.

The analysis will also consider the availability of specific mental health programs, such as therapy groups, support groups, and crisis intervention services. The presence of partnerships between primary care practices and mental health providers can facilitate integrated care and improve patient outcomes. The availability of resources for substance abuse treatment and support for individuals with co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders will also be evaluated.

**Overall Health Score Ranking and Conclusion:**

Based on the factors discussed above, an 'Overall Health Score' ranking for Duncan, Mississippi (ZIP code 38740) can be determined. This ranking would be a composite score, reflecting the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of care provided by standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The score would be based on a scale, with higher scores indicating a more robust and accessible healthcare system.

The final score would be accompanied by a summary of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape in Duncan. This summary would highlight areas where improvements are needed, such as increasing the number of primary care physicians, expanding telemedicine services, or enhancing mental health support. It would also identify successful practices and initiatives that can serve as models for other providers.

The analysis will provide a valuable snapshot of the health of the community, enabling residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers to make informed decisions. By understanding the current state of healthcare resources, stakeholders can work together to improve access to care, enhance the quality of services, and promote the overall well-being of the residents of Duncan.

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