38746, Gunnison, Mississippi Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 38746, Gunnison, Mississippi is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.37 percent of the residents in 38746 has some form of health insurance. 64.55 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 31.95 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 38746 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 120 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 38746. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 64 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 357 health care providers accessible to residents in 38746, Gunnison, Mississippi.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Gunnison, MS (ZIP Code 38746)

Analyzing the overall health score for Gunnison, Mississippi, specifically focusing on the availability and quality of primary care within the 38746 ZIP code, presents a complex picture. This analysis considers various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape in this community.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of healthcare access. In Gunnison, this ratio is likely a significant challenge. Rural areas often struggle with a shortage of physicians, particularly primary care doctors. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and increased reliance on emergency room services for non-emergency conditions. Without specific data, it's reasonable to assume that the ratio in 38746 is less favorable compared to urban or suburban areas. This scarcity impacts overall health scores negatively.

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive into the local healthcare ecosystem. Are there any clinics or practices that consistently receive positive patient reviews? Do any practices specialize in serving the unique needs of the Gunnison population, such as addressing chronic diseases prevalent in the area? Are there any practices that have earned recognition for their quality of care or patient satisfaction? Such practices, if present, can significantly improve the overall health score by providing high-quality care and acting as a model for other providers. However, the absence of such practices would contribute to a lower score.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. Telemedicine can bridge the gap in access to care, particularly in rural areas where physical access to healthcare providers is limited. The availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals can improve patient convenience, reduce travel burdens, and facilitate more frequent interactions with healthcare providers. The extent to which telemedicine is adopted by practices in 38746 is a key determinant of the overall health score. Practices that have embraced telemedicine likely contribute positively to the score, while those that haven’t may negatively impact it.

The availability of mental health resources is a critical component of overall health. Mental health issues are often under-addressed, particularly in rural communities. Access to psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors is often limited. The presence of local mental health clinics, partnerships with mental health providers in neighboring communities, or the availability of telehealth mental health services are all positive indicators. Conversely, a lack of mental health resources would significantly detract from the overall health score, as it indicates a potential unmet need within the community.

Furthermore, the presence of community health initiatives and programs also contributes to the overall health score. Are there any local programs focused on preventative care, chronic disease management, or health education? The existence of such programs demonstrates a commitment to improving the health of the community and can positively influence the score. The absence of such initiatives would suggest a gap in the healthcare landscape.

To assess the overall health score for Gunnison, MS (38746), a weighted approach is necessary. The physician-to-patient ratio should carry a significant weight, reflecting its fundamental impact on access. The presence of standout practices and the adoption of telemedicine should also be weighted, as they represent opportunities to improve the quality and accessibility of care. The availability of mental health resources should carry a substantial weight, reflecting the importance of mental health in overall well-being. Finally, the presence of community health initiatives should be considered, although perhaps with a lower weight.

Without specific data, it is difficult to provide a precise numerical score. However, based on the likely challenges associated with rural healthcare, the overall health score for Gunnison, MS (38746) is likely to be below average. The shortage of physicians, the potential limitations in telemedicine adoption, and the scarcity of mental health resources are all likely to contribute to a lower score. The presence of any standout practices or community health initiatives would help to mitigate these challenges.

The overall health score is not static. It can be improved through various interventions. Recruiting and retaining physicians, expanding telemedicine capabilities, increasing access to mental health services, and investing in community health programs are all potential strategies. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government is essential to improve the health of the community.

In conclusion, the overall health score for Gunnison, MS (38746) reflects the challenges of providing healthcare in a rural environment. While the specific score requires detailed data, it is likely to be below average due to factors such as physician shortages and limited access to specialized services. Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach that prioritizes access, quality, and the integration of mental health services.

To gain a more visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Gunnison and surrounding areas, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a detailed visual representation of physician locations, healthcare facilities, and other relevant data, allowing for a more comprehensive analysis of healthcare access and availability.