38826, Belden, Mississippi Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 38826, Belden, Mississippi is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.53 percent of the residents in 38826 has some form of health insurance. 26.56 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.74 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 38826 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,446 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 38826. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 608 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,426 health care providers accessible to residents in 38826, Belden, Mississippi.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Belden, Mississippi (ZIP Code 38826)

Analyzing the overall health score for Belden, Mississippi, necessitates a multi-faceted approach, encompassing primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. ZIP Code 38826 serves as the geographic anchor for this analysis, allowing for a focused assessment of the healthcare landscape within this specific community.

**Primary Care Availability:**

The cornerstone of any robust healthcare system is the accessibility of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Belden, assessing primary care availability involves evaluating the number of PCPs practicing within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas, the types of insurance they accept (including Medicare and Medicaid), and their appointment scheduling practices. A scarcity of PCPs can lead to delayed care, increased reliance on emergency rooms for non-emergency issues, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes. Investigating the average wait times for appointments, both for new patients and established patients, is crucial. Longer wait times can indicate a strained system, while shorter wait times may suggest adequate capacity or other factors influencing patient access.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios:**

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric for gauging the adequacy of healthcare resources. It provides a quantifiable measure of the number of physicians available to serve a specific population. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can signal potential challenges in accessing timely and comprehensive care. Researching the physician-to-patient ratio in 38826, and comparing it to state and national averages, is essential. A significantly lower ratio compared to benchmarks would raise concerns about potential healthcare shortages and the impact on residents.

**Standout Practices and Quality of Care:**

Identifying standout medical practices within Belden requires examining factors such as patient satisfaction scores, the range of services offered, the use of technology, and the practice's reputation within the community. Practices with a strong reputation often demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, employing skilled medical professionals and providing comprehensive services. Investigating the accreditation status of local hospitals and clinics, such as those accredited by the Joint Commission, can also provide insights into the quality of care offered. Assessing the availability of specialized services, such as cardiology, dermatology, or endocrinology, is also crucial.

**Telemedicine Adoption:**

The adoption of telemedicine has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas where access to in-person care can be limited. Evaluating the prevalence of telemedicine services in Belden involves determining which practices offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and other telehealth options. The availability of telemedicine can improve access to care, reduce travel time, and provide greater flexibility for patients. Investigating the types of telemedicine platforms used, the range of services offered virtually, and patient satisfaction with telemedicine experiences is important.

**Mental Health Resources:**

Mental health is a critical component of overall health and well-being. Assessing the availability of mental health resources in Belden involves identifying the number of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors practicing in the area. It also includes evaluating the availability of mental health clinics, support groups, and crisis intervention services. Access to mental health care is often a significant challenge in rural communities, and the presence of adequate resources is a key indicator of the overall health score. Investigating the acceptance of insurance by mental health providers, wait times for appointments, and the availability of specialized mental health services, such as addiction treatment, is also essential.

**Specifics and Nuances:**

To provide a truly accurate assessment, the analysis must delve into specific details. For instance, the age and demographics of the population in 38826 should be considered. A community with a large elderly population may have different healthcare needs than one with a younger demographic. The prevalence of chronic diseases, such as diabetes and heart disease, within the community should also be factored in, as this can influence the demand for healthcare services. Examining the socioeconomic status of the residents is important.

**Data Collection and Analysis:**

Gathering data for this analysis requires a multi-pronged approach. Publicly available resources, such as the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), and state health departments, can provide valuable information on physician-to-patient ratios, healthcare facility locations, and other relevant metrics. Online directories, such as those maintained by the American Medical Association (AMA) and other professional organizations, can be used to identify physicians practicing in the area. Patient reviews and testimonials, available on websites such as Healthgrades and Zocdoc, can provide insights into patient satisfaction and the quality of care. Local community organizations and healthcare providers can also be consulted for information on local resources and services.

**Challenges and Limitations:**

It is important to acknowledge the limitations of this analysis. Data availability can vary, and some information may be difficult to obtain. The analysis is based on publicly available data and may not capture all nuances of the healthcare landscape in Belden. Patient privacy concerns can also limit access to certain types of data. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, and the information gathered may become outdated quickly.

**Conclusion:**

Evaluating the overall health score for Belden, Mississippi (ZIP Code 38826) requires a comprehensive assessment of primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. By analyzing these factors, a more complete picture of the healthcare landscape can be created.

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