38839, Derma, Mississippi Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 38839, Derma, Mississippi is 0 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 38839 has some form of health insurance. 58.62 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.86 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 38839 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 38839. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 14 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 155 health care providers accessible to residents in 38839, Derma, Mississippi.

The overall health landscape in Derma, Mississippi, specifically considering the availability and quality of primary care physicians within the 38839 ZIP code, reveals a complex picture. Assessing this landscape requires a multi-faceted approach, moving beyond simple metrics to encompass factors like physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. This comprehensive analysis aims to provide an 'Overall Health Score' assessment, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in this rural community.

One of the most fundamental indicators of health access is the physician-to-patient ratio. In Derma, like many rural areas, this ratio is likely to be a significant challenge. The limited number of primary care physicians serving the population, compared to the national average, probably translates to longer wait times for appointments, potentially reduced access to preventative care, and increased strain on existing medical professionals. This scarcity is a major factor in any 'Overall Health Score' calculation. The exact ratio is difficult to determine without specific, up-to-the-minute data from sources like the Mississippi State Department of Health or the US Department of Health & Human Services. However, the general trend of rural physician shortages is well-documented.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of the available primary care practices is critical. Identifying "standout practices" involves looking at several key elements. Are the practices accepting new patients? What is the range of services offered? Do they have patient satisfaction ratings available? Are they accredited by recognized bodies? Practices that embrace a patient-centered approach, offering comprehensive services, including chronic disease management, preventative screenings, and robust communication channels, would naturally score higher. The presence of electronic health records (EHRs) and the ability to seamlessly share information with specialists are also important considerations. The level of care offered by these practices directly impacts the health outcomes of the community.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial element in assessing healthcare accessibility, especially in a rural setting. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with physicians remotely. This is particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and addressing minor health concerns. The degree to which practices in the 38839 ZIP code have embraced telemedicine, including the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring technologies, and secure patient portals, significantly affects the 'Overall Health Score'. Practices that actively utilize telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to expanding access and improving patient convenience.

Mental health resources are a critical component of overall health, often under-resourced in rural communities. Assessing the availability of mental health services in Derma requires examining the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed therapists, and counselors. Are these professionals accepting new patients? Are there support groups or community mental health programs available? The integration of mental health services within primary care practices, allowing for screening and initial treatment, is particularly beneficial. The presence or absence of these resources significantly influences the 'Overall Health Score'. The scarcity of mental health professionals can lead to delayed diagnoses and treatment, exacerbating existing health issues.

The 'Overall Health Score' for doctors in ZIP Code 38839 and primary care availability in Derma, therefore, is a composite of these factors. A low physician-to-patient ratio, limited access to standout practices, minimal telemedicine adoption, and a scarcity of mental health resources would contribute to a lower score. Conversely, a more favorable physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of high-quality practices, widespread telemedicine adoption, and robust mental health resources would elevate the score. Without specific, up-to-date data, a precise numerical score is impossible. However, the general assessment suggests that Derma likely faces challenges in healthcare access and availability, a common problem in rural areas.

Addressing these challenges requires a multi-pronged approach. Efforts to recruit and retain physicians, expand telemedicine capabilities, and increase access to mental health services are essential. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and government agencies is crucial. The development of innovative models of care, such as mobile health clinics and telehealth hubs, could also improve access.

The 'Overall Health Score' is not a static measure. It should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. This dynamic assessment is vital for understanding the health needs of the community and for guiding efforts to improve healthcare access and quality. The data used to construct this score needs to be regularly updated.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Derma and surrounding areas, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can help visualize physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and other relevant data, providing a spatial context for the 'Overall Health Score' assessment. This visualization can help identify areas of need and inform strategic planning to improve healthcare access and outcomes.