38868, Shannon, Mississippi Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 38868, Shannon, Mississippi is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.04 percent of the residents in 38868 has some form of health insurance. 37.90 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.99 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 38868 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,743 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 38868. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 880 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 893 health care providers accessible to residents in 38868, Shannon, Mississippi.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in 38868 & Primary Care in Shannon

Analyzing the overall health landscape within ZIP Code 38868, encompassing the area surrounding Shannon, Mississippi, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers various factors, from physician availability to the integration of modern healthcare practices, ultimately aiming to provide an 'Overall Health Score' assessment. The score will be subjective, based on available data and qualitative observations.

The foundation of any health assessment lies in the availability of primary care physicians. Shannon, being a relatively small community, likely faces challenges common to rural areas. Physician-to-patient ratios are crucial. A high ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially poorer health outcomes. Data from state health departments and national organizations like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) will be crucial in determining the specific physician-to-patient ratio within 38868. A ratio significantly higher than the national average would negatively impact the 'Overall Health Score'.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality and accessibility of existing primary care practices are paramount. Identifying standout practices requires research into patient reviews, accreditation status, and the range of services offered. Practices offering extended hours, same-day appointments, and a comprehensive suite of services, including chronic disease management and preventative screenings, contribute positively to the score. Conversely, practices with limited appointment availability or a narrow scope of services would detract from the overall assessment. The presence of specialists within the immediate area or readily accessible through referral networks also plays a role. A lack of specialized care necessitates travel, potentially creating barriers to timely and effective treatment.

The adoption of telemedicine is a significant factor in modern healthcare. Telemedicine, the use of technology to provide healthcare services remotely, can be particularly beneficial in rural areas like Shannon. It can improve access to specialists, facilitate follow-up appointments, and provide mental health services. Practices that actively utilize telemedicine platforms, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring, will receive a positive boost to their 'Overall Health Score'. Conversely, a lack of telemedicine integration suggests a potential lag in adapting to modern healthcare delivery methods.

Mental health resources are a critical component of overall well-being. The availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is crucial. Shannon's 'Overall Health Score' will be significantly impacted by the presence and accessibility of these resources. A community with limited mental health support may experience higher rates of mental illness, substance abuse, and suicide. The analysis will consider the number of mental health professionals, the availability of counseling services, and the presence of support groups or community mental health programs. Partnerships between primary care practices and mental health providers, facilitating integrated care, will be viewed favorably.

The analysis will also consider the demographics of the population served by the healthcare providers in 38868. Factors such as age, socioeconomic status, and prevalence of chronic diseases can influence the specific healthcare needs of the community. Understanding these demographics is crucial for assessing the adequacy and appropriateness of the available healthcare resources. For instance, a community with a large elderly population would benefit from practices specializing in geriatric care.

The presence of community health initiatives and outreach programs also contributes to the 'Overall Health Score'. These initiatives, such as health screenings, educational programs, and support groups, play a vital role in promoting preventative care and improving overall community health. The analysis will consider the existence and effectiveness of such programs, assessing their impact on the health and well-being of the residents of Shannon and the surrounding area.

Another crucial aspect is the affordability of healthcare services. The analysis will take into account the acceptance of various insurance plans, the availability of financial assistance programs, and the overall cost of care. A community with affordable healthcare services, coupled with readily available financial assistance, will receive a higher score. Conversely, a community where healthcare is expensive and inaccessible due to financial constraints will see a reduction in its 'Overall Health Score'.

The integration of electronic health records (EHRs) is another important factor. EHRs streamline patient care by providing healthcare providers with immediate access to a patient's medical history, medications, and test results. Practices that have fully implemented EHRs will be viewed favorably, while those that rely on paper-based records may be seen as less efficient and potentially more prone to errors. The analysis will consider the extent to which EHRs are used and the interoperability of these systems.

The 'Overall Health Score' will be a composite measure, weighing the factors discussed above. Each factor will be assigned a weight based on its perceived importance in contributing to the overall health and well-being of the community. The final score will be a subjective assessment, reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape in 38868, with a specific focus on primary care availability in Shannon. It is important to remember that this analysis is a snapshot in time and the healthcare landscape is constantly evolving.

In conclusion, the health of a community is a complex interplay of numerous factors. While this analysis provides a framework for assessing the healthcare landscape in 38868, the specifics of the score depend on the availability of data and the subjective weighting of each factor. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare resources available to the residents of Shannon and the surrounding area.

For a more detailed and visually insightful understanding of the healthcare landscape in 38868, including the geographic distribution of healthcare providers, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps. Their platform can provide a dynamic and data-driven perspective on the availability and accessibility of healthcare resources.