38870, Smithville, Mississippi Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 38870, Smithville, Mississippi is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.54 percent of the residents in 38870 has some form of health insurance. 36.79 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 77.66 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 38870 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 823 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 38870. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 446 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 433 health care providers accessible to residents in 38870, Smithville, Mississippi.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Smithville, MS (ZIP Code 38870)

Smithville, Mississippi, nestled in the heart of Monroe County, presents a unique microcosm for evaluating healthcare access and quality. Assessing the overall health score for this community, specifically focusing on physicians within the 38870 ZIP code and the availability of primary care services, requires a multifaceted approach. We'll consider various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape in Smithville.

One of the fundamental metrics in evaluating healthcare access is the physician-to-patient ratio. This figure indicates the number of physicians available to serve a specific population. In Smithville, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. Rural areas often face challenges in attracting and retaining healthcare professionals, potentially leading to a shortage of primary care physicians and specialists. Data from the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and local sources will be crucial in determining the precise ratio for the 38870 ZIP code. A low ratio, indicating a limited number of physicians for the population, suggests potential difficulties in securing timely appointments, increased wait times, and a strain on existing healthcare resources.

Beyond the raw numbers, the types of physicians available are also significant. The presence of a robust primary care network is essential for preventative care, chronic disease management, and overall community well-being. Specialists, such as cardiologists, neurologists, and oncologists, are also vital, although their presence in a rural area might be limited. The availability of specialists often necessitates travel to larger cities, creating a burden for patients and potentially delaying access to crucial care. Understanding the distribution of physician specialties within the 38870 ZIP code is, therefore, a key component of a comprehensive health score analysis.

Identifying standout practices within Smithville provides insights into the quality of care available. These practices might be recognized for their patient-centered approach, innovative treatment methods, or exceptional patient outcomes. Researching local healthcare providers, including their accreditations, patient reviews, and participation in quality improvement programs, is essential. Practices with a strong reputation for patient satisfaction and a commitment to evidence-based medicine contribute positively to the overall health score. Conversely, practices with consistently negative reviews or a history of quality concerns would negatively impact the score.

Telemedicine adoption has emerged as a significant factor in improving healthcare access, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and expanding access to care. Assessing the extent to which Smithville physicians have embraced telemedicine is crucial. This includes examining the types of services offered remotely (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), the technology infrastructure in place, and the patient's experience with these services. Practices that actively utilize telemedicine can potentially mitigate the challenges posed by geographic limitations and improve the overall health score.

Mental health resources are another critical aspect of community well-being. The availability of mental health services, including psychiatrists, therapists, and counseling centers, is essential for addressing mental health challenges. Assessing the number of mental health providers, the types of services offered, and the accessibility of these services within the 38870 ZIP code is vital. Areas with limited mental health resources often experience higher rates of mental illness, substance abuse, and suicide. Therefore, the presence of robust mental health support systems significantly contributes to a positive health score.

Furthermore, the analysis must consider the presence of community health initiatives and programs. These programs, often run by local organizations or healthcare providers, can play a vital role in promoting preventative care, health education, and chronic disease management. Examples include free health screenings, wellness programs, and support groups. The existence of these initiatives demonstrates a commitment to community health and positively influences the overall health score.

The economic and social determinants of health also play a crucial role in this analysis. Factors such as poverty, education levels, access to healthy food, and housing quality can significantly impact health outcomes. While this analysis focuses on healthcare access and quality, understanding the broader social context is essential for a complete picture of community health. Data from the U.S. Census Bureau and other sources will be used to assess these factors and their potential influence on the health score.

Finally, the analysis must consider the impact of any local hospitals or clinics. The presence of a well-equipped hospital or clinic provides a safety net for the community, offering emergency services, inpatient care, and a range of specialized services. The quality of care provided by these facilities, as measured by patient satisfaction, infection rates, and other quality metrics, significantly influences the overall health score. The proximity of these facilities to residents in the 38870 ZIP code is also an important consideration.

In conclusion, evaluating the overall health score for Smithville, MS (ZIP Code 38870) and primary care availability requires a detailed examination of various factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, community health initiatives, and the broader social and economic context all contribute to the overall health score. By carefully analyzing these factors, we can gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Smithville and identify areas for improvement.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in Smithville and gain further insights into physician distribution, healthcare facility locations, and other relevant data, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their maps provide a dynamic and informative way to understand the healthcare resources available in the area.