38925, Duck Hill, Mississippi Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 38925, Duck Hill, Mississippi is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.72 percent of the residents in 38925 has some form of health insurance. 44.06 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.93 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 38925 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 384 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 38925. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 509 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 461 health care providers accessible to residents in 38925, Duck Hill, Mississippi.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Duck Hill, Mississippi (ZIP Code 38925)

Analyzing the overall health score for Duck Hill, Mississippi (ZIP code 38925) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. Due to the limited resources and population size of Duck Hill, the overall health score is likely to be significantly impacted by external factors, including the availability of healthcare in nearby towns and the broader regional infrastructure.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of healthcare access. In rural areas like Duck Hill, this ratio often suffers. The national average of physicians per capita is frequently not met, leading to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potential delays in diagnosis and treatment. Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio for Duck Hill requires obtaining data from the Mississippi State Board of Medical Licensure and the U.S. Census Bureau. However, given the town's small population and the likelihood of limited medical professionals residing directly within the ZIP code, it is highly probable that the ratio is unfavorable, suggesting a challenge in accessing primary care.

The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) directly influences the overall health score. Primary care serves as the cornerstone of preventative medicine, managing chronic conditions, and coordinating specialized care when needed. A lack of PCPs means residents may delay seeking medical attention, leading to more severe health problems and higher healthcare costs in the long run. The presence of a local clinic or medical practice is crucial. If Duck Hill has a dedicated primary care clinic, its operational hours, the number of physicians on staff, and the range of services offered are all vital factors. Without a local clinic, residents are forced to travel to neighboring towns like Winona or Greenwood for primary care, adding to the access barriers.

Identifying standout medical practices requires examining the quality of care, patient satisfaction, and the range of services offered. This involves reviewing patient reviews, assessing the clinic's accreditation status, and evaluating the physicians' qualifications and experience. In a small town, the existence of a well-regarded practice can significantly improve the overall health score. Such a practice would likely offer a comprehensive range of services, including routine checkups, immunizations, and chronic disease management. However, the limited population in Duck Hill may preclude the presence of multiple practices, and the overall quality of care will be significantly influenced by the resources available to the existing medical professionals.

Telemedicine has the potential to improve healthcare access in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by local practices can help overcome geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with physicians remotely. This is especially beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and addressing minor health concerns. The availability of telemedicine services in Duck Hill can be assessed by checking the websites of local clinics or contacting them directly. If telemedicine is available, the types of services offered, the technology used, and the ease of access are all important factors. However, the effectiveness of telemedicine also depends on the patients' access to reliable internet and the physicians' comfort level with the technology.

Mental health resources are a crucial component of overall health. The availability of mental health services, including psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors, is essential for addressing mental health issues and promoting well-being. Rural areas often face a shortage of mental health professionals, making it difficult for residents to access the care they need. Assessing the availability of mental health resources in Duck Hill involves determining if there are any mental health professionals practicing locally or if residents must travel to neighboring towns for care. The presence of community mental health centers, support groups, and crisis intervention services also contributes to the overall health score.

The overall health score for Duck Hill, Mississippi (ZIP code 38925) is likely to be negatively impacted by the factors discussed. The potential for a poor physician-to-patient ratio, the limited availability of primary care, and the possible scarcity of mental health resources all contribute to a lower score. The absence of standout medical practices and the reliance on external healthcare resources further exacerbate the challenges. The adoption of telemedicine could offer some improvement, but its effectiveness depends on the availability of technology and the willingness of both patients and physicians to use it.

Improving the overall health score for Duck Hill requires a multi-pronged approach. Recruiting and retaining healthcare professionals, expanding access to primary care, and increasing the availability of mental health resources are crucial steps. Promoting the adoption of telemedicine and supporting community health initiatives can also help. However, the limitations imposed by the town's size and location mean that improvements will require regional collaboration and investment.

In conclusion, the overall health score for Duck Hill, Mississippi (ZIP code 38925) is likely to be low due to the challenges faced by rural communities. The factors influencing this score highlight the need for targeted interventions to improve healthcare access and promote the well-being of the residents.

For a more comprehensive understanding of healthcare access in Duck Hill and surrounding areas, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide detailed visualizations of healthcare resources, allowing you to analyze physician density, clinic locations, and the availability of various medical services. This can help you identify areas with limited access and develop strategies to improve healthcare outcomes.