38948, Oakland, Mississippi Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 38948, Oakland, Mississippi is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 81.31 percent of the residents in 38948 has some form of health insurance. 36.06 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 48.83 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 38948 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 300 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 38948. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 272 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 183 health care providers accessible to residents in 38948, Oakland, Mississippi.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Oakland, MS (ZIP Code 38948)

This analysis provides an overall health score assessment for the Oakland, Mississippi (ZIP Code 38948) area, focusing on primary care availability and the broader healthcare landscape. We will examine physician-to-patient ratios, identify standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and evaluate the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive picture of the healthcare ecosystem in Oakland and offer insights into its strengths and weaknesses.

Oakland, a small town in Yalobusha County, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. Rural communities often face disparities in access to care compared to urban areas. Factors such as geographic isolation, socioeconomic conditions, and limited infrastructure can significantly impact health outcomes. Understanding these factors is crucial for accurately assessing the overall health score.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Access to Care:**

One of the most critical indicators of healthcare access is the physician-to-patient ratio. This metric reveals the number of physicians available to serve a given population. In rural areas, this ratio is often significantly lower than in metropolitan areas. The lower the ratio, the greater the potential for limited access to primary care physicians, leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced opportunities for preventative care. Data from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and other sources would be necessary to determine the exact physician-to-patient ratio for Oakland. However, it is highly probable that the ratio in Oakland is less favorable than the national average, potentially indicating a shortage of primary care providers.

The implications of a low physician-to-patient ratio are multifaceted. Patients may delay seeking care due to difficulties in securing appointments, leading to the worsening of health conditions. Preventative screenings and routine check-ups may be less frequent, increasing the risk of undiagnosed illnesses. Furthermore, a shortage of primary care physicians can strain the existing healthcare infrastructure, potentially impacting the quality of care and increasing the burden on emergency services.

**Standout Practices and Healthcare Providers:**

Identifying standout practices within Oakland and the surrounding areas is essential for understanding the quality of care available. This requires an evaluation of factors such as patient satisfaction, clinical outcomes, and the range of services offered. Researching local healthcare providers, including their affiliations, accreditations, and patient reviews, is crucial. Determining the presence of any clinics or practices that are recognized for excellence in patient care or specialized services will contribute to the overall health score.

The presence of any federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) in or near Oakland would be a significant positive factor. FQHCs are community-based healthcare providers that offer comprehensive primary care services, often serving underserved populations. They play a vital role in improving access to care and addressing health disparities. The availability of specialists, such as cardiologists, endocrinologists, and other specialists, within a reasonable distance of Oakland is also a crucial factor. Limited access to specialists can necessitate travel to larger cities, creating additional burdens for patients.

**Telemedicine Adoption:**

Telemedicine has the potential to significantly improve healthcare access in rural areas. It allows patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, reducing the need for travel and overcoming geographical barriers. The adoption rate of telemedicine in Oakland is a key indicator of the area's ability to leverage technology to improve healthcare access.

Assessing telemedicine adoption involves evaluating the availability of telehealth services among local providers, the types of services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), and patient utilization rates. Factors such as internet connectivity and digital literacy can impact the successful implementation of telemedicine. Higher adoption rates, coupled with robust internet infrastructure and patient education, would contribute positively to the overall health score.

**Mental Health Resources:**

Mental health is a critical component of overall well-being, and access to mental health services is essential. Rural areas often face challenges in providing adequate mental health resources, including a shortage of psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors. The availability of mental health services in Oakland, including the presence of mental health professionals, counseling services, and support groups, is a crucial aspect of the health score assessment.

Evaluating mental health resources involves determining the availability of mental health providers, the range of services offered (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), and the presence of any community-based mental health programs. The existence of partnerships with local hospitals or mental health organizations would be a positive factor. Access to mental health services, particularly for vulnerable populations, is a significant factor in determining the overall health of a community.

**Overall Health Score and Conclusion:**

Based on the factors discussed above, the overall health score for Oakland, MS (ZIP Code 38948) is likely to be impacted by the challenges common in rural areas. The physician-to-patient ratio is likely to be a key area of concern, potentially indicating limited access to primary care. The availability of standout practices and the adoption of telemedicine will play a crucial role in determining the overall score. The availability of mental health resources is also a crucial factor.

A comprehensive analysis would require detailed data collection and analysis, including information from local healthcare providers, government agencies, and patient surveys. This would provide a more accurate and nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape in Oakland.

To visualize the healthcare landscape of Oakland, MS (ZIP Code 38948) and the surrounding areas, consider using CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, clinic locations, and other relevant healthcare data, allowing for a more informed understanding of healthcare access and availability. Explore the power of CartoChrome maps to gain valuable insights into the healthcare environment.