39051, Carthage, Mississippi Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 39051, Carthage, Mississippi is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 81.71 percent of the residents in 39051 has some form of health insurance. 45.35 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 47.92 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 39051 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,978 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39051. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,664 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 286 health care providers accessible to residents in 39051, Carthage, Mississippi.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Carthage, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39051)

Assessing the overall health landscape within Carthage, Mississippi, specifically focusing on ZIP code 39051, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will evaluate the availability of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of telemedicine, the accessibility of mental health resources, and identify any standout practices. This evaluation aims to provide a comprehensive ‘Overall Health Score’ for the community.

The cornerstone of any healthy community is access to primary care. In Carthage, the availability of primary care physicians is a critical factor. Determining the precise number of practicing primary care physicians within the designated ZIP code is the first step. This number, when compared to the population of 39051, yields the physician-to-patient ratio. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, suggests potential challenges in accessing timely and routine medical care. This can lead to delayed diagnoses, increased reliance on emergency room visits for non-emergency conditions, and ultimately, a lower overall health score.

Accurate data on the population of 39051 is crucial. Publicly available data from sources like the U.S. Census Bureau provides the necessary population figures. Cross-referencing this with directories of medical professionals, such as those maintained by the Mississippi State Board of Medical Licensure, allows for an estimation of the physician-to-patient ratio. This ratio is a key indicator of the community’s ability to receive preventative care and manage chronic conditions effectively. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, would positively influence the health score.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is also important. Identifying standout practices within Carthage is essential. This requires evaluating factors such as patient satisfaction scores, the range of services offered (e.g., preventative screenings, chronic disease management, pediatric care), and the integration of technology. Practices that actively embrace electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals often demonstrate a commitment to efficiency and patient engagement. Positive patient reviews and testimonials are also strong indicators of quality care.

Telemedicine, the practice of providing healthcare remotely via technology, has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care physicians in Carthage can significantly impact the health score. Telemedicine can improve access to care for patients who face geographical barriers, mobility limitations, or transportation challenges. It can also facilitate more frequent follow-up appointments and remote monitoring of chronic conditions. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services, including virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring, and online appointment scheduling, is crucial.

Mental health resources are another critical component of overall health. Access to mental health services, including psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors, is essential for addressing mental health challenges. Evaluating the availability of these resources within Carthage, as well as the ease of access (e.g., wait times, insurance acceptance), is essential. The presence of community mental health centers, support groups, and partnerships between primary care physicians and mental health providers would positively impact the health score. A lack of these resources would negatively affect the score.

The integration of mental and physical healthcare is increasingly recognized as best practice. Primary care physicians who screen for mental health conditions and readily refer patients to mental health professionals contribute to a more holistic approach to care. The degree to which primary care practices in Carthage integrate mental health services is a significant factor in the overall health score.

The health score will also consider the demographic makeup of the community. Understanding the age distribution, socioeconomic status, and prevalence of chronic diseases within 39051 provides context for the health needs of the population. This information can inform the evaluation of primary care services and resource allocation. For example, a community with a higher percentage of elderly residents may require more geriatric care services.

Furthermore, the presence of community health initiatives, such as health education programs, disease prevention campaigns, and partnerships with local organizations, can positively influence the health score. These initiatives demonstrate a commitment to promoting health and well-being within the community.

Finally, the overall health score is a dynamic measure. It should be reassessed periodically to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape, population demographics, and the availability of resources. This ongoing assessment is crucial for identifying areas for improvement and ensuring that the community has access to the healthcare it needs.

The ‘Overall Health Score’ for Carthage, Mississippi, and ZIP code 39051, is a complex evaluation. It relies on a combination of quantitative data (physician-to-patient ratio, telemedicine adoption rates, availability of mental health resources) and qualitative assessments (quality of care, patient satisfaction, community health initiatives). The analysis provides a snapshot of the current health landscape, highlighting strengths and weaknesses.

To gain a deeper understanding of the geographical distribution of healthcare resources and the factors influencing health outcomes in Carthage, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of the health landscape, helping to identify areas of need and inform strategies for improving community health.