39073, Florence, Mississippi Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 39073, Florence, Mississippi is 99 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.75 percent of the residents in 39073 has some form of health insurance. 37.57 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 64.55 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 39073 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,279 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39073. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,127 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,796 health care providers accessible to residents in 39073, Florence, Mississippi.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Florence, MS (39073) and Primary Care Availability

This analysis provides an overall health score assessment for the population served by ZIP code 39073 in Florence, Mississippi, focusing on primary care availability and related health resources. It considers several key factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. This evaluation aims to paint a comprehensive picture of the healthcare landscape in Florence, offering insights into its strengths and weaknesses.

The foundation of any health assessment lies in understanding the physician-to-patient ratio. This metric directly reflects the potential access residents have to primary care physicians. A low ratio, indicating a higher number of patients per doctor, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and ultimately, a less responsive healthcare system. Publicly available data from the Mississippi State Department of Health, combined with information from the American Medical Association (AMA) and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), should be consulted to determine the precise ratio within 39073. This data, however, often lags, necessitating the use of broader county-level statistics for initial comparisons. Given the rural nature of much of Mississippi, it is reasonable to anticipate a ratio that may be less favorable than the national average. This could potentially translate into limited access to primary care, particularly for those with chronic conditions or requiring regular check-ups.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of care is crucial. Identifying standout medical practices in Florence is essential. This involves evaluating factors such as patient satisfaction scores, the range of services offered, the adoption of innovative technologies, and the practice's commitment to preventative care. Information from sources like Healthgrades, Vitals, and patient reviews can be used to identify practices with a strong reputation for patient care. It is important to consider whether these practices accept a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicaid and Medicare, to ensure accessibility for all residents. The presence of practices offering specialized services, such as diabetes management, geriatric care, or women's health, further enhances the overall health score. These practices often serve as crucial hubs for comprehensive care within the community.

Telemedicine has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption can significantly improve access to care, especially for those with mobility issues or limited transportation options. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption in Florence involves determining which primary care practices offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring services, and online patient portals. Practices that embrace telemedicine can potentially overcome geographical barriers and provide timely care to a broader patient base. The availability of telehealth services, particularly for follow-up appointments and chronic disease management, can positively impact the health outcomes of the residents. The integration of telehealth platforms into the existing healthcare infrastructure is a key indicator of a progressive and patient-centered approach.

Mental health is an integral component of overall well-being, and the availability of mental health resources is a critical factor in this assessment. Florence's health score is significantly impacted by the presence of mental health providers, including psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors. The availability of these services, including both in-person and telehealth options, is crucial. The presence of community mental health centers, support groups, and crisis intervention services can further enhance the accessibility of mental healthcare. Evaluating the integration of mental health services within primary care practices, such as offering on-site counseling or collaborating with mental health professionals, is a positive indicator. The ability to address mental health concerns promptly and effectively is essential for promoting overall health and well-being.

The assessment of the health score must also consider the broader social determinants of health. These include factors such as socioeconomic status, access to healthy food, safe housing, and transportation. While this analysis focuses on healthcare providers, these external factors significantly influence health outcomes. The presence of community programs addressing these needs, such as food banks, affordable housing initiatives, and public transportation options, can positively impact the health score. Collaboration between healthcare providers and community organizations is essential to address these multifaceted challenges and improve the overall health of the population.

In conclusion, evaluating the overall health score for Florence, MS (39073), requires a comprehensive approach. It involves analyzing physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout medical practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and evaluating the accessibility of mental health resources. The presence of strong primary care practices, the embrace of telehealth technologies, and the availability of robust mental health services are crucial for improving the health outcomes of the residents. The evaluation must also consider the social determinants of health, recognizing that healthcare access is only one piece of the puzzle. The overall health score can be improved by addressing these factors and implementing collaborative strategies.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Florence, MS, and visualize the spatial distribution of healthcare resources, consider exploring interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. These maps can help you identify areas with limited access to care and pinpoint opportunities for improvement.