39074, Forest, Mississippi Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 39074, Forest, Mississippi is 10 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.27 percent of the residents in 39074 has some form of health insurance. 46.19 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 46.95 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 39074 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,920 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39074. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,413 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 292 health care providers accessible to residents in 39074, Forest, Mississippi.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Forest, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39074)

This analysis provides an 'Overall Health Score' assessment for the Forest, Mississippi area, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care services within ZIP code 39074. It considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to offer a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare landscape, enabling informed decision-making for residents and stakeholders.

Forest, Mississippi, a community in Scott County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities within its healthcare ecosystem. The 'Overall Health Score' is not a single numerical value but a composite assessment based on several interconnected factors. It considers the accessibility, affordability, and quality of primary care services, crucial for maintaining a healthy population.

One of the primary indicators of healthcare accessibility is the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio suggests a potential shortage of primary care physicians, leading to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventive care, and potentially poorer health outcomes. While precise, real-time physician-to-patient ratios are difficult to ascertain definitively without proprietary data, publicly available resources like the Area Health Resources Files (AHRF) and state medical board databases provide valuable insights. These resources can be cross-referenced with population data from the U.S. Census Bureau to estimate the number of patients per physician in the 39074 ZIP code. A concerningly high ratio would negatively impact the 'Overall Health Score'.

The presence of standout primary care practices significantly influences the quality component of the 'Overall Health Score'. These practices are evaluated based on several criteria, including patient satisfaction scores (often available through online review platforms like Healthgrades or Vitals), the adoption of advanced technologies (such as electronic health records and patient portals), the range of services offered (including chronic disease management, preventative care, and specialist referrals), and their commitment to patient-centered care. Practices that consistently demonstrate excellence in these areas contribute positively to the 'Overall Health Score'. Conversely, practices with consistently negative reviews or limited service offerings would detract from the score.

The adoption of telemedicine represents a critical aspect of modern healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas like Forest. Telemedicine expands access to care by reducing geographical barriers, enabling patients to consult with physicians remotely. Its integration into primary care practices in the 39074 ZIP code is assessed by examining the availability of virtual appointments, remote monitoring capabilities, and the use of telehealth platforms. Practices that embrace telemedicine enhance the 'Overall Health Score' by improving accessibility and convenience. Limited or no telemedicine adoption would negatively impact the score, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in remote areas.

Mental health resources are integral to overall well-being, and their availability significantly impacts the 'Overall Health Score'. The assessment considers the presence of mental health professionals (psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors) within the community, the accessibility of mental health services (including affordability and wait times), and the integration of mental health care into primary care practices. Practices that offer integrated behavioral health services or have established referral pathways to mental health specialists contribute positively to the score. A scarcity of mental health resources or a lack of coordination between primary care and mental health providers would negatively impact the score.

Furthermore, the 'Overall Health Score' considers the availability of specialty care. While this analysis focuses on primary care, the ability of primary care physicians to refer patients to specialists in a timely manner is crucial. The presence of specialists in nearby communities and the efficiency of referral networks are factored into the assessment. Limited access to specialty care would indirectly affect the 'Overall Health Score' by potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment.

The 'Overall Health Score' is also influenced by the socioeconomic factors prevalent in the Forest area. Poverty rates, insurance coverage levels, and educational attainment all play a role in health outcomes. Communities with higher poverty rates and lower insurance coverage often face greater challenges in accessing healthcare, which can negatively impact the 'Overall Health Score'. This analysis acknowledges these factors, although specific data may not be included due to the scope of the analysis.

Ultimately, the 'Overall Health Score' for primary care availability in Forest, Mississippi (39074) is a complex assessment. It is not a static measure but a dynamic evaluation that reflects the evolving healthcare landscape. The score is influenced by the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of existing primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the socioeconomic factors that impact the community.

The analysis also considers the impact of any recent changes in the healthcare infrastructure, such as the opening or closing of clinics, the arrival or departure of physicians, and the implementation of new healthcare programs. These changes can significantly affect the 'Overall Health Score', either positively or negatively.

In conclusion, the 'Overall Health Score' for Forest, Mississippi (39074) is a reflection of the community's healthcare resources and their ability to meet the needs of its residents. By understanding the various factors that contribute to the score, the community can identify areas for improvement and work towards creating a healthier future.

For a more detailed and visually informative understanding of the healthcare landscape in Forest, Mississippi, including the location of healthcare providers, access to services, and demographic data, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps and data visualizations offered by CartoChrome.