39152, Pulaski, Mississippi Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 39152, Pulaski, Mississippi is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 71.24 percent of the residents in 39152 has some form of health insurance. 40.45 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 48.98 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 39152 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 259 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39152. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 169 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 100 health care providers accessible to residents in 39152, Pulaski, Mississippi.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 39152 and Primary Care Availability in Pulaski

Assessing the overall health landscape within ZIP code 39152 and the broader context of primary care availability in Pulaski, Mississippi, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into key indicators, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. Ultimately, this examination aims to provide a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' assessment.

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

One of the most fundamental metrics is the physician-to-patient ratio. In ZIP code 39152, a rural area, this ratio is likely a significant factor in determining the overall health score. Rural communities often face challenges in attracting and retaining medical professionals. This can lead to a lower number of physicians per capita, resulting in longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to specialized care, and potentially, a decline in preventative care measures. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is particularly critical, as they serve as the gateway to the healthcare system. A shortage of PCPs can strain emergency rooms and lead to delayed diagnoses.

The situation in Pulaski, while encompassing a larger geographic area, likely reflects similar challenges. Assessing the number of PCPs, specialists, and other healthcare providers serving the population of Pulaski is crucial. Data from the Mississippi State Department of Health and other relevant sources will be needed to accurately determine the physician-to-patient ratio. Comparing this ratio to state and national averages will provide valuable context for understanding the accessibility of healthcare services.

**Standout Practices and Quality of Care:**

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of care is paramount. Identifying standout practices within ZIP code 39152 and the broader Pulaski area involves evaluating several factors. These include patient satisfaction scores, the adoption of evidence-based practices, and the availability of advanced medical technologies. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, offer extended hours, and provide comprehensive services, including chronic disease management, are likely to contribute positively to the overall health score.

Researching local healthcare providers, including hospitals, clinics, and private practices, is essential. Examining their online presence, reading patient reviews, and assessing their affiliations with larger healthcare networks can provide insights into their quality of care. Accreditations from organizations like the Joint Commission can also serve as indicators of quality and safety.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact:**

Telemedicine has emerged as a transformative force in healthcare, particularly in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by healthcare providers in ZIP code 39152 and Pulaski can significantly impact the overall health score. Telemedicine enables patients to access healthcare services remotely, reducing the need for travel, minimizing wait times, and improving access to specialists.

Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption involves determining the number of providers offering telehealth consultations, the types of services available through telemedicine (e.g., primary care, mental health, specialist consultations), and the technology infrastructure in place to support telemedicine (e.g., internet access, secure video conferencing platforms). The availability of telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for patients with chronic conditions, those living in remote areas, and those with mobility limitations.

**Mental Health Resources: A Critical Component:**

Mental health is an integral part of overall health. The availability of mental health resources in ZIP code 39152 and Pulaski is a crucial factor in determining the overall health score. Access to mental health services, including therapy, counseling, and psychiatric care, is essential for addressing a wide range of mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, and substance abuse.

Evaluating mental health resources involves assessing the number of mental health providers (e.g., psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists), the availability of mental health clinics and hospitals, and the presence of support groups and community resources. The integration of mental health services into primary care settings can also improve access to care and reduce the stigma associated with mental illness. Furthermore, the availability of crisis intervention services and suicide prevention programs is critical for addressing urgent mental health needs.

**Specifics and Data Collection:**

To provide a truly accurate 'Overall Health Score,' specific data collection is essential. This would involve gathering information from various sources, including:

* **Mississippi State Department of Health:** Data on physician-to-patient ratios, healthcare provider demographics, and public health initiatives.
* **Local Hospitals and Clinics:** Information on services offered, patient satisfaction scores, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources.
* **Insurance Providers:** Data on healthcare utilization, access to care, and the prevalence of chronic diseases.
* **Community Organizations:** Information on local health programs, support groups, and social determinants of health.
* **National Databases:** Data from organizations like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ).

**Challenges and Considerations:**

Several challenges may arise in this assessment. Data availability can be a limitation, particularly in rural areas. Patient privacy regulations must be adhered to. The dynamic nature of healthcare, with providers coming and going, and new technologies emerging, requires ongoing monitoring and updates.

**Conclusion and Overall Health Score Estimation:**

Based on the factors discussed, the 'Overall Health Score' for ZIP code 39152 and Pulaski is likely to be influenced by the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of care provided by local practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. Given the rural nature of the area, challenges in access to care are anticipated. A comprehensive analysis, incorporating the specific data collection outlined above, would be needed to provide a more precise score.

**Call to Action:**

To visualize and analyze the healthcare landscape of ZIP code 39152 and Pulaski, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides powerful mapping and data visualization tools that can help identify areas with limited access to care, highlight the locations of healthcare providers, and analyze the impact of telemedicine and mental health resources. Explore the potential of CartoChrome to gain deeper insights into the health of your community.