39159, Rolling Fork, Mississippi Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 39159, Rolling Fork, Mississippi is 6 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 72.17 percent of the residents in 39159 has some form of health insurance. 40.04 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 37.28 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 39159 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 750 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39159. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 499 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 46 health care providers accessible to residents in 39159, Rolling Fork, Mississippi.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Rolling Fork, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39159)

Rolling Fork, Mississippi, nestled within the heart of the Mississippi Delta, presents a unique challenge when assessing its overall health score. This analysis will delve into the availability and quality of primary care physicians within ZIP code 39159, considering factors like physician-to-patient ratios, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape in this specific area, offering insights into its strengths and weaknesses.

The fundamental building block of any health score is the availability of primary care physicians. In Rolling Fork, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A low ratio, meaning fewer doctors for a larger population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and the Mississippi State Department of Health will be essential in determining the exact ratio. However, given the rural nature of the area and potential for physician shortages, it is reasonable to anticipate a ratio that may be less favorable compared to more urban or suburban settings. This scarcity of primary care physicians necessitates careful consideration of alternative healthcare delivery models.

Evaluating the quality of existing primary care practices involves looking beyond simple numbers. Factors such as the accreditation status of the clinics, the experience and qualifications of the physicians, and the availability of specialized services are crucial. Does the area have any practices affiliated with larger hospital systems, which often indicate a higher level of resources and support? Are there any practices known for their patient-centered care or innovative approaches to healthcare delivery? Patient reviews and satisfaction surveys, if available, can provide valuable insights into the patient experience, including wait times, communication with providers, and overall satisfaction. These qualitative assessments are as important as the quantitative data in forming a comprehensive picture.

Telemedicine adoption is a significant factor in improving healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially mitigating the impact of physician shortages. The extent to which primary care practices in Rolling Fork utilize telemedicine technologies, such as video consultations, remote monitoring, and electronic health records, will be a key indicator of their ability to serve the community effectively. Examining the availability of telemedicine services, the types of services offered, and the ease of access for patients are all critical components of this analysis.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but essential component of overall health. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is crucial for addressing mental health concerns and promoting overall well-being. Assessing the number of mental health providers in the area, the types of services they offer (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), and the accessibility of these services (e.g., insurance acceptance, wait times) is vital. Furthermore, the integration of mental health services within primary care practices, such as screening for mental health conditions and referrals to specialists, is a positive indicator of a holistic approach to healthcare.

Beyond the direct provision of healthcare services, community-level factors also play a role in the overall health score. The availability of social services, such as food banks, housing assistance, and transportation, can significantly impact health outcomes. These social determinants of health, as they are often called, create a safety net for vulnerable populations and help address the underlying causes of poor health. Assessing the presence and effectiveness of these resources is an important part of the analysis.

The specific practices within the area warrant individual attention. Identifying standout practices, those that demonstrate a commitment to quality care, patient satisfaction, and innovative service delivery, is essential. These practices might be recognized for their use of technology, their patient-centered approach, or their focus on preventative care. Understanding their strengths and best practices can provide valuable insights for the community and potentially inform efforts to improve healthcare delivery. Conversely, identifying areas where practices may be falling short, such as long wait times or limited access to specialists, can highlight areas that require attention and improvement.

The assessment of the overall health score in Rolling Fork should also consider the challenges specific to the region. The Delta region often faces unique health disparities, including higher rates of chronic diseases, poverty, and limited access to healthcare. Understanding these challenges and the efforts being made to address them is crucial. This includes examining initiatives aimed at improving health literacy, promoting healthy lifestyles, and reducing health disparities. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government is essential for addressing these complex issues.

The overall health score for Rolling Fork, Mississippi, is not a static number. It is a dynamic assessment that reflects the ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access and quality. Regular monitoring and evaluation are necessary to track progress, identify areas for improvement, and adapt to the changing needs of the community. The data collected, the analysis conducted, and the insights gained can be used to inform policy decisions, allocate resources effectively, and ultimately improve the health and well-being of the residents of Rolling Fork.

The analysis will be incomplete without a visual representation of the data. CartoChrome maps provide an interactive and intuitive way to visualize the healthcare landscape in Rolling Fork. These maps can display physician locations, practice characteristics, access to services, and other relevant data points.