39170, Terry, Mississippi Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 39170, Terry, Mississippi is 95 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.47 percent of the residents in 39170 has some form of health insurance. 36.60 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.46 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 39170 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,920 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 58 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39170. An estimate of 21 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,888 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,747 health care providers accessible to residents in 39170, Terry, Mississippi.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Terry, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39170)

Analyzing the overall health landscape in Terry, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39170) requires a multi-faceted approach. We must go beyond simple counts of physicians and delve into the nuances of access, quality, and the availability of critical healthcare resources. This analysis will provide an 'Overall Health Score' assessment, considering physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, culminating in a call to action.

The foundation of any health assessment lies in understanding the physician-to-patient ratio. In Terry, the precise ratio is difficult to ascertain without access to real-time, comprehensive data. However, we can infer trends. Rural areas often face challenges in physician recruitment and retention, potentially leading to a higher patient-to-physician ratio compared to urban centers. This means that each primary care physician (PCP) in Terry likely shoulders a larger patient load. This can impact appointment availability, wait times, and the overall ability of patients to receive timely care. Further investigation is needed to pinpoint the exact ratio, ideally utilizing data from the Mississippi State Department of Health and the American Medical Association.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of available primary care is crucial. Identifying "standout practices" requires examining factors such as patient satisfaction, the range of services offered, and the adoption of innovative technologies. Are there clinics in Terry that consistently receive high patient ratings? Do these practices offer extended hours, weekend appointments, or same-day availability for urgent needs? Are they equipped with modern diagnostic tools and electronic health record systems that facilitate seamless information sharing and improved patient care? The answers to these questions will significantly impact the overall health score.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The ability to access healthcare remotely, particularly for follow-up appointments, medication management, and consultations, can significantly improve access, especially for those with mobility issues or limited transportation options. Has telemedicine gained traction among the primary care providers in Terry? Are virtual appointments readily available? Are providers utilizing secure platforms to ensure patient privacy and data security? The presence and utilization of telemedicine services can elevate the health score by enhancing accessibility and convenience.

Mental health resources are often under-resourced, especially in rural areas. Assessing the availability of mental health services in Terry is crucial. Are there psychiatrists, psychologists, or licensed therapists practicing within the ZIP code or in nearby communities? Is there access to counseling services, support groups, or mental health programs? The integration of mental healthcare into primary care settings is also important. Do primary care physicians have the resources to screen for mental health conditions and provide initial support or referrals? The availability and accessibility of mental health services directly influence the overall health score.

To gain a more comprehensive understanding, we must look at the broader healthcare ecosystem. Are there hospitals or specialized clinics within a reasonable driving distance? Do these facilities offer a full range of services, including emergency care, specialist consultations, and surgical procedures? The presence of a robust healthcare infrastructure can mitigate some of the challenges associated with a potentially lower physician-to-patient ratio.

The overall health score for Terry, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39170) is likely influenced by the interplay of these factors. A high physician-to-patient ratio, coupled with limited access to telemedicine and mental health resources, could negatively impact the score. Conversely, the presence of high-quality primary care practices, the widespread adoption of telemedicine, and readily available mental health services would significantly improve the score.

To improve the health score, several strategies could be implemented. Recruiting and retaining physicians, particularly PCPs, is paramount. Incentives such as loan repayment programs, attractive compensation packages, and a supportive practice environment could be employed. Expanding telemedicine capabilities, investing in telehealth infrastructure, and training healthcare providers on the effective use of virtual platforms can also improve access.

Increasing access to mental health services is another crucial step. This could involve partnering with mental health providers to offer services in primary care settings, expanding telehealth options for mental health consultations, and raising awareness about mental health resources within the community. Promoting mental health literacy and reducing the stigma associated with mental illness are also essential.

Furthermore, fostering collaboration among healthcare providers, hospitals, and community organizations can create a more integrated and patient-centered healthcare system. This could involve establishing referral networks, sharing best practices, and coordinating care for patients with complex health needs.

The overall health score is not static; it is a dynamic measure that can be improved through strategic interventions and ongoing efforts. A comprehensive assessment of the specific data points discussed above is crucial for a definitive score.
To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Terry, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39170), and to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, consider exploring interactive maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, clinic locations, and other relevant data points, allowing for a more nuanced and data-driven analysis. CartoChrome maps can help you understand the spatial relationships between healthcare providers and the population, identifying areas of high need and informing strategies for improving healthcare access and quality.