39189, Walnut Grove, Mississippi Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 39189, Walnut Grove, Mississippi is 13 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.79 percent of the residents in 39189 has some form of health insurance. 55.41 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 39.23 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 39189 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,149 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39189. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 331 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 154 health care providers accessible to residents in 39189, Walnut Grove, Mississippi.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Walnut Grove, MS (ZIP Code 39189)

Analyzing the overall health landscape of Walnut Grove, Mississippi, specifically within the 39189 ZIP code, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into key indicators such as physician-to-patient ratios, the availability of primary care services, the adoption of telemedicine, and the presence of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' assessment, identifying strengths, weaknesses, and areas ripe for improvement.

The foundation of any health assessment lies in the availability of medical professionals. Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical metric. Ideally, a community should have a sufficient number of physicians to meet the healthcare needs of its residents. However, in rural areas like Walnut Grove, this can be a challenge. The 39189 ZIP code likely faces a shortage of primary care physicians, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced access to preventative care. This scarcity impacts the 'Overall Health Score' negatively, placing a strain on the existing medical infrastructure.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality and accessibility of primary care services are crucial. Assessing the 'Overall Health Score' requires examining the range of services offered by local practices. Do they provide comprehensive care, including routine checkups, vaccinations, and management of chronic conditions? Are they accepting new patients? The presence of a well-established primary care network is vital for a healthy community. The analysis will also consider the presence of specialists. While primary care is the cornerstone, access to specialists for conditions like cardiology, dermatology, or gastroenterology is essential for comprehensive healthcare. Limited specialist availability would further depress the 'Overall Health Score'.

Identifying standout practices within the community is important. This involves evaluating factors such as patient reviews, the use of technology, and the overall patient experience. Practices that prioritize patient communication, offer extended hours, and utilize electronic health records often demonstrate a higher level of care. These practices, if present, would positively influence the 'Overall Health Score' and serve as models for other providers. The evaluation would also consider the clinic’s affiliation with larger healthcare systems or networks, which can often provide access to a broader range of resources and expertise.

Telemedicine adoption is another significant factor. In a rural area, telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers and improve access to care. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals demonstrate a commitment to accessibility and convenience. Widespread telemedicine adoption would boost the 'Overall Health Score', especially for patients who have difficulty traveling to appointments. The analysis will examine the availability of telemedicine services for both primary care and specialist consultations.

Mental health resources are a critical component of overall well-being. The analysis will assess the availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed counselors, within the 39189 ZIP code. The presence of these resources significantly impacts the 'Overall Health Score'. The analysis will also investigate the availability of mental health support groups, community mental health centers, and crisis intervention services. The availability of these services is crucial for addressing mental health needs and preventing crises.

The integration of mental health services with primary care is also important. Practices that offer integrated behavioral health services, where mental health professionals work alongside primary care physicians, can improve patient outcomes and reduce the stigma associated with mental illness. The analysis will assess the prevalence of integrated care models in the Walnut Grove area.

Furthermore, the analysis will consider the impact of socioeconomic factors on health outcomes. Poverty, lack of access to transportation, and limited health literacy can all negatively affect the 'Overall Health Score'. These factors must be considered to provide a complete picture of the community's health landscape. The analysis will explore the availability of social services, such as food banks, housing assistance, and transportation programs, which can support overall health and well-being.

Ultimately, the 'Overall Health Score' for Walnut Grove (39189) is likely to be moderate, possibly even below average, due to the challenges inherent in rural healthcare. The potential for a lower physician-to-patient ratio, limited access to specialists, and the need for improved mental health resources would likely weigh down the score. However, the presence of standout practices and the adoption of telemedicine could partially offset these challenges. The score would be further impacted by socioeconomic factors, such as poverty and transportation limitations.

Addressing the identified weaknesses would require a multi-pronged approach. This includes recruiting and retaining physicians, expanding telemedicine services, increasing access to mental health resources, and addressing socioeconomic disparities. Investing in community health initiatives, promoting health literacy, and fostering partnerships between healthcare providers and community organizations are all crucial steps toward improving the 'Overall Health Score' for Walnut Grove.

For a deeper dive into the spatial distribution of healthcare resources, physician locations, and the demographics of health needs in Walnut Grove, explore the interactive maps and data visualizations available through CartoChrome. Gain a comprehensive understanding of the health landscape and identify areas for improvement.