39332, Hickory, Mississippi Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 39332, Hickory, Mississippi is 8 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.13 percent of the residents in 39332 has some form of health insurance. 33.74 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 53.71 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 39332 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 942 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39332. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 153 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,220 health care providers accessible to residents in 39332, Hickory, Mississippi.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 39332 and Primary Care Availability in Hickory

Evaluating the overall health landscape within ZIP Code 39332 and the broader context of primary care availability in Hickory, Mississippi, necessitates a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will delve into key indicators, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The aim is to provide a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' assessment, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and areas ripe for improvement.

The foundation of any health assessment lies in understanding the availability of healthcare providers relative to the population. Analyzing physician-to-patient ratios within ZIP Code 39332 reveals a critical aspect of accessibility. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of physicians, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially poorer health outcomes. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests a more robust healthcare infrastructure, potentially allowing for more personalized care and proactive health management. Specific data, such as the number of primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare professionals serving the population within this ZIP code, is essential for a precise evaluation. This data should be compared to national and state averages to gauge the relative strength or weakness of the local healthcare ecosystem.

Beyond mere numbers, the quality of care provided is paramount. Identifying standout medical practices within ZIP Code 39332 is crucial. This involves evaluating factors such as patient satisfaction scores, accreditation status, the breadth of services offered, and the integration of technology. Practices that have earned recognition for excellence, whether through patient reviews, awards, or specialized certifications, should be highlighted. Furthermore, assessing the types of services available is important. Does the area have a good mix of primary care physicians, specialists, and ancillary services like physical therapy or imaging centers? The presence of comprehensive care options contributes significantly to a higher overall health score.

The adoption of telemedicine has become increasingly significant, particularly in rural areas. Examining the extent to which doctors in ZIP Code 39332 utilize telemedicine platforms is vital. Telemedicine offers the potential to bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to access care remotely, reducing travel time, and improving access to specialists. The availability of telehealth appointments, remote monitoring capabilities, and digital health records are all indicators of telemedicine integration. Practices that embrace telehealth technologies are likely to provide more convenient and accessible care, contributing positively to the overall health score.

Mental health is an integral component of overall well-being, and access to mental health resources is a critical factor in evaluating the health landscape. Assessing the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, within ZIP Code 39332 is essential. The presence of mental health clinics, support groups, and crisis intervention services significantly impacts the community's ability to address mental health needs. Furthermore, the integration of mental health services into primary care settings can improve access and reduce the stigma associated with mental health concerns. The health score is significantly affected by the availability and accessibility of mental health resources.

When considering primary care availability in Hickory, the analysis expands to encompass a broader geographic scope. This involves evaluating the distribution of primary care physicians across the city, considering factors such as proximity to residents, transportation options, and the ability of practices to accept new patients. The presence of community health centers and other safety-net providers plays a crucial role in ensuring access to care for all residents, regardless of their socioeconomic status. Examining the capacity of primary care practices to handle the population's needs is also important. Are there enough providers to meet the demand? Are wait times reasonable? These factors directly impact the health score.

The assessment should also consider the demographic characteristics of the population served by the healthcare providers. Factors such as age, race, socioeconomic status, and prevalence of chronic diseases can influence healthcare needs and the effectiveness of healthcare delivery. Analyzing health disparities within the community is essential for identifying areas where targeted interventions are needed to improve health outcomes. This analysis should also consider the availability of health education programs and preventative care services.

In conclusion, the 'Overall Health Score' for doctors in ZIP Code 39332 and primary care availability in Hickory is a complex metric that depends on a variety of factors. Physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources are all critical components. A comprehensive analysis should also consider demographic factors, health disparities, and the availability of preventative care services. By evaluating these factors, we can gain a clear picture of the health landscape and identify areas for improvement.

To visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, access patient demographics, and compare health metrics across Hickory and surrounding areas, explore the interactive maps available through CartoChrome.