39335, Lauderdale, Mississippi Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 39335, Lauderdale, Mississippi is 83 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.29 percent of the residents in 39335 has some form of health insurance. 47.20 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.22 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 39335 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 197 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39335. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 465 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,094 health care providers accessible to residents in 39335, Lauderdale, Mississippi.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in 39335 and Primary Care Availability in Lauderdale County

Analyzing the overall health landscape within ZIP code 39335, which encompasses the town of Collinsville, Mississippi, and assessing primary care availability across Lauderdale County presents a complex picture. This analysis aims to provide an informed perspective, examining key factors contributing to the health of the community. We will consider physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of healthcare access. In 39335, the availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare professionals likely presents a challenge. Rural areas often experience shortages, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and increased travel distances for residents seeking care. Data from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and the Mississippi State Department of Health would be crucial to obtain an accurate physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio would suggest a need for interventions to improve access, such as incentivizing healthcare professionals to practice in the area or expanding telehealth services.

Lauderdale County, as a whole, may offer a slightly better, but still potentially strained, physician-to-patient ratio than 39335. The city of Meridian, the county seat, typically has a concentration of healthcare facilities. However, the county's rural nature suggests that disparities in access may exist, with residents in outlying areas facing greater challenges in obtaining timely care. The county's overall ratio would be influenced by the distribution of physicians and the population density across its various communities.

Identifying standout practices within 39335 and Lauderdale County is crucial. These practices often serve as models for quality care and community engagement. They may demonstrate excellence in patient satisfaction, preventative care, or specialized services. Researching local hospitals, clinics, and private practices would be necessary. Information on their accreditation, patient reviews, and the range of services offered would be valuable. Practices with a strong focus on chronic disease management, such as diabetes or heart disease, are particularly important in addressing the health needs of the community.

The adoption of telemedicine is a critical factor in improving healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving convenience. Its implementation can be assessed by examining the availability of telehealth services offered by local practices and hospitals. The types of telehealth services, such as virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and mental health support, should also be considered. Successful telemedicine implementation requires adequate internet infrastructure, patient and provider training, and compliance with privacy regulations.

Mental health resources are a vital component of overall health. Assessing the availability of mental health services in 39335 and Lauderdale County is essential. This includes evaluating the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and mental health clinics. The availability of crisis intervention services, support groups, and substance abuse treatment programs should also be considered. The mental health needs of a community are often significant, and inadequate resources can have a detrimental impact on the overall health and well-being of residents. The integration of mental health services into primary care settings can also improve access and reduce the stigma associated with seeking mental health care.

Specific examples of practices or services that could be highlighted include the Meridian Naval Air Station clinic, which may provide healthcare services to military personnel and their families, and any local hospitals, such as Rush Health Systems, that may offer a broad range of medical services. Investigating the specific services offered by these facilities and their accessibility to the general public is essential. Furthermore, any community health centers or federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) in the area should be examined, as these often provide affordable care to underserved populations.

The analysis must also consider the social determinants of health, which are the non-medical factors that influence health outcomes. These include socioeconomic status, education, access to healthy food, safe housing, and environmental factors. Understanding these factors is crucial for developing effective interventions to improve health outcomes. For example, if a significant portion of the population in 39335 experiences food insecurity, programs that address this issue, such as food banks or community gardens, would be beneficial.

The overall health score for 39335 and Lauderdale County is likely to be moderate, with areas of strength and areas needing improvement. The rural nature of the area, combined with potential resource constraints, presents challenges to healthcare access and the availability of specialized services. While Meridian may offer a more robust healthcare infrastructure, disparities in access may persist across the county. The adoption of telemedicine and the strengthening of mental health resources are critical areas for improvement.

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in 39335 and Lauderdale County, a detailed geographic analysis is recommended. CartoChrome maps can be used to visualize the distribution of healthcare providers, the locations of health facilities, and the demographics of the population. This type of mapping can help identify areas with limited access to care and inform the development of targeted interventions.

**Explore the healthcare landscape in 39335 and Lauderdale County with CartoChrome maps. Gain a visual understanding of healthcare access and identify areas for improvement.**