39361, Shuqualak, Mississippi Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 39361, Shuqualak, Mississippi is 6 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.28 percent of the residents in 39361 has some form of health insurance. 55.40 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.11 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 39361 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 117 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39361. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 346 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 67 health care providers accessible to residents in 39361, Shuqualak, Mississippi.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Shuqualak, MS (ZIP Code 39361)

Assessing the overall health landscape within Shuqualak, Mississippi, necessitates a deep dive into the availability and quality of primary care services. This analysis will evaluate the health resources within the 39361 ZIP code, focusing on physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. This comprehensive evaluation provides an ‘Overall Health Score’ for the community.

The foundation of a healthy community rests on the accessibility of primary care physicians. Determining the physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. Data from the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and the Mississippi State Department of Health can be used to approximate this. A lower ratio, indicating more patients per physician, suggests potential challenges in accessing timely appointments and comprehensive care. The specific ratio for 39361 needs to be calculated using available data, considering the total population and the number of actively practicing primary care physicians within the ZIP code. This initial metric significantly impacts the overall health score.

The analysis must identify and evaluate the primary care practices operating within Shuqualak. Are there any practices that consistently receive positive patient reviews? Do they offer a wide range of services, including preventative care, chronic disease management, and acute illness treatment? Factors such as the experience of the physicians, the availability of specialized equipment, and the responsiveness of the staff contribute to the quality of care. Practices with a demonstrated commitment to patient-centered care, evidenced by factors such as extended hours, same-day appointments, and a focus on patient education, will positively influence the overall health score.

The integration of telemedicine into primary care delivery is increasingly important. Telemedicine offers the potential to expand access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas like Shuqualak. The availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals can improve convenience and allow for proactive health management. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments for routine check-ups, medication refills, and follow-up consultations, will receive a higher score. Conversely, a lack of telemedicine adoption may indicate a barrier to accessing care for certain patient populations.

Mental health is a critical component of overall well-being, and the availability of mental health resources is a key factor in the health score. Does Shuqualak have access to mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed therapists? Are there community mental health centers or partnerships with behavioral health organizations? The presence of these resources, and the ease with which patients can access them, will significantly impact the health score. The availability of support groups, educational programs, and crisis intervention services further enhances the community’s mental health infrastructure.

Beyond the direct provision of medical services, other factors contribute to the overall health of the community. These include access to healthy food options, safe and affordable housing, and opportunities for physical activity. While these factors are not directly related to the availability of primary care, they are crucial determinants of health outcomes. The analysis should consider the presence of community resources that promote healthy lifestyles, such as farmers' markets, parks, and recreational facilities.

A comprehensive analysis of the health score also considers the demographics of the population served. Factors such as age, socioeconomic status, and the prevalence of chronic diseases can influence health needs. The analysis should consider the specific health challenges faced by the residents of Shuqualak and assess whether the available resources are adequate to meet those needs. This includes evaluating the availability of specialized care for conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and cancer.

The overall health score for Shuqualak will be determined by weighting the various factors discussed. The physician-to-patient ratio will be a critical component, reflecting the fundamental accessibility of primary care. The quality of the primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources will be given significant weight. The presence of community resources that support healthy lifestyles will also be considered. A higher score indicates a community with a robust healthcare infrastructure and a greater likelihood of positive health outcomes.

The final score will be a composite metric, reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in Shuqualak. It will provide a valuable tool for policymakers, healthcare providers, and community members to identify areas for improvement and to advocate for resources that will enhance the health and well-being of the residents. This score is not a static measure; it should be reassessed periodically to track progress and adapt to changing needs.

The assessment of health within Shuqualak, MS (39361), is a complex undertaking, requiring a nuanced understanding of its healthcare ecosystem. By analyzing the physician-to-patient ratio, evaluating the practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and examining mental health resources, a more complete picture emerges. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the overall health of the community and identifying areas for improvement.