39443, Laurel, Mississippi Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 39443, Laurel, Mississippi is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.85 percent of the residents in 39443 has some form of health insurance. 35.66 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.71 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 39443 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,517 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39443. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,207 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,157 health care providers accessible to residents in 39443, Laurel, Mississippi.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Laurel, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39443)

Assessing the overall health landscape within Laurel, Mississippi, specifically focusing on ZIP code 39443, requires a multifaceted examination. This analysis delves into primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, telemedicine adoption rates, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive “Overall Health Score” that reflects the current state of healthcare in the area.

The foundation of any healthy community lies in the accessibility of primary care physicians. In Laurel (39443), primary care availability is a critical factor. The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a key indicator. A favorable ratio suggests a greater likelihood of residents securing timely appointments and receiving consistent care. However, simply counting doctors isn't enough. We must consider the types of practices available, the insurance plans accepted, and the patient load each physician manages. This data is crucial to understanding whether the existing primary care infrastructure adequately serves the population's needs.

Standout practices in the area play a significant role in shaping the overall health score. These practices often demonstrate excellence in patient care, embrace innovative technologies, and contribute to community health initiatives. Identifying these practices involves evaluating factors like patient satisfaction scores, the range of services offered, and the adoption of best practices in preventative medicine. For example, practices that prioritize chronic disease management, such as diabetes or heart disease, can significantly improve the health outcomes of a large segment of the population. Analyzing these factors provides insight into the quality of care residents can expect.

Telemedicine adoption presents another vital component of the health score. The ability to access healthcare remotely, particularly for follow-up appointments, medication refills, and consultations, can significantly improve access to care, especially for those with mobility issues or living in geographically isolated areas. The degree to which local practices have embraced telemedicine, including the types of services offered remotely and the ease of use for patients, directly impacts the overall health score. Practices that actively utilize telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to modern healthcare delivery and patient convenience.

The availability of mental health resources is a critical factor in evaluating the overall health of a community. Mental health is inextricably linked to physical health, and the lack of adequate mental health services can negatively impact overall well-being. The analysis must assess the number of psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors available in the area, as well as the types of mental health services offered. This includes the availability of inpatient and outpatient care, support groups, and crisis intervention services. Furthermore, the integration of mental health services within primary care practices can significantly improve access to care and reduce the stigma associated with mental illness.

Evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio requires gathering data from various sources. This includes publicly available data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), state medical boards, and professional organizations. The analysis must consider the number of primary care physicians, including family medicine doctors, internal medicine specialists, and pediatricians, and compare this number to the population of ZIP code 39443. A higher ratio of patients per physician indicates a potential shortage, while a lower ratio suggests greater access to care. However, this data alone is insufficient. It is essential to consider the age and health profile of the population, as well as any existing health disparities.

Identifying standout practices involves a combination of research and analysis. Patient reviews, online ratings, and surveys can provide valuable insights into patient satisfaction. Analyzing the services offered by each practice, including the availability of specialized care, preventative medicine programs, and chronic disease management, is also crucial. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, utilize electronic health records effectively, and embrace innovative technologies are more likely to be considered standout practices. The analysis should also consider the practice's participation in community health initiatives and its commitment to serving underserved populations.

Telemedicine adoption rates can be assessed by surveying local practices. This includes asking questions about the types of telemedicine services offered, the platforms used, and the number of patients who utilize these services. The analysis should also consider the ease of use for patients, including the availability of technical support and the integration of telemedicine services with existing patient portals. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their operations are likely to have higher patient satisfaction rates and improved access to care.

Assessing the availability of mental health resources requires gathering data from various sources. This includes identifying the number of mental health professionals in the area, including psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors. The analysis should also consider the types of mental health services offered, including inpatient and outpatient care, support groups, and crisis intervention services. Furthermore, the analysis should evaluate the integration of mental health services within primary care practices and the availability of mental health resources for specific populations, such as children and adolescents.

In conclusion, determining the "Overall Health Score" for Laurel, Mississippi (39443) requires a comprehensive evaluation of primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. While specific data points are needed to arrive at a definitive score, the analysis provides a framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape in the area. The availability of primary care physicians, the quality of care provided by local practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources all contribute to the overall health and well-being of the community. This analysis highlights the importance of data-driven decision-making in improving healthcare access and quality.

To visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Laurel, Mississippi, and surrounding areas, consider using CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, practice types, and resource availability, allowing for a more comprehensive analysis of the overall health score.