39507, Gulfport, Mississippi Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 39507, Gulfport, Mississippi is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 78.68 percent of the residents in 39507 has some form of health insurance. 35.99 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.26 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 39507 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,072 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39507. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,929 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,424 health care providers accessible to residents in 39507, Gulfport, Mississippi.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Gulfport, MS (ZIP Code 39507)

Assessing the overall health landscape within Gulfport, Mississippi, specifically focusing on ZIP code 39507, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers various factors, including physician availability, the quality of primary care services, the integration of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. We will evaluate these elements to determine an overall health score for the region.

The foundation of a healthy community rests on the availability of primary care physicians. In 39507, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. While precise, real-time figures fluctuate, publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and state medical boards provides a general understanding. A lower ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, suggests potential challenges in accessing timely and consistent care. This can lead to delayed diagnoses, increased emergency room visits for preventable conditions, and overall poorer health outcomes. The analysis will seek to identify specific physician counts and compare them against the population data for 39507 to establish a baseline understanding of access.

Primary care availability extends beyond just the number of physicians. The types of practices, their hours of operation, and their acceptance of various insurance plans are also crucial. Are there enough practices accepting Medicaid and Medicare, ensuring access for vulnerable populations? Are evening and weekend appointments available to accommodate working individuals? The quality of care, as assessed by patient satisfaction surveys and clinical outcomes data (where available), is another key consideration. We'll look for information on patient reviews, the presence of patient portals for easy communication, and the adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) to facilitate care coordination.

Standout practices in the area deserve special recognition. These may be clinics or physician groups that demonstrate excellence in patient care, innovation in service delivery, or a strong commitment to community health. Identifying these practices involves analyzing their service offerings, patient testimonials, and any awards or certifications they may have received. For instance, practices employing a team-based approach to care, involving nurses, medical assistants, and social workers, often provide more comprehensive support for patients. The presence of specialty services, such as chronic disease management programs or preventative care initiatives, also contributes to a practice's overall value.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in areas where access to in-person care may be limited. The ability to consult with a physician remotely can improve access to care, especially for those with mobility issues, transportation challenges, or those living in rural areas. The analysis will investigate the availability of telehealth services among local practices, including the types of services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), the ease of use of the platforms, and the insurance coverage for these services. Practices that have embraced telemedicine effectively are likely to have a higher overall health score.

Mental health resources are a vital component of overall well-being. The analysis will assess the availability of mental health providers, including psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors, within the 39507 ZIP code. The presence of mental health clinics, community mental health centers, and partnerships between primary care practices and mental health professionals will be evaluated. The availability of support groups, crisis intervention services, and substance abuse treatment programs will also be considered. Addressing mental health needs is crucial for preventing chronic diseases, reducing suicide rates, and improving overall quality of life.

Another crucial aspect of the assessment involves the social determinants of health. These factors, such as income, education, housing, and access to healthy food, significantly impact health outcomes. While a comprehensive analysis of these factors is beyond the scope of this assessment, their influence on the health of the population in 39507 will be acknowledged. Areas with higher rates of poverty, food insecurity, and inadequate housing may face greater health challenges, which should be factored into the overall health score.

The final health score will be a composite measure, weighting the various factors discussed above. The physician-to-patient ratio, primary care availability, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources will be weighted based on their relative importance. The score will be presented as a relative measure, allowing for comparison with other communities or regions. This score will provide a snapshot of the overall health landscape in 39507, highlighting areas of strength and areas where improvements are needed.

The overall health score will be a starting point for further investigation and action. It can be used by healthcare providers, policymakers, and community organizations to identify gaps in care, develop targeted interventions, and improve the health and well-being of the residents of Gulfport. The score will be updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape and track progress over time.

To gain a visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Gulfport, MS (ZIP code 39507), including physician locations, practice types, and resource availability, consider exploring the capabilities of CartoChrome maps. Their interactive mapping tools can provide valuable insights into the geographical distribution of healthcare resources and help identify areas with limited access to care.