39520, Bay Saint Louis, Mississippi Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 39520, Bay Saint Louis, Mississippi is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.40 percent of the residents in 39520 has some form of health insurance. 42.17 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.59 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 39520 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,118 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39520. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,017 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,882 health care providers accessible to residents in 39520, Bay Saint Louis, Mississippi.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 39520 & Primary Care Availability in Bay Saint Louis

Evaluating the overall health landscape within ZIP Code 39520, encompassing the city of Bay Saint Louis, Mississippi, necessitates a multifaceted approach. We must consider various factors, from the accessibility of primary care physicians to the availability of specialized services and the integration of modern healthcare technologies. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score," considering the specific characteristics of this community.

The cornerstone of any healthy community is a robust primary care infrastructure. Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times, reduced access to preventative care, and potential delays in diagnosis and treatment. While precise, up-to-the-minute physician-to-patient ratios fluctuate, publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and state medical boards can provide estimates. Research should be conducted to determine the current ratio within 39520. This number will be a significant factor in determining the overall health score.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality and accessibility of existing primary care practices are paramount. Are there any standout practices in Bay Saint Louis that consistently receive high patient satisfaction ratings? Are they accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate diverse schedules? Are they equipped with modern diagnostic tools and electronic health records (EHR) systems? These factors contribute to the overall patient experience and the effectiveness of healthcare delivery.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial area to examine. The ability to access healthcare remotely, via video consultations or phone calls, can be a game-changer, especially for communities with geographical limitations or mobility challenges. Does 39520 have practices that offer telemedicine services? Are these services readily accessible and affordable? The availability of telemedicine can significantly improve access to care, particularly for routine check-ups, medication management, and follow-up appointments.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked, yet critical, component of overall health. The availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors is essential for addressing mental health concerns. Are there sufficient mental health professionals practicing within 39520? Are there any community mental health centers or support groups available? Access to mental healthcare is vital for the well-being of the community.

Specialty care availability is another critical factor. While primary care forms the foundation, access to specialists is essential for managing chronic conditions and addressing complex health issues. Are there specialists in areas such as cardiology, dermatology, and gastroenterology practicing within or near 39520? The proximity and availability of specialists contribute to the overall health score.

The socioeconomic factors of the community must also be considered. The prevalence of health insurance coverage, the poverty rate, and the level of education all influence health outcomes. Communities with higher rates of uninsured individuals or lower levels of education often experience poorer health outcomes. Data from the U.S. Census Bureau and other sources can provide insights into these socioeconomic factors within 39520.

Public health initiatives and community health programs play a vital role in promoting overall health. Are there any local programs focused on preventative care, such as free health screenings or vaccination campaigns? Are there any community-based organizations working to address specific health needs within the community? These initiatives can significantly improve the health of the community.

The integration of technology is another key factor. Does the community have access to a robust broadband infrastructure? This is crucial for telemedicine and accessing online health information. The ability to access and utilize digital health resources can improve health outcomes.

To determine the "Overall Health Score" for 39520, we would need to assign weighted scores to each of the factors discussed above. For example, physician-to-patient ratios could be assigned a significant weight, reflecting their importance in access to care. Telemedicine adoption could also be weighted heavily, given its potential to improve access. The presence of mental health resources and the availability of specialty care would also be assigned significant weights. The socioeconomic factors and public health initiatives would be considered, as well. The final score would be a composite of all these factors, providing a comprehensive assessment of the health landscape.

The analysis should also consider the specific needs of the community. For example, if there is a significant elderly population, the availability of geriatric care specialists would be especially important. If there is a high prevalence of chronic diseases, the availability of specialists in those areas would be critical.

The data gathered should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. New practices may open, telemedicine adoption may increase, and new community health programs may be launched. The "Overall Health Score" should be a dynamic assessment, reflecting the evolving health needs of the community.

By examining these various factors, we can gain a comprehensive understanding of the health landscape in Bay Saint Louis and the surrounding ZIP Code 39520. This analysis can be used to identify areas of strength and weakness, and to inform efforts to improve the health and well-being of the community.

This type of data-driven analysis, however, can be complex. Visualizing the data in an intuitive and accessible way is crucial for understanding the health landscape.