39560, Long Beach, Mississippi Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 39560, Long Beach, Mississippi is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.00 percent of the residents in 39560 has some form of health insurance. 35.79 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.34 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 39560 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,500 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39560. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,833 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,955 health care providers accessible to residents in 39560, Long Beach, Mississippi.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Long Beach, MS (ZIP Code 39560)

Analyzing the overall health landscape of Long Beach, Mississippi, specifically within the 39560 ZIP code, requires a multifaceted approach. We'll assess the availability and quality of primary care, a cornerstone of preventative and ongoing healthcare, alongside the broader health resources within the community. This analysis will culminate in an "Overall Health Score" assessment, reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio & Primary Care Access:**

A critical indicator of health access is the physician-to-patient ratio. While precise, real-time data is often proprietary, publicly available resources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) can offer estimates. The 39560 ZIP code, being a part of a larger coastal region, likely experiences fluctuations in physician availability due to factors like tourism and seasonal population shifts. A low physician-to-patient ratio (i.e., a higher number of patients per physician) often signals potential challenges in accessing timely appointments and comprehensive care. This can lead to delayed diagnoses and treatment, exacerbating health issues.

Primary care availability extends beyond simply the number of physicians. It also considers the accessibility of clinics, appointment scheduling processes, and the acceptance of various insurance plans. Long wait times for appointments and limited acceptance of insurance can act as significant barriers to care, particularly for vulnerable populations. Assessing the presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) and their role in serving underserved communities is crucial. FQHCs typically offer a sliding fee scale and comprehensive services, including primary care, dental, and behavioral health, which can significantly improve access.

**Standout Practices & Service Quality:**

Identifying standout practices requires evaluating several factors. This includes the quality of care, patient satisfaction, and the adoption of innovative practices. Reviews from patients, available on platforms like Healthgrades or Vitals, offer valuable insights into patient experiences, including wait times, communication with staff, and the overall quality of care. Accreditation from organizations like the Joint Commission or the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC) indicates a commitment to quality and safety standards.

Furthermore, the adoption of technology and innovative approaches can differentiate practices. Electronic health records (EHRs) are now standard, but the sophistication of their implementation varies. Practices that effectively utilize EHRs for care coordination, patient portals, and data analysis often demonstrate improved patient outcomes. The integration of chronic disease management programs, preventive care initiatives, and specialized services (e.g., women's health, geriatric care) also contributes to a higher overall health score.

**Telemedicine Adoption & its Impact:**

Telemedicine has emerged as a transformative force in healthcare, particularly in areas with limited access to care. The adoption of telemedicine in Long Beach, MS, is a critical factor to assess. This includes the availability of virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring, and online patient portals. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to connect with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access for those with mobility issues or limited transportation options.

The extent to which local practices have embraced telemedicine, and the types of services offered, are important considerations. Are virtual appointments available for routine check-ups, follow-up visits, and medication management? Does the practice offer remote monitoring for chronic conditions like diabetes or hypertension? The availability and accessibility of telemedicine can significantly impact the overall health score, particularly for patients in rural or underserved areas.

**Mental Health Resources & Support:**

Mental health is an integral part of overall health. The availability and accessibility of mental health resources in Long Beach are crucial. This includes the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors. Are there local mental health clinics or community mental health centers? Do primary care physicians offer integrated behavioral health services, or are they able to refer patients to appropriate specialists?

The prevalence of mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders, and the availability of support services, such as support groups and crisis intervention, also need to be assessed. The existence of programs addressing specific needs, such as veterans' mental health or addiction treatment, can significantly impact the overall health score. The stigma surrounding mental health often prevents individuals from seeking help; therefore, the availability of accessible, affordable, and culturally sensitive mental health services is paramount.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

Based on the above analysis, assigning an "Overall Health Score" requires a comprehensive evaluation of the factors discussed. The score should reflect the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem. A high score would indicate a robust healthcare system with a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, accessible primary care, standout practices offering quality services, widespread telemedicine adoption, and ample mental health resources.

A lower score would signal challenges in one or more of these areas, such as limited access to primary care, long wait times for appointments, a lack of telemedicine options, or insufficient mental health support. The score should be considered a dynamic measure, subject to change as the healthcare landscape evolves.

**Conclusion:**

The overall health of a community is a complex interplay of factors, and a thorough understanding of the healthcare ecosystem is essential for promoting well-being. By analyzing physician availability, primary care access, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, we can gain valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape in Long Beach, MS (39560). This analysis provides a foundation for identifying areas for improvement and developing strategies to enhance the health and well-being of the community.

To visualize and further analyze the healthcare landscape of Long Beach and the surrounding areas, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a detailed, geographically-specific view of healthcare resources, helping you to identify access gaps and understand the distribution of services within the community.