39564, Ocean Springs, Mississippi Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 39564, Ocean Springs, Mississippi is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.80 percent of the residents in 39564 has some form of health insurance. 28.77 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.54 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 39564 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 10,531 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39564. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 6,971 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,599 health care providers accessible to residents in 39564, Ocean Springs, Mississippi.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Ocean Springs, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39564)

Ocean Springs, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39564), presents a unique profile when assessing its overall health landscape. This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care physicians, examining physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, evaluating telemedicine adoption, and assessing the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to provide an "Overall Health Score" based on these factors, offering a comprehensive view of the community's access to and quality of healthcare.

The foundation of any healthy community lies in its primary care infrastructure. In Ocean Springs, the physician-to-patient ratio serves as a crucial indicator. While precise, up-to-the-minute data fluctuates, publicly available information suggests a potential shortage of primary care physicians compared to the national average. This means that residents might experience longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced access to preventative care. This shortage necessitates a careful examination of existing resources and a focus on strategies to improve access.

Several primary care practices in Ocean Springs stand out for their commitment to patient care. These practices often distinguish themselves through factors like patient satisfaction scores, accreditation, and the range of services offered. Some may boast advanced diagnostic capabilities, while others prioritize a patient-centered approach, fostering strong doctor-patient relationships. Evaluating these practices requires a nuanced approach, considering both quantitative metrics (like appointment availability) and qualitative factors (like patient reviews and staff responsiveness).

Telemedicine, the delivery of healthcare services remotely via technology, has become increasingly important, especially in areas with limited access to care. Ocean Springs’ adoption of telemedicine is a key factor in its overall health score. Examining the availability of virtual appointments, the types of services offered remotely (e.g., consultations, follow-ups), and the technological infrastructure supporting telemedicine (e.g., ease of use, security) is essential. A higher adoption rate of telemedicine can mitigate the impact of physician shortages and improve access to care for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges.

Mental health resources are a critical component of overall health. Assessing the availability of mental health services in Ocean Springs requires investigating the number of psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors practicing in the area. Additionally, the presence of community mental health centers, support groups, and crisis intervention services is essential. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices, such as offering on-site counseling or referral services, is also a positive indicator. The accessibility and affordability of these resources significantly impact the community's well-being.

The "Overall Health Score" for Ocean Springs, based on these factors, is a complex calculation. The physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of standout practices, telemedicine adoption rates, and the strength of mental health resources all contribute to the final assessment. A lower physician-to-patient ratio, a robust telemedicine infrastructure, readily available mental health services, and a strong presence of high-quality primary care practices would contribute to a higher score. Conversely, a shortage of physicians, limited telemedicine options, and inadequate mental health support would negatively impact the score.

To improve the overall health score, Ocean Springs could consider several strategies. Recruiting and retaining primary care physicians is paramount. Incentivizing physicians to practice in the area through loan forgiveness programs, attractive compensation packages, and support for establishing practices can help address the shortage. Expanding telemedicine capabilities, including offering a wider range of virtual services and improving the technological infrastructure, can also enhance access to care.

Furthermore, strengthening mental health resources is essential. This includes increasing the number of mental health professionals, expanding the availability of community mental health centers, and integrating mental health services within primary care practices. Promoting mental health awareness and reducing the stigma associated with seeking help are also crucial.

The availability of data and the ability to visualize it are essential for understanding and addressing health disparities. Tools that allow for the mapping of healthcare resources, population demographics, and health outcomes are invaluable for identifying areas of need and developing targeted interventions. Access to this kind of information is critical for healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members alike.

The overall health score is not a static measure; it’s a dynamic reflection of the community's ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access and quality. Regular assessments, data analysis, and community engagement are essential to track progress, identify challenges, and implement effective solutions. The goal is to create a healthier community for all residents.

For a deeper dive into the healthcare landscape of Ocean Springs and to visualize the distribution of resources, consider exploring the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. These maps can provide valuable insights into physician locations, practice specialties, and other relevant data points, empowering you to make informed decisions about your healthcare.