39567, Pascagoula, Mississippi Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 39567, Pascagoula, Mississippi is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 81.28 percent of the residents in 39567 has some form of health insurance. 40.44 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 50.66 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 39567 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,774 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39567. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,679 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,868 health care providers accessible to residents in 39567, Pascagoula, Mississippi.

**Overall Health Score Analysis: Pascagoula, MS (ZIP Code 39567)**

Assessing the overall health landscape within Pascagoula, Mississippi (ZIP code 39567) necessitates a multifaceted approach. This analysis evaluates the availability and quality of primary care physicians, considering factors like physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' assessment, informing residents about the strengths and weaknesses of their local healthcare system.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a fundamental indicator of primary care access. A lower ratio, signifying more physicians per capita, generally translates to easier appointment scheduling, reduced wait times, and improved patient-physician relationships. Conversely, a higher ratio can strain resources, potentially leading to delayed care and increased patient frustration. Data from sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and state medical boards are crucial in determining the specific physician-to-patient ratio within Pascagoula. This data, when compared to national and regional averages, provides a critical benchmark for evaluating the adequacy of primary care physician availability.

Identifying standout primary care practices involves evaluating various metrics. Patient reviews, available through platforms like Healthgrades and Vitals, offer valuable insights into patient experiences, encompassing factors such as physician communication, wait times, and overall satisfaction. Accreditation status from organizations like the Joint Commission also indicates a commitment to quality and safety standards. Practices demonstrating a commitment to preventative care, chronic disease management, and patient education are particularly noteworthy. Furthermore, the presence of specialized services, such as on-site laboratory testing or behavioral health integration, can significantly enhance the value of a primary care practice.

Telemedicine adoption is rapidly transforming healthcare delivery, particularly in rural and underserved areas. The ability to consult with a physician remotely, via video or phone, can overcome geographical barriers and improve access to care, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Assessing telemedicine adoption within Pascagoula involves examining the availability of telehealth services offered by local primary care practices, hospitals, and other healthcare providers. This includes evaluating the types of services offered (e.g., virtual visits, remote monitoring), the ease of use of the technology, and the extent to which telemedicine is integrated into the overall care delivery model.

Mental health resources are a critical component of overall well-being, and their availability and accessibility are essential for a healthy community. Assessing the mental health landscape in Pascagoula requires evaluating the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed therapists, and other mental health professionals. This includes examining the availability of outpatient mental health services, such as individual and group therapy, as well as the presence of inpatient psychiatric facilities. Furthermore, it is essential to assess the integration of mental health services into primary care practices, as this can improve early detection and treatment of mental health conditions. The availability of support groups, crisis intervention services, and community outreach programs also contributes to a robust mental health infrastructure.

Evaluating the Overall Health Score for Pascagoula involves synthesizing the information gathered from the various assessment areas. The physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources are all weighted based on their relative importance. A higher score indicates a more robust and accessible healthcare system, while a lower score suggests areas that require improvement. The overall score should be presented in a clear and concise manner, allowing residents to easily understand the strengths and weaknesses of their local healthcare system.

Specific practices within Pascagoula may stand out for their commitment to patient care. For example, a practice with consistently high patient satisfaction scores, a comprehensive range of services, and a strong emphasis on preventative care would likely receive a favorable evaluation. Another practice that has successfully integrated telemedicine into its practice, making it easier for patients to access care remotely, could also be considered a standout. The identification of these standout practices can serve as a model for other providers and help residents make informed decisions about their healthcare choices.

The implementation of telemedicine in Pascagoula can significantly improve access to care. Practices that offer virtual visits, remote monitoring, and other telehealth services can overcome geographical barriers and provide convenient and accessible care to patients. This is particularly important for patients with chronic conditions, who may require frequent monitoring and follow-up appointments. The adoption of telemedicine can also improve efficiency and reduce healthcare costs.

The integration of mental health services into primary care practices is crucial for early detection and treatment of mental health conditions. This can be achieved through the co-location of mental health professionals within primary care practices, the implementation of screening tools for mental health conditions, and the training of primary care physicians in the management of common mental health disorders. This integrated approach can improve patient outcomes and reduce the stigma associated with mental illness.

In conclusion, the Overall Health Score for Pascagoula, MS (ZIP code 39567) reflects a complex interplay of factors. While specific data points would be required to provide a definitive score, the assessment process highlights the importance of physician availability, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. By understanding these factors, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare choices and advocate for improvements in the local healthcare system.

To further explore the healthcare landscape of Pascagoula and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a detailed visual representation of physician locations, practice types, and other relevant data, enabling a deeper understanding of healthcare accessibility within your community.