39577, Wiggins, Mississippi Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 39577, Wiggins, Mississippi is 9 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 78.41 percent of the residents in 39577 has some form of health insurance. 42.12 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 47.27 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 39577 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,672 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39577. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,447 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 182 health care providers accessible to residents in 39577, Wiggins, Mississippi.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Wiggins, MS (ZIP Code 39577)

Analyzing the overall health landscape within Wiggins, Mississippi, specifically focusing on ZIP code 39577, requires a comprehensive evaluation of several key factors. This analysis will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, assess the adoption of telemedicine, and examine the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare ecosystem and its strengths and weaknesses.

The cornerstone of any health assessment is the availability of primary care physicians. In Wiggins, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of doctors relative to the population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and a general strain on the healthcare system. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests better access and potentially improved health outcomes. Determining the exact ratio requires data from sources such as the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and state medical boards, which can be difficult to obtain in real-time. However, publicly available data often provides a reasonable estimate.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality and accessibility of primary care practices are paramount. Standout practices are those that consistently demonstrate excellence in patient care, utilize modern technologies, and offer a patient-centered approach. These practices often have a strong reputation within the community, evidenced by positive patient reviews, accreditations, and participation in quality improvement programs. Identifying these practices involves researching online reviews, consulting with local community health organizations, and analyzing data from insurance providers.

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant force in healthcare, particularly in rural areas like Wiggins. Its adoption can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients who face geographical barriers or mobility limitations. The level of telemedicine adoption within the primary care practices in 39577 is a key indicator of the healthcare system's responsiveness to patient needs. Practices that have embraced telemedicine offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, providing greater convenience and flexibility. Evaluating telemedicine adoption requires assessing the availability of virtual appointment options, the types of services offered remotely, and the overall patient experience with these technologies.

Mental health resources are another critical component of overall health. The availability of mental health services, including psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors, is crucial for addressing the growing prevalence of mental health challenges. The assessment must consider the number of mental health providers, the types of services offered (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), and the accessibility of these services. This includes factors like insurance acceptance, wait times for appointments, and the availability of support groups.

The specific practices within the Wiggins area need individual evaluation. Each practice has unique strengths and weaknesses. Some may excel in chronic disease management, while others may specialize in preventative care. Some may have embraced electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals, while others may still rely on more traditional methods. A detailed analysis of each practice’s services, staffing, and patient satisfaction levels is essential for a comprehensive assessment.

The geographical distribution of healthcare resources within the ZIP code is also important. Are primary care practices concentrated in a specific area, or are they distributed throughout the community? This spatial analysis can reveal potential disparities in access to care, particularly for residents in more remote areas. Analyzing the location of practices, transportation options, and public transit routes can help identify potential barriers to care.

Community health initiatives and partnerships play a crucial role in supporting the healthcare system. Local organizations, such as community health centers and non-profit organizations, often provide valuable services, such as health education, outreach programs, and assistance with accessing healthcare. The presence and effectiveness of these initiatives can significantly impact the overall health of the community.

When evaluating the adoption of technology, it's important to consider the use of electronic health records (EHRs). EHRs can improve care coordination, reduce medical errors, and enhance patient communication. Practices that have fully implemented EHRs are often better equipped to provide comprehensive and coordinated care.

The assessment of telemedicine must also consider the types of services offered. Basic virtual consultations are one thing, but the availability of remote monitoring tools and specialized telemedicine programs for chronic conditions is another. The level of technological sophistication within each practice is a key indicator of its ability to adapt to the evolving healthcare landscape.

The evaluation of mental health resources requires careful consideration of the types of providers available. Psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed clinical social workers, and licensed professional counselors all play distinct roles in mental healthcare. The availability of a diverse range of providers ensures that patients can access the specific type of care they need.

The overall health score for Wiggins, Mississippi, and ZIP code 39577 is a complex metric. It is not simply a matter of counting doctors or listing available services. It is a holistic assessment that considers the interplay of all these factors, along with the unique needs of the community. The final score should reflect the overall quality, accessibility, and responsiveness of the healthcare system to the needs of the population.

The final health score should also reflect the availability of specialists. The presence of specialists, such as cardiologists, endocrinologists, and gastroenterologists, can improve the quality of care for patients with complex medical conditions. The availability of specialists can reduce the need for patients to travel long distances for specialized care.

In conclusion, a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare landscape in Wiggins, MS (39577) reveals a complex interplay of factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources all contribute to the overall health score. A thorough understanding of these factors is essential for identifying areas for improvement and ensuring that residents of Wiggins have access to high-quality healthcare.

Want to visualize the healthcare landscape of Wiggins, MS (39577) and surrounding areas? Explore the power of spatial data and gain valuable insights into healthcare access and resource distribution with CartoChrome maps.