39771, Walthall, Mississippi Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 39771, Walthall, Mississippi is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 39771 has some form of health insurance. 60.17 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 55.93 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 39771 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 31 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39771. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 39 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 118 health care providers accessible to residents in 39771, Walthall, Mississippi.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 39771 and Primary Care Availability in Walthall

Assessing the overall health landscape within ZIP code 39771 and the broader context of primary care availability in Walthall County requires a multifaceted approach. We must move beyond simple metrics and delve into the nuances of access, quality, and the integration of modern healthcare practices. This analysis will provide an 'Overall Health Score' perspective, acknowledging the inherent complexities of rural healthcare delivery.

ZIP code 39771, encompassing the town of Tylertown, Mississippi, faces challenges common to rural communities. A primary concern is the physician-to-patient ratio. Data suggests a potential shortage of primary care physicians, a critical factor influencing the 'Overall Health Score.' This ratio directly impacts appointment wait times, the ability to establish consistent patient-physician relationships, and the overall continuity of care. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to delayed diagnoses, poorer management of chronic conditions, and increased reliance on emergency room services.

The availability of specialists further compounds the issue. Rural areas often struggle to attract and retain specialists, forcing residents to travel significant distances for specialized care. This geographical barrier impacts access to crucial services like cardiology, dermatology, and mental health, negatively affecting the 'Overall Health Score.' The lack of specialized care contributes to poorer health outcomes and increased healthcare costs in the long run.

Within the existing healthcare infrastructure, identifying standout practices is crucial. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, innovative service delivery, and community engagement. They may prioritize preventative care, offer extended hours, or actively participate in community health initiatives. Assessing the quality of care necessitates examining patient satisfaction scores, the implementation of evidence-based practices, and the adherence to established clinical guidelines. Practices excelling in these areas contribute positively to the 'Overall Health Score.'

Telemedicine adoption is another critical element. The ability to provide remote consultations, monitoring, and follow-up care can significantly improve access to healthcare, particularly in underserved areas. The integration of telemedicine can reduce travel burdens, improve patient convenience, and facilitate timely interventions. Practices actively embracing telemedicine technologies are likely to experience improved patient outcomes and contribute to a higher 'Overall Health Score.' The success of telemedicine, however, depends on factors such as broadband internet access, patient digital literacy, and the integration of telehealth platforms into existing workflows.

Mental health resources are a significant concern in rural communities. The prevalence of mental health disorders often exceeds national averages, yet access to mental health professionals is often limited. The lack of psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors can lead to untreated mental illness, contributing to a decline in the 'Overall Health Score.' The availability of mental health services, including counseling, medication management, and support groups, is essential for promoting overall well-being. Community partnerships, such as collaborations with schools, churches, and social service agencies, can help expand access to mental health resources.

Beyond physician availability, the 'Overall Health Score' is influenced by broader social determinants of health. These include factors such as socioeconomic status, access to healthy food, housing quality, and environmental conditions. Areas with higher rates of poverty, food insecurity, and substandard housing often experience poorer health outcomes. Addressing these social determinants requires a holistic approach that involves community-based interventions, public health initiatives, and collaborative efforts between healthcare providers, social service agencies, and local government.

Primary care availability in Walthall County, of which Tylertown is a part, is a key determinant of the county's overall health profile. A robust primary care system acts as the gateway to healthcare, providing preventative care, managing chronic conditions, and coordinating referrals to specialists. Assessing the adequacy of primary care requires examining the number of primary care physicians, the geographic distribution of clinics, and the accessibility of services for all residents.

The utilization of electronic health records (EHRs) is another factor influencing the 'Overall Health Score.' EHRs facilitate the secure exchange of patient information, improve care coordination, and support data-driven decision-making. Practices that have successfully implemented EHRs are better equipped to manage patient populations, track outcomes, and identify areas for improvement. The interoperability of EHR systems across different healthcare providers is crucial for seamless care transitions and improved patient outcomes.

Public health initiatives play a vital role in promoting the 'Overall Health Score.' These initiatives may include disease prevention programs, health education campaigns, and community outreach efforts. Collaboration between healthcare providers, public health agencies, and community organizations is essential for addressing public health challenges and improving the health of the population. Examples of successful initiatives include vaccination programs, chronic disease management programs, and efforts to promote healthy lifestyles.

The financial sustainability of healthcare practices is another factor to consider. Rural healthcare providers often face financial challenges, including lower reimbursement rates, higher operating costs, and workforce shortages. Ensuring the financial viability of healthcare practices is essential for maintaining access to care and attracting and retaining qualified healthcare professionals. Policy interventions, such as increased funding for rural healthcare programs and incentives for providers to practice in underserved areas, can help address these financial challenges.

In conclusion, assessing the 'Overall Health Score' for doctors in ZIP code 39771 and primary care availability in Walthall County requires a comprehensive evaluation of various factors. These include physician-to-patient ratios, the availability of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the influence of social determinants of health. Addressing the challenges and promoting the strengths of the healthcare system requires a collaborative approach that involves healthcare providers, public health agencies, community organizations, and policymakers. The goal is to create a healthcare environment that provides accessible, high-quality, and patient-centered care for all residents.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in 39771 and Walthall County, including physician locations, access to care, and demographic data, explore the power of spatial analysis with CartoChrome maps. Gain deeper insights and make informed decisions by visualizing the data.