38603, Ashland, Mississippi Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 38603, Ashland, Mississippi is 8 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.83 percent of the residents in 38603 has some form of health insurance. 48.79 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 55.56 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 38603 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 494 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 38603. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 574 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 164 health care providers accessible to residents in 38603, Ashland, Mississippi.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Ashland, MS (ZIP Code 38603)

Ashland, Mississippi, nestled in the heart of Benton County, presents a unique landscape for assessing hypertension management. This analysis focuses on the availability of primary care physicians within ZIP Code 38603, evaluating their practices and resources concerning hypertension care, with a specific focus on physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare environment for individuals managing hypertension and to identify areas for potential improvement.

The foundation of effective hypertension management lies in accessible primary care. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. Benton County, being a rural area, likely faces challenges in this regard. National averages suggest a desired ratio of around 1:1300 for primary care physicians. However, in rural settings, this ratio can be significantly higher, potentially hindering timely access to care. Determining the precise ratio for ZIP Code 38603 requires detailed data analysis, including the number of active primary care physicians practicing within the zip code and the estimated population served. This information is vital for understanding the workload on existing physicians and the potential need for additional healthcare providers.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality and approach of primary care practices are paramount. Identifying standout practices requires evaluating several factors. First, consider the adoption of evidence-based guidelines for hypertension management, such as those established by the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology. Are physicians consistently measuring blood pressure accurately? Are they utilizing appropriate diagnostic tools to assess end-organ damage? Are they prescribing medications according to established protocols, and are they actively monitoring patient adherence and response to treatment?

Another key aspect is the implementation of patient-centered care. This includes providing clear and concise patient education about hypertension, its risks, and lifestyle modifications. Does the practice offer educational materials in multiple languages, if necessary? Does the practice have a system for proactively contacting patients with uncontrolled blood pressure? Do physicians and staff take the time to address patient concerns and barriers to adherence? Practices excelling in these areas demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive and personalized hypertension management.

Telemedicine, particularly in rural settings, offers a significant advantage in bridging geographical barriers and improving access to care. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in Ashland is a critical factor. Does the practice offer virtual consultations for follow-up appointments, medication management, and patient education? Does it utilize remote blood pressure monitoring devices to track patient readings at home? Telemedicine can significantly improve patient engagement and facilitate more frequent monitoring, leading to better control of hypertension. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a forward-thinking approach to healthcare delivery.

The intricate link between mental health and hypertension cannot be overlooked. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure control. Therefore, the integration of mental health resources within primary care practices is essential. Does the practice have on-site mental health professionals, or does it have established referral pathways to mental health services in the community? Are physicians trained to screen for mental health conditions and address them appropriately? Practices that recognize the importance of mental well-being in hypertension management are better equipped to provide holistic care.

Furthermore, the availability of ancillary services can impact the quality of hypertension care. Does the practice have access to a registered dietitian or a certified diabetes educator who can provide guidance on dietary modifications and lifestyle changes? Does the practice have a dedicated nurse or medical assistant who can assist with patient education and medication management? The presence of these support staff can free up physicians’ time and enhance the overall patient experience.

Evaluating the insurance landscape within ZIP Code 38603 is also vital. What percentage of the population is insured? What types of insurance are prevalent? The acceptance of various insurance plans by primary care practices can influence access to care. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans are more accessible to a diverse population.

Analyzing the availability of pharmacies within the zip code is another important factor. Are pharmacies easily accessible? Do they offer medication counseling and support services? The proximity and accessibility of pharmacies are crucial for ensuring that patients can obtain their medications and receive the necessary support to manage their condition.

The overall ‘Hypertension Score’ for the primary care landscape in Ashland would be a composite of all these factors. It would involve a detailed assessment of each primary care practice, considering their physician-to-patient ratio, adherence to evidence-based guidelines, patient-centered care approach, telemedicine adoption, integration of mental health resources, availability of ancillary services, insurance acceptance, and pharmacy accessibility.

The creation of such a score requires a comprehensive data collection and analysis process. This would involve gathering information from various sources, including physician surveys, patient interviews, electronic health records, and publicly available data. The data would then be analyzed to identify strengths and weaknesses in the healthcare environment and to develop recommendations for improvement.

In conclusion, managing hypertension effectively in Ashland, Mississippi, requires a multifaceted approach. It necessitates an adequate supply of primary care physicians, a commitment to evidence-based practices, the utilization of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and a patient-centered approach to care. Understanding the specific challenges and opportunities within ZIP Code 38603 is crucial for improving the health and well-being of the community.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Ashland, including the locations of primary care practices, pharmacies, and other relevant resources, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps available on CartoChrome. CartoChrome provides a powerful platform for visualizing and analyzing geographic data, enabling you to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment in your community. Visit CartoChrome today to unlock the power of spatial analysis and discover the healthcare resources available to you.