38617, Coahoma, Mississippi Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 38617, Coahoma, Mississippi is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 78.06 percent of the residents in 38617 has some form of health insurance. 61.04 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 25.82 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 38617 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 193 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 38617. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 74 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 316 health care providers accessible to residents in 38617, Coahoma, Mississippi.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: ZIP Code 38617 & Coahoma Primary Care

This analysis delves into the landscape of hypertension management within ZIP Code 38617, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care, a crucial factor in controlling this prevalent condition. The assessment considers physician-to-patient ratios, identifies standout practices, examines telemedicine adoption, and evaluates the presence of integrated mental health resources. The ultimate goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the resources available to residents of this area grappling with hypertension.

The foundation of effective hypertension management rests on accessible and high-quality primary care. Within ZIP Code 38617, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of access. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced opportunities for preventative care, and potentially, poorer blood pressure control. Determining the exact ratio requires detailed data, but publicly available resources and local health department reports can offer estimates. This initial step is crucial for understanding the baseline level of access within the community.

Several factors contribute to the overall quality of primary care. The presence of board-certified physicians, particularly in internal medicine and family medicine, is a strong indicator of expertise. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, such as those focused on hypertension control, are often better equipped to deliver effective care. Furthermore, the availability of on-site diagnostic services, like electrocardiograms (EKGs) and point-of-care blood pressure monitoring, streamlines the diagnostic process and facilitates timely interventions.

Identifying standout practices involves a deeper dive into the specific characteristics of each clinic. Practices that have implemented patient-centered medical home models, emphasizing coordinated care and patient involvement, often demonstrate superior outcomes. These models typically involve dedicated care teams, including nurses, medical assistants, and care coordinators, working collaboratively to manage patients' health. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) is another critical component, facilitating data tracking, medication management, and communication among healthcare providers.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas like Coahoma County, where geographical barriers can limit access to care. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and online patient portals can significantly improve access and convenience for patients. Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication adjustments, and patient education, reducing the burden on both patients and providers. The extent of telemedicine adoption within 38617 needs thorough investigation to determine its impact on hypertension control.

The connection between mental health and hypertension is well-established. Chronic stress and anxiety can elevate blood pressure, making it more difficult to manage. Therefore, the integration of mental health resources within primary care practices is essential. Practices that offer on-site behavioral health services, such as counseling or psychiatric consultations, or that have established referral pathways to mental health specialists, are better positioned to provide holistic care. Assessing the availability and accessibility of these resources is a key component of this analysis.

Primary care availability in Coahoma County, which encompasses ZIP Code 38617, is intrinsically linked to the overall health of the population. The county's demographics, including age distribution, socioeconomic factors, and prevalence of chronic diseases, must be considered when evaluating primary care access and quality. The presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or other safety-net providers, which often serve vulnerable populations, is a significant factor. These facilities typically offer comprehensive services and may have a greater focus on preventative care and chronic disease management.

Data collection is paramount to a comprehensive analysis. Information from various sources, including the Mississippi State Department of Health, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), and local healthcare providers, is essential. Patient satisfaction surveys, if available, can provide valuable insights into the patient experience. Furthermore, interviews with healthcare professionals and community stakeholders can offer a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the local healthcare system.

The analysis should also consider the availability of resources outside of traditional primary care settings. Community health programs, such as those focused on nutrition education, exercise promotion, and smoking cessation, can play a vital role in preventing and managing hypertension. The presence of these programs and their accessibility to residents of 38617 should be evaluated.

The assessment should also evaluate the degree to which primary care practices utilize evidence-based guidelines for hypertension management. This includes the use of recommended medications, the frequency of blood pressure monitoring, and the implementation of lifestyle interventions. Practices that adhere to these guidelines are more likely to achieve optimal blood pressure control and reduce the risk of cardiovascular complications.

The final "Hypertension Score" should be a composite metric, reflecting the various factors discussed above. It should incorporate the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care practices, the extent of telemedicine adoption, the availability of mental health resources, and the presence of community health programs. This score can be used to identify areas for improvement and to guide interventions aimed at enhancing hypertension management within ZIP Code 38617.

This analysis, however, is just the beginning. The healthcare landscape is dynamic. Regular updates and ongoing monitoring are essential to ensure that the information remains accurate and relevant. The findings of this analysis can be used to inform policy decisions, to guide resource allocation, and to empower residents of 38617 to take control of their health.

To visualize the geographic distribution of primary care resources, access the physician locations, and analyze the demographic data, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome can help you understand the spatial relationships between healthcare providers and the population, providing a powerful tool for improving hypertension management in Coahoma County.