38746, Gunnison, Mississippi Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 38746, Gunnison, Mississippi is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.37 percent of the residents in 38746 has some form of health insurance. 64.55 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 31.95 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 38746 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 120 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 38746. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 64 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 357 health care providers accessible to residents in 38746, Gunnison, Mississippi.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Gunnison, MS (ZIP Code 38746)

This analysis delves into the landscape of hypertension management within ZIP code 38746 (Gunnison, Mississippi), focusing on the availability of primary care physicians and related resources. Our goal is to assess the overall "Hypertension Score" reflecting the community's capacity to effectively address this prevalent health concern. This score considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial elements for successful hypertension control.

Gunnison, like many rural communities, faces significant challenges in healthcare access. The scarcity of primary care physicians is a primary concern. While precise physician-to-patient ratios fluctuate, the general trend indicates a shortage. This directly impacts the ability of residents to receive timely screenings, diagnoses, and ongoing management of hypertension. Long wait times for appointments and the potential for geographical barriers to care further exacerbate the situation. The lack of readily available primary care providers necessitates a careful evaluation of existing resources and the identification of strategies to improve access.

Analyzing individual practices within the ZIP code is crucial. Identifying "standout practices" that demonstrate excellence in hypertension management is essential. These practices may exhibit a commitment to evidence-based guidelines, employing comprehensive screening protocols, utilizing patient education materials, and providing robust follow-up care. They might have dedicated hypertension management programs, including specialized nurses or other healthcare professionals focused on patient education and support. The presence of these standout practices can significantly improve the overall Hypertension Score for the community.

Telemedicine represents a vital tool for bridging the healthcare gap in rural areas like Gunnison. The adoption of telemedicine technologies by local primary care practices can substantially improve hypertension management. Telemedicine allows for remote consultations, medication management, and remote patient monitoring. This can reduce the need for frequent in-person visits, making care more accessible for patients with mobility issues, transportation challenges, or those living in remote areas. The degree to which practices have embraced telemedicine, including the types of technologies utilized and the frequency of its use, will significantly influence the Hypertension Score.

The intricate connection between hypertension and mental health cannot be ignored. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can contribute to elevated blood pressure and hinder effective hypertension management. The availability of mental health resources within the community is a critical factor. Primary care practices that integrate mental health screenings and referrals into their hypertension management protocols are better positioned to provide comprehensive care. The presence of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, within the community or through telehealth services, directly impacts the ability of patients to receive holistic care.

The evaluation of the Hypertension Score must also consider the availability of resources outside of primary care practices. Access to pharmacies, healthy food options, and community-based health education programs plays a vital role in supporting patients in managing their hypertension. The presence of these resources can empower patients to take a more active role in their health, leading to improved outcomes.

The overall Hypertension Score for Gunnison, Mississippi, will be a composite measure reflecting the interplay of these factors. A low score would indicate significant challenges in access to care, limited resources, and a lack of integration of best practices. A high score would reflect a community with readily available primary care, a commitment to evidence-based management, the effective utilization of telemedicine, integrated mental health resources, and a supportive environment for patient self-management.

The specific practices within ZIP code 38746 require a deeper dive. Identifying the number of primary care physicians actively practicing, the patient volumes they manage, and the specific services they offer is the first step. Gathering data on telemedicine adoption, the integration of mental health services, and the availability of patient education materials is crucial. This data can be obtained through surveys, interviews, and a review of practice websites and patient records.

Furthermore, assessing the utilization of these resources is important. Even if resources are available, they are not effective if patients are not using them. Data on patient appointment adherence, medication compliance, and blood pressure control rates can help assess the effectiveness of the available resources.

The analysis should also consider the demographics of the population served. Understanding the age distribution, socioeconomic status, and racial and ethnic makeup of the community can help identify specific needs and tailor interventions. For instance, certain populations may face greater barriers to care or have a higher prevalence of hypertension.

In conclusion, improving the Hypertension Score for Gunnison, Mississippi, requires a multi-faceted approach. Addressing the physician shortage, promoting the adoption of telemedicine, integrating mental health services, and fostering a supportive environment for patient self-management are all essential. Continuous monitoring and evaluation of these factors are necessary to track progress and ensure that the community is effectively addressing the challenges of hypertension.

Ready to visualize the healthcare landscape of Gunnison and gain a deeper understanding of the resources available? Explore the power of data visualization with CartoChrome maps. See the spatial distribution of healthcare providers, patient demographics, and other relevant factors. Unlock valuable insights and make informed decisions.