38851, Houston, Mississippi Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 38851, Houston, Mississippi is 7 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 81.21 percent of the residents in 38851 has some form of health insurance. 41.76 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.83 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 38851 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,258 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 38851. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,732 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 162 health care providers accessible to residents in 38851, Houston, Mississippi.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 38851 and Primary Care Availability in Houston

This analysis evaluates the landscape of hypertension management, focusing on two distinct areas: the availability and quality of primary care within ZIP code 38851 (likely a rural area) and the broader primary care environment in Houston, Texas. The goal is to assess the resources available for patients managing hypertension, considering factors beyond just the presence of doctors.

**ZIP Code 38851: A Rural Perspective**

Assessing the situation in ZIP code 38851 requires a deep dive into the realities of rural healthcare. One of the most significant challenges is the physician-to-patient ratio. In rural areas, this ratio is often significantly lower than in urban centers. This means fewer doctors are available to serve a potentially larger and more geographically dispersed population. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and increased pressure on existing healthcare providers. The impact on hypertension management is direct: fewer opportunities for regular checkups, medication adjustments, and lifestyle counseling.

Beyond the raw numbers, the specific types of primary care practices present are crucial. Are there solo practitioners, small group practices, or larger, integrated healthcare systems? The structure influences the resources available. Integrated systems may offer advantages such as electronic health records that facilitate care coordination, access to specialists, and potentially, more robust patient education programs focused on managing hypertension.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. For a rural population, telemedicine can bridge the geographical gap, allowing patients to connect with their physicians remotely for follow-up appointments, medication management, and even some forms of counseling. The availability of reliable internet access is, of course, a prerequisite. The degree to which local practices have embraced telemedicine, and the types of services they offer via this platform, directly impacts the accessibility of hypertension care.

Mental health resources are often under-resourced in rural areas. Hypertension and mental health are often intertwined. Chronic stress and anxiety can exacerbate high blood pressure, and the challenges of managing a chronic condition like hypertension can contribute to mental health issues. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, and the ease with which patients can access these services, are important components of a holistic approach to hypertension management.

Identifying "standout practices" in ZIP code 38851 requires a nuanced approach. It's not simply about the number of doctors; it's about the quality of care, the patient experience, and the innovative approaches practices have adopted to overcome the challenges of rural healthcare. This includes factors such as patient satisfaction scores, the use of evidence-based guidelines for hypertension management, and the implementation of patient education programs.

**Houston: A Metropolitan Landscape**

The primary care landscape in Houston presents a different set of dynamics. While the physician-to-patient ratio is likely higher than in ZIP code 38851, the sheer size and diversity of the city create their own complexities. Competition among healthcare providers can be intense, potentially driving innovation and improving patient choice. However, it can also lead to fragmentation of care if patients switch between providers frequently.

The types of primary care practices available in Houston are incredibly diverse, from large hospital-affiliated systems to independent practices and concierge medicine models. Each model offers different advantages and disadvantages in terms of access, cost, and the level of personalized care. Patients need to navigate this landscape carefully, considering their individual needs and preferences.

Telemedicine has become increasingly prevalent in Houston, particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic. Many practices now offer virtual appointments, and some have even adopted remote patient monitoring systems to track blood pressure and other vital signs. This technology can be particularly beneficial for patients with hypertension, enabling them to receive more frequent monitoring and timely interventions.

Mental health resources in Houston are generally more abundant than in rural areas, but access can still be a challenge. The city has a diverse range of mental health providers, including therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups. However, factors such as insurance coverage, wait times, and the stigma associated with mental illness can still create barriers to care.

Identifying "standout practices" in Houston involves considering several factors. These include the use of electronic health records, the integration of mental health services, the implementation of patient education programs, and the adoption of innovative technologies such as telemedicine and remote patient monitoring. Patient reviews and satisfaction scores are also important indicators of quality.

**Conclusion: A Call to Action**

Both ZIP code 38851 and Houston present unique challenges and opportunities in the realm of hypertension management. Understanding the specifics of each area – the physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the characteristics of standout practices – is essential for patients seeking effective care.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in these areas, and to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, consider exploring the interactive maps and data visualizations offered by CartoChrome. Their platform provides a powerful tool for analyzing healthcare data, identifying areas of need, and making informed decisions about your health.