38868, Shannon, Mississippi Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 38868, Shannon, Mississippi is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.04 percent of the residents in 38868 has some form of health insurance. 37.90 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.99 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 38868 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,743 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 38868. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 880 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 893 health care providers accessible to residents in 38868, Shannon, Mississippi.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 38868 and Primary Care in Shannon

This analysis delves into the landscape of hypertension management within ZIP code 38868, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care, a critical element in controlling this prevalent condition. We will assess physician-to-patient ratios, highlight exemplary practices, examine telemedicine adoption, and evaluate the integration of mental health resources, all crucial factors in determining a "Hypertension Score" for the area. Furthermore, we will specifically consider the primary care situation within the context of Shannon, a key geographic component of this analysis.

The foundation of effective hypertension management rests on accessible and qualified primary care physicians (PCPs). In ZIP code 38868, the physician-to-patient ratio serves as a fundamental indicator. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially compromised continuity of care. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests better access and opportunities for proactive management. Accurate data on this ratio is essential for determining the area's baseline.

Within Shannon, the availability of primary care is particularly significant. Shannon, as a defined area within the ZIP code, may exhibit unique characteristics. This could include a higher concentration of elderly residents, individuals with chronic conditions, or populations with limited access to transportation, all of which can increase the demand for primary care services. Analyzing the number of PCPs specifically serving Shannon, coupled with the demographic profile of its residents, provides a more granular understanding of the local situation.

Identifying standout practices within 38868 is crucial. These practices often exemplify best practices in hypertension management, potentially serving as models for other providers. We must look for clinics that demonstrate a proactive approach, such as regular blood pressure screenings, patient education programs, and the use of evidence-based treatment guidelines. Practices that actively engage patients in their care, encouraging lifestyle modifications and medication adherence, should be highlighted. Furthermore, the adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) with features like automated alerts for elevated blood pressure readings and medication reminders can significantly improve patient outcomes.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in expanding access to care, particularly for patients in rural or underserved areas. The extent of telemedicine adoption among PCPs in 38868 is a key factor in our analysis. Practices offering virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and online patient portals can improve convenience and facilitate more frequent communication between patients and their physicians. The availability of these services can be particularly beneficial for patients with hypertension, allowing for more frequent monitoring and timely adjustments to treatment plans. The degree to which Shannon benefits from this technology is also important.

The intricate link between hypertension and mental health cannot be ignored. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can exacerbate hypertension and hinder treatment adherence. Therefore, the integration of mental health resources within primary care practices is a critical component of a comprehensive hypertension management strategy. Practices that offer on-site mental health services, or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals, are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients. The availability of these resources, both within Shannon and throughout the broader ZIP code, directly impacts the "Hypertension Score."

The "Hypertension Score" is not a simple numerical value but a multifaceted assessment. It considers the physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of PCPs in Shannon, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. Each of these factors contributes to a comprehensive picture of the area's capacity to effectively manage hypertension. The higher the score, the better the overall environment for hypertension control.

Data collection is essential to accurately assess the situation. This includes gathering information on the number of PCPs, their specialties, the number of patients they serve, the services they offer, and their adoption of technology. Publicly available data from sources such as the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), and state medical boards can be used. Patient surveys and interviews with physicians can provide valuable insights into the quality of care and the challenges faced by both patients and providers.

Analyzing the collected data requires a systematic approach. The physician-to-patient ratio should be calculated. Practices should be evaluated based on their adherence to evidence-based guidelines, their use of technology, and their patient satisfaction scores. Telemedicine adoption rates should be determined, and the availability of mental health resources should be assessed. The analysis should then synthesize these findings into a comprehensive "Hypertension Score," reflecting the overall quality of hypertension management within ZIP code 38868, with specific attention paid to the primary care landscape in Shannon.

The findings of this analysis can inform various stakeholders. Healthcare providers can use the information to identify areas for improvement and implement best practices. Patients can use the information to make informed decisions about their healthcare. Policymakers can use the information to allocate resources and develop strategies to improve access to care and promote hypertension control. Community organizations can use the information to raise awareness about hypertension and advocate for improved healthcare services.

The "Hypertension Score" is not static; it is a dynamic measure that should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. Regular monitoring and evaluation are essential to track progress, identify emerging challenges, and ensure that healthcare services are meeting the needs of the community. The goal is to continuously improve the quality of hypertension management and reduce the burden of this preventable condition.

The complexity of this analysis necessitates robust data visualization tools. Understanding the geographic distribution of resources, the patient demographics, and the performance of individual practices can be greatly enhanced through interactive maps. These maps can reveal patterns and trends that might otherwise be missed, providing valuable insights for healthcare providers, policymakers, and patients alike.

To gain a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of healthcare resources within ZIP code 38868, including the specific situation in Shannon, and to visualize the factors contributing to the "Hypertension Score," we recommend exploring the power of interactive mapping.
**Click here to explore the area using CartoChrome maps and gain a visual understanding of the data.**