38921, Charleston, Mississippi Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 38921, Charleston, Mississippi is 6 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 80.28 percent of the residents in 38921 has some form of health insurance. 49.21 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 40.64 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 38921 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,210 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 38921. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 593 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 72 health care providers accessible to residents in 38921, Charleston, Mississippi.

**Hypertension Score Analysis: Charleston, Mississippi (ZIP Code 38921)**

Analyzing the healthcare landscape of Charleston, Mississippi (ZIP Code 38921), requires a multifaceted approach, particularly when assessing the management of hypertension. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians, physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and identify standout practices within the community. The ultimate goal is to provide a "Hypertension Score" assessment, offering insights into the quality and accessibility of care for individuals managing this prevalent condition.

The cornerstone of effective hypertension management is a robust primary care infrastructure. In Charleston, the availability of primary care physicians is a critical factor. A low physician-to-patient ratio can significantly impact the ability of patients to receive timely appointments, regular check-ups, and consistent monitoring – all crucial for controlling blood pressure. Researching the number of practicing primary care physicians within the ZIP code, and comparing this number to the population size, provides a baseline for understanding access to care. This ratio, when compared to state and national averages, reveals the relative strength or weakness of the local healthcare system in addressing hypertension.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care practices is paramount. Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several key metrics. These include the utilization of evidence-based guidelines for hypertension treatment, the implementation of patient education programs, and the use of electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient progress and facilitate communication. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to these best practices are more likely to achieve positive patient outcomes. Reviews from patients, along with data on patient satisfaction and adherence to treatment plans, can also contribute to a comprehensive understanding of practice quality.

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool for improving access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas like Charleston. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care physicians can significantly enhance hypertension management. Virtual consultations allow for remote monitoring of blood pressure, medication adjustments, and patient education, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. The extent to which practices in Charleston utilize telemedicine platforms, the types of services offered remotely, and the patient experience with these technologies are all crucial elements in assessing the overall hypertension score.

The interplay between physical and mental health is undeniable, especially in the context of hypertension. Stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure control. Therefore, the integration of mental health resources within primary care practices is essential. The availability of on-site mental health professionals, referrals to mental health specialists, and the implementation of screening tools for mental health conditions all contribute to a more holistic approach to hypertension management. Practices that recognize and address the mental health needs of their patients are better equipped to support long-term blood pressure control.

Evaluating the specific practices within Charleston requires a deeper dive. Identifying practices that excel in hypertension management involves a combination of publicly available data, such as physician directories and hospital websites, along with potentially utilizing resources like the Mississippi State Department of Health. Analyzing their websites, patient reviews, and available information about their services provides a glimpse into their approach to hypertension care. Practices that have a dedicated focus on hypertension management, offer comprehensive patient education, and actively engage in quality improvement initiatives should be highlighted.

For instance, a practice might have a dedicated hypertension clinic, offering specialized care and support. Another might have a robust patient education program, providing resources and tools to help patients understand and manage their condition. Yet another might be at the forefront of telemedicine adoption, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring services. Identifying these standout practices, and understanding their specific strategies, provides valuable insights into the overall quality of hypertension care in Charleston.

The "Hypertension Score" for Charleston, Mississippi, is a composite assessment. It is influenced by the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. A high score indicates a strong healthcare system, with readily available and high-quality care. A lower score suggests areas where improvements are needed, such as increasing physician availability, enhancing telemedicine adoption, or integrating mental health services.

The specific score would be derived from a weighted analysis of the factors discussed. For example, physician-to-patient ratio might account for 25% of the score, the quality of primary care practices 35%, telemedicine adoption 20%, and the integration of mental health resources 20%. The weighting would be based on the relative importance of each factor in achieving optimal hypertension control.

This analysis provides a snapshot of the current state of hypertension management in Charleston, Mississippi. It highlights the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system and identifies areas where improvements can be made. It also serves as a valuable resource for patients seeking care and for healthcare providers striving to improve their services.

For a comprehensive visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Charleston, Mississippi, including the locations of primary care physicians, the distribution of patient populations, and other relevant data, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome. Their maps provide a powerful tool for visualizing and analyzing healthcare data, enabling a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities in hypertension management within the community.