39145, Pelahatchie, Mississippi Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 39145, Pelahatchie, Mississippi is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.23 percent of the residents in 39145 has some form of health insurance. 40.62 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.68 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 39145 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,244 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39145. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 961 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 956 health care providers accessible to residents in 39145, Pelahatchie, Mississippi.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Pelahatchie, MS (ZIP Code 39145)

Analyzing the hypertension landscape within Pelahatchie, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39145) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will assess the availability and quality of primary care, focusing on factors crucial for managing hypertension, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and access to mental health resources. The ultimate goal is to provide a nuanced 'Hypertension Score' assessment for the area.

The foundation of hypertension management lies in accessible and quality primary care. In Pelahatchie, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical starting point. While precise figures fluctuate, the overall ratio likely presents a challenge. Rural areas often face a shortage of primary care physicians, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and increased patient burdens. This scarcity impacts the ability to provide timely screenings, diagnoses, and ongoing management of hypertension.

Evaluating the existing primary care practices in the area reveals further insights. Several factors contribute to a practice's effectiveness in hypertension management. The presence of certified nurse practitioners (CNPs) and physician assistants (PAs) can help to mitigate the impact of physician shortages. Practices that embrace a team-based approach, including nurses, medical assistants, and potentially pharmacists, can also improve patient outcomes. Furthermore, the availability of on-site diagnostic tools, such as blood pressure monitors and electrocardiograms (EKGs), streamlines the diagnostic process.

One standout practice might be Pelahatchie Family Clinic, which is likely to be a primary care provider in the area. A practice that actively promotes patient education, provides detailed explanations of treatment plans, and offers readily available educational materials would receive a higher score. The implementation of structured follow-up protocols, including regular blood pressure checks and medication reviews, also demonstrates a commitment to effective hypertension management.

Telemedicine adoption is a significant factor in the 'Hypertension Score'. Telemedicine offers numerous advantages, particularly in rural settings. It can enhance access to care by reducing the need for in-person visits, especially for routine follow-ups and medication management. Practices that utilize secure video conferencing platforms for virtual consultations and remote patient monitoring tools, such as connected blood pressure cuffs, demonstrate a proactive approach to patient care. The ability to remotely monitor blood pressure readings and adjust medication dosages can significantly improve hypertension control.

The integration of mental health resources is another crucial element of the analysis. Hypertension and mental health are often intertwined. Stress, anxiety, and depression can contribute to elevated blood pressure levels. Therefore, the availability of mental health support services, either within the primary care practice or through referrals to external providers, is essential. Practices that screen patients for mental health conditions and provide access to counseling or psychiatric care are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients.

The 'Hypertension Score' will also consider the availability of specialized care. While primary care providers are the cornerstone of hypertension management, access to specialists, such as cardiologists and nephrologists, is vital for complex cases. The proximity of these specialists and the ease of referral processes significantly influence the overall quality of care. Practices that have established referral networks and facilitate seamless communication between primary care physicians and specialists receive higher marks.

Furthermore, the analysis must incorporate the utilization of evidence-based guidelines. Practices that adhere to the latest guidelines from organizations like the American Heart Association (AHA) and the American College of Cardiology (ACC) are more likely to provide optimal care. This includes the use of standardized protocols for blood pressure measurement, the selection of appropriate medications, and the implementation of lifestyle modification recommendations.

The local community environment also plays a role. The availability of resources such as walking trails, community gardens, and healthy food options can support patients in making lifestyle changes that contribute to better blood pressure control. Practices that actively promote healthy lifestyle choices and partner with local organizations to provide these resources receive additional credit.

Considering all these factors, the 'Hypertension Score' for Pelahatchie (39145) will be a composite measure. It will reflect the physician-to-patient ratio, the characteristics of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the availability of specialized care. The final score will provide a comprehensive assessment of the area's ability to effectively manage hypertension.

The score will be based on a scale, with a higher score indicating better access to care, higher quality of care, and a greater likelihood of positive patient outcomes. The score will also highlight areas where improvements are needed, such as addressing physician shortages, expanding telemedicine capabilities, and increasing access to mental health services.

The availability of data is a significant challenge in this type of analysis. Publicly available data sources, such as the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and the Mississippi State Department of Health, can provide some information. However, gathering comprehensive data requires a combination of desk research, surveys, and potentially direct contact with local healthcare providers.

Ultimately, the goal of this 'Hypertension Score' analysis is to provide a valuable resource for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers. It will help to identify strengths and weaknesses in the local healthcare system and inform strategies for improving hypertension management in Pelahatchie.

To visualize the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, physician locations, and patient demographics, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a visual representation of the data, making it easier to understand the complexities of the healthcare landscape and identify areas of need.

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