39170, Terry, Mississippi Hypertension Score People Score

The People Score for the Hypertension Score in 39170, Terry, Mississippi is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.47 percent of the residents in 39170 has some form of health insurance. 36.60 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.46 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 39170 would have to travel an average of 11.49 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Merit Health Central. In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,747 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 39170, Terry, Mississippi.

## Hypertension Score: Terry, Mississippi - A Pulse on Community Health in 39170

The Mississippi sun beats down on Terry, a town that feels both familiar and fresh. It’s a place where front porches are still used for conversation, where the scent of freshly cut grass mingles with the promise of a hot summer day, and where community health is a complex, interwoven tapestry woven from demographics, lifestyle, and the availability of resources. This is a deep dive into the hypertension score of 39170, a snapshot of the health landscape in Terry, Mississippi, and a look at the forces that shape it.

**The Lay of the Land: Demographics and the Rhythm of Life**

Terry, nestled in Hinds County, is a town on the move. The population, hovering around 1,500, is a mosaic. You see families who've put down roots for generations, their homes echoing with the laughter of children and the murmur of familiar stories. You see newcomers, drawn by the promise of a slower pace, affordable housing, and the allure of a close-knit community. The median age leans towards the younger side, with a significant portion of the population falling into the family-raising years. This demographic skew has profound implications for community health.

The racial makeup is a significant factor. Terry reflects the broader trends of Mississippi, with a majority African American population. This demographic reality, combined with socioeconomic factors, paints a picture of potential health disparities. Understanding this nuance is critical to interpreting the hypertension score. Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a silent killer, often exacerbated by factors like stress, diet, and access to healthcare.

The economic pulse of Terry is a steady one, with a mix of blue-collar and white-collar workers. Many residents commute to Jackson, the state capital, for employment, while others find work in local businesses and service industries. The affordability of housing is a major draw, with a range of options from cozy bungalows to more spacious family homes. This affordability, however, can sometimes mask underlying economic vulnerabilities.

**Where the Heart Beats: Places to Live and Their Impact**

The character of a town is often reflected in its neighborhoods. In Terry, the residential landscape is diverse. You have established areas with mature trees, where neighbors know each other by name and children play freely in the streets. These areas often boast a strong sense of community, which can be a protective factor against the isolation that can contribute to poor health outcomes.

Then there are the newer developments, with their manicured lawns and modern amenities. These areas often attract young families and offer a sense of upward mobility. However, the emphasis on individual homes and private spaces can sometimes lead to a less connected community feel.

The presence of affordable housing options is a double-edged sword. While providing access to shelter is paramount, the concentration of lower-income residents in certain areas can lead to a lack of resources, limited access to healthy food options, and increased exposure to environmental stressors.

**The Vibe: A Blend of Southern Charm and Modern Living**

Terry’s neighborhood vibe is a blend of Southern charm and modern convenience. The town square, with its historic buildings and local businesses, is the heart of the community. It's a place where you can grab a cup of coffee, catch up with friends, and feel the pulse of the town.

The pace of life is generally slower than in the bustling city. This can be a positive factor, reducing stress and promoting a more relaxed lifestyle. However, the lack of readily available amenities, such as large grocery stores with extensive healthy food options, can pose challenges to adopting a healthy lifestyle.

The community spirit is palpable. There's a strong sense of neighborliness, with residents looking out for each other. This social cohesion can be a powerful force in promoting health and well-being.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing Room and the Call of Nature**

Terry offers ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. The nearby Ross Barnett Reservoir provides a scenic backdrop for boating, fishing, and water sports. Local parks and green spaces offer trails for walking, jogging, and cycling.

The availability of outdoor activities is a significant asset for community health. Regular physical activity is a cornerstone of a healthy lifestyle, and access to green spaces encourages people to get moving. However, the lack of dedicated bike lanes and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure can sometimes make it challenging to incorporate outdoor activity into daily routines.

Picture this: a Saturday morning. The sun is just beginning to warm the air. Families are gathering at the local park, children chasing each other across the grassy fields, the laughter echoing through the trees. The scent of grilling burgers and hotdogs wafts from the picnic tables. This is the essence of Terry, a town where outdoor recreation is woven into the fabric of everyday life.

**Local Wellness Programs: Seeds of Change**

The presence of local wellness programs is a crucial factor in shaping the hypertension score. These programs can provide education, resources, and support to help residents manage their health.

The local community center might offer exercise classes, cooking demonstrations, and health screenings. The local churches often play a vital role in promoting health and well-being, offering support groups and educational workshops. The school system can integrate health education into the curriculum, teaching children about healthy eating habits and the importance of physical activity.

The success of these programs depends on several factors, including funding, staffing, and community participation. The more accessible and engaging these programs are, the greater their impact on the community's health.

**The Grocery Store Scene: A Matter of Choice**

Access to healthy food options is a critical determinant of community health. The availability of fresh produce, lean protein, and whole grains is essential for preventing and managing hypertension.

The local grocery stores in Terry play a vital role in this regard. Do they offer a wide variety of healthy choices? Are the prices affordable? Are there options for those with dietary restrictions? The answers to these questions have a direct impact on the community's ability to make healthy choices.

Imagine a scenario: a mother, juggling multiple jobs and family responsibilities, trying to make a quick and healthy dinner. Is she able to easily find fresh vegetables and lean protein at her local grocery store? Or is she forced to rely on processed foods, which are often high in sodium and unhealthy fats? The answer to this question can significantly impact her health and the health of her family.

**The Doctor's Office: Access to Care**

Access to quality healthcare is a fundamental right and a crucial factor in managing hypertension. The availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and affordable healthcare services is essential for early detection, treatment, and management of the disease.

The local clinics and hospitals in Terry play a vital role in providing healthcare services. Are they adequately staffed? Do they accept a variety of insurance plans? Are they easily accessible to all residents? The answers to these questions have a direct impact on the community's ability to access the care they need.

Consider a scenario: a resident experiencing symptoms of high blood pressure. Is he able to easily schedule an appointment with his primary care physician? Is he able to afford the cost of the visit and any necessary medications? The answers to these questions can determine whether he receives timely treatment and prevents the progression of the disease.

**The Hypertension Score: A Composite Picture**

The hypertension score for Terry, Mississippi (39170) is not a single number. It’s a composite picture, a reflection of the interplay between demographics, lifestyle, access to resources, and the community's commitment to health and well-being.

The score is likely influenced by the following factors:

* **Demographics:** The high percentage of African American residents, a population group with a higher prevalence of hypertension, may contribute to a higher score.
* **Socioeconomic Factors:** The economic realities of the community, including income levels and access to affordable healthcare, can impact the score.
* **Lifestyle Factors:** The prevalence of unhealthy eating habits, lack of physical activity, and high stress levels can contribute to a higher score.
* **Access to Resources:** The availability of healthy food options, access to healthcare, and the presence of local wellness programs can influence the score.
* **Community Engagement:** The level of community engagement and the strength of social connections can play a protective role, potentially mitigating some of the negative factors.

**Moving Forward: A Path to Healthier Futures**

Improving the hypertension score in Terry requires a multifaceted approach. It involves addressing the underlying social determinants of health, promoting healthy lifestyles, and ensuring access to quality healthcare.

Here are some potential strategies:

* **Promoting Healthy Eating:** Supporting local farmers markets, increasing the availability of healthy food options in grocery stores, and providing nutrition education.
* **Encouraging Physical Activity:** Investing in parks and green spaces, creating bike lanes and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, and promoting community-based exercise programs.
* **Expanding Access to Healthcare:** Increasing the number of primary care physicians, expanding access to affordable healthcare services, and providing health screenings and education.
* **Strengthening Community Partnerships:** Fostering collaboration between local organizations, schools, churches, and healthcare providers to create a supportive environment for health and well-being.
* **Addressing Social Determinants of Health:** Addressing poverty, unemployment, and other social factors that contribute to poor health outcomes.

The journey towards a healthier Terry is a marathon, not a sprint. It requires sustained effort, community collaboration, and a commitment to creating a vibrant and thriving community where everyone has the opportunity to live a long and healthy life. The hypertension score is a snapshot in time, a call to action. It's a reminder that the health of a community is not just a medical issue; it's a reflection of the values, the resources, and the collective spirit of the people who call it home.