39189, Walnut Grove, Mississippi Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 39189, Walnut Grove, Mississippi is 10 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.79 percent of the residents in 39189 has some form of health insurance. 55.41 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 39.23 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 39189 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,149 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39189. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 331 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 154 health care providers accessible to residents in 39189, Walnut Grove, Mississippi.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Walnut Grove, MS (ZIP Code 39189)

Analyzing the healthcare landscape of Walnut Grove, Mississippi, specifically within the 39189 ZIP code, reveals a complex interplay of factors influencing hypertension management. This analysis aims to provide a 'Hypertension Score' assessment, considering primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health resources, all crucial for effective hypertension control. The goal is to understand the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare infrastructure and identify areas for improvement.

Primary care access is the cornerstone of effective hypertension management. Regular check-ups, screenings, and medication management are all facilitated through a strong primary care network. In Walnut Grove, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical factor. The physician-to-patient ratio is a key metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and ultimately, poorer hypertension control. Researching the specific ratio for 39189 is vital. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) or state health departments should be consulted to determine the current physician-to-patient ratio. This ratio will significantly influence the initial score.

Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs within the ZIP code is also important. Are they concentrated in a single clinic, or are there multiple practices spread throughout the community? Geographic accessibility is paramount, especially for elderly residents or those with limited transportation options. The location of clinics, their hours of operation, and their acceptance of various insurance plans all play a role in patient access.

Standout practices in the area, if any, should be identified. Are there any clinics known for their focus on chronic disease management, including hypertension? Do they employ dedicated nurses or care coordinators who specialize in patient education and follow-up? Do they utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively to track patient progress and manage medication adherence? Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, proactive outreach, and comprehensive management strategies should be recognized. These practices can serve as models for other providers in the area.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial element. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, monitor blood pressure remotely, and provide medication refills online can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas like Walnut Grove. Investigating the extent of telemedicine adoption among local PCPs is necessary. Do they offer virtual appointments? Do they use remote monitoring devices to track blood pressure readings? Are they equipped to provide patient education and support through telehealth platforms? Practices that embrace telemedicine can enhance patient convenience and improve adherence to treatment plans.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in hypertension management, but they are critical. Stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure. Patients with these conditions may struggle to adhere to their medication regimens and lifestyle modifications. Assessing the availability of mental health services within the 39189 ZIP code is therefore essential. Are there psychiatrists, psychologists, or licensed counselors available? Are mental health services integrated into primary care practices? Do patients have access to support groups or other resources to help them manage stress and improve their mental well-being?

The presence of community health programs and resources also influences the 'Hypertension Score'. Are there programs that provide free blood pressure screenings, education on healthy eating, or exercise classes? Are there partnerships between healthcare providers and community organizations to promote healthy lifestyles? These initiatives can play a vital role in preventing hypertension and improving outcomes for those who already have the condition.

Based on the assessment of these factors, a 'Hypertension Score' can be developed. The score should reflect the overall quality and accessibility of hypertension management services within the 39189 ZIP code. A higher score would indicate a stronger healthcare infrastructure with greater access to primary care, telemedicine, mental health resources, and community support. A lower score would suggest areas for improvement, such as increasing the number of PCPs, expanding telemedicine capabilities, or enhancing access to mental health services.

The specific scoring methodology would involve assigning points to each factor based on its importance. For example, the physician-to-patient ratio could be weighted heavily, with higher scores awarded to areas with more favorable ratios. Telemedicine adoption could be scored based on the availability of virtual appointments, remote monitoring, and other telehealth services. Mental health resources could be scored based on the availability of mental health professionals and the integration of mental health services into primary care.

The final 'Hypertension Score' would provide a valuable snapshot of the healthcare landscape in Walnut Grove. It could be used to identify areas for improvement, inform healthcare policy decisions, and guide efforts to improve hypertension management in the community. It could also be used to compare the quality of care available in Walnut Grove to that available in other communities.

To conduct a comprehensive analysis and visualize the data, consider utilizing a mapping platform like CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can help to visualize the distribution of PCPs, the location of clinics, and the availability of mental health resources within the 39189 ZIP code. They can also be used to analyze demographic data and identify areas with the greatest need for hypertension management services.