39218, Richland, Mississippi Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 39218, Richland, Mississippi is 93 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 79.64 percent of the residents in 39218 has some form of health insurance. 37.53 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.33 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 39218 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,719 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 79 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39218. An estimate of 44 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,072 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 10,196 health care providers accessible to residents in 39218, Richland, Mississippi.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Richland, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39218)

Analyzing the landscape of hypertension care within Richland, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39218) requires a multifaceted approach. We need to assess the availability of primary care physicians, evaluate the quality of care delivered, and examine the integration of resources designed to support patients managing this prevalent condition. This analysis, presented as a "Hypertension Score," will consider several key factors to provide a comprehensive overview. This isn't a numerical score, but a narrative assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem.

The foundation of hypertension management lies in accessible primary care. In Richland, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical starting point. While precise figures fluctuate, understanding the number of primary care physicians serving the population of 39218 is crucial. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can create bottlenecks, delaying appointments and follow-up care. This can negatively impact the timely diagnosis and management of hypertension. Researching publicly available data from sources like the Mississippi State Department of Health or the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) can provide valuable insights into these ratios.

Beyond sheer numbers, the distribution of primary care physicians within the ZIP code is also important. Are physicians concentrated in one area, leaving other parts of Richland underserved? Geographic disparities in access can create barriers to care for certain populations, particularly those with limited transportation options or mobility issues. Identifying underserved areas is essential for targeted interventions and resource allocation.

Assessing the quality of care involves looking beyond access. Are physicians adhering to established guidelines for hypertension management, such as those provided by the American Heart Association (AHA) or the American College of Cardiology (ACC)? This includes the use of evidence-based treatment protocols, regular blood pressure monitoring, and patient education. Reviewing publicly available data on quality metrics, such as those reported by hospitals or managed care organizations, can offer clues about the quality of care being provided.

Furthermore, the adoption of technology plays a significant role in hypertension management. Telemedicine, for instance, can bridge geographical gaps and improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in remote areas. Examining the extent to which primary care practices in 39218 are utilizing telemedicine for virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and medication management is crucial.

Another important consideration is the integration of mental health resources. Hypertension is often linked to stress and anxiety, and addressing these underlying issues can significantly improve patient outcomes. Assessing the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, within the community is vital. Do primary care practices have established referral pathways to mental health services? Are there collaborative care models in place that integrate mental health support into primary care settings?

Identifying standout practices within Richland is also important. These practices may demonstrate excellence in hypertension management, perhaps through innovative approaches to patient education, proactive outreach programs, or robust patient support systems. Researching patient reviews, surveying local community members, and examining practice websites can help identify these exemplary practices.

The success of hypertension management also depends on patient education and self-management. Are primary care practices providing patients with the resources and support they need to understand their condition, monitor their blood pressure, adhere to medication regimens, and adopt healthy lifestyle habits? Patient education materials, support groups, and access to registered dietitians are valuable components of a comprehensive hypertension care plan.

The availability of pharmacies within the ZIP code is another crucial factor. Easy access to medication refills is essential for medication adherence, and pharmacies can also play a role in patient education and blood pressure monitoring. Examining the number and location of pharmacies in 39218, as well as their services related to hypertension management, is essential.

Finally, the overall community environment can influence hypertension rates. Factors such as access to healthy food options, safe places for physical activity, and community awareness campaigns about hypertension can all play a role in prevention and management. Assessing these environmental factors can provide a more holistic view of the challenges and opportunities for improving hypertension care in Richland.

In conclusion, evaluating the "Hypertension Score" for Richland, Mississippi (39218) requires a comprehensive assessment of primary care availability, quality of care, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, patient education, and community factors. This analysis should identify strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement. By examining these factors, we can gain a clearer understanding of the challenges and opportunities for improving hypertension care within the community.

To gain a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Richland, including physician locations, pharmacy access, and potential areas of need, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a spatial perspective on the data discussed, helping you visualize the distribution of resources and identify areas where interventions are most needed.