39364, Toomsuba, Mississippi Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 39364, Toomsuba, Mississippi is 92 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.13 percent of the residents in 39364 has some form of health insurance. 55.64 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.03 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 39364 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 538 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39364. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 880 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 175 health care providers accessible to residents in 39364, Toomsuba, Mississippi.

**Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 39364 and Primary Care Availability in Toomsuba, Mississippi**

This analysis provides an assessment of primary care physician resources in ZIP Code 39364, which encompasses the town of Toomsuba, Mississippi, focusing on hypertension management and overall healthcare accessibility. The goal is to evaluate the availability and quality of care for individuals managing hypertension, a significant public health concern.

The foundation of hypertension management lies in accessible and competent primary care. In Toomsuba, the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial metric. This ratio indicates the number of patients each primary care physician is responsible for. A high ratio can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially, a decline in the quality of care. Researching the precise physician-to-patient ratio within ZIP Code 39364 is paramount. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or state medical boards can provide initial insights. Local healthcare providers, including hospitals and clinics, may also offer data on their patient loads.

Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of physicians matters. Are the available physicians concentrated in a single clinic, or are they spread across multiple practices? A geographically dispersed network of primary care providers improves accessibility, especially for patients with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. The location of clinics relative to residential areas is another factor. Are clinics easily accessible by public transportation, or do patients rely heavily on personal vehicles? The availability of after-hours and weekend appointments also plays a role in access, particularly for individuals with work commitments.

Identifying standout practices within the ZIP Code is essential. These practices may demonstrate excellence in hypertension management through various means. Some practices may have invested in specialized equipment for blood pressure monitoring, such as ambulatory blood pressure monitors. Others might have implemented robust electronic health record (EHR) systems that facilitate efficient data management, medication reconciliation, and patient communication. Practices with a strong focus on patient education, offering classes or providing educational materials on lifestyle modifications, are particularly valuable. Look for practices that proactively reach out to patients for follow-up appointments and medication refills, ensuring adherence to treatment plans.

Telemedicine adoption is a significant factor in modern healthcare delivery. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, using video conferencing or phone calls. This can be particularly beneficial for patients with hypertension, who may require frequent monitoring and medication adjustments. Telemedicine reduces the need for travel, saving time and money, and can improve access to care for patients in rural areas. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption among primary care practices in Toomsuba is crucial. Do practices offer virtual appointments? Do they use remote patient monitoring devices to track blood pressure readings? Are they equipped to provide virtual medication management and counseling?

The link between mental health and hypertension is well-established. Stress, anxiety, and depression can elevate blood pressure and complicate treatment. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through referrals is vital. Does each practice have on-site mental health professionals, such as therapists or counselors? If not, do they have established referral pathways to mental health providers in the community? Are they able to address the mental health needs of their patients?

Evaluating the insurance acceptance policies of the primary care practices is also important. Does the practice accept a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance? This ensures that a broader segment of the population can access care. Also, consider the cost of services. Does the practice offer affordable options for patients without insurance?

The quality of care is paramount. This involves the accuracy of diagnosis, the effectiveness of treatment plans, and the overall patient experience. Gathering data on these factors can be challenging. However, patient reviews, online ratings, and testimonials can provide valuable insights. Also, consider the practice’s participation in quality improvement initiatives. Do they actively track their patients’ blood pressure control rates? Do they participate in programs aimed at improving hypertension management?

The integration of technology into healthcare is essential. The use of EHR systems allows physicians to efficiently manage patient data, track progress, and communicate with patients. Practices that utilize patient portals, allowing patients to access their medical records, schedule appointments, and communicate with their physicians, are often more patient-centered.

The availability of support staff, such as nurses, medical assistants, and pharmacists, also contributes to the quality of care. A well-staffed practice can provide more comprehensive support to patients, including medication management, education, and follow-up care.

The overall assessment of primary care availability in ZIP Code 39364 requires a multifaceted approach. The physician-to-patient ratio, the geographical distribution of practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, the insurance acceptance policies, and the quality of care are all crucial factors. By carefully evaluating these elements, we can gain a comprehensive understanding of the resources available to individuals managing hypertension in Toomsuba.

**Call to Action:**

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Toomsuba and surrounding areas, including the locations of primary care practices, hospitals, and pharmacies, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps available through CartoChrome. Their mapping tools provide a dynamic and informative view of healthcare resources, enabling you to make informed decisions about your health and the healthcare providers in your community.