39406, Hattiesburg, Mississippi Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 39406, Hattiesburg, Mississippi is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.42 percent of the residents in 39406 has some form of health insurance. 10.77 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.58 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 39406 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 268 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 30 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39406. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 0 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 8,610 health care providers accessible to residents in 39406, Hattiesburg, Mississippi.

The analysis focuses on assessing the quality of hypertension care within ZIP code 39406, specifically evaluating the primary care landscape in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. This involves examining physician availability, the adoption of innovative care models, and the integration of mental health services, all crucial elements in managing hypertension effectively.

Evaluating the landscape begins with physician-to-patient ratios. A low ratio, indicating a higher concentration of physicians relative to the population, generally suggests better access to care. Conversely, a high ratio may indicate potential challenges in scheduling appointments, leading to delays in diagnosis and treatment. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and the Mississippi State Department of Health provides insights into physician distribution. Analyzing this data reveals the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) practicing within the 39406 ZIP code and comparing it to the area's population density allows us to calculate a physician-to-patient ratio. A ratio exceeding the national average might suggest a need for strategies to enhance access, such as incentivizing physician recruitment or expanding telehealth services.

Standout practices within Hattiesburg demonstrate exemplary hypertension management. These practices often excel in several key areas. They may have implemented comprehensive screening programs, proactively identifying individuals at risk. They may have integrated evidence-based treatment protocols, ensuring consistent and effective care. They may also employ dedicated care coordinators, who assist patients in navigating the healthcare system, scheduling appointments, and managing medications. Researching local healthcare providers, examining their online presence, and reviewing patient testimonials can help identify these standout practices. Furthermore, reviewing data from the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) and similar organizations can help identify practices that have achieved recognition for their quality of care.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. Telemedicine offers a valuable tool for managing hypertension, particularly in areas with limited access to care. Remote blood pressure monitoring, virtual consultations, and medication management through telehealth platforms can improve patient adherence to treatment plans and reduce the need for frequent in-person visits. Assessing the adoption of telemedicine within the 39406 ZIP code involves researching local healthcare providers to determine which ones offer telehealth services. Examining the availability of remote blood pressure monitoring devices and the integration of telehealth platforms into existing patient portals are also crucial. Practices that have embraced telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to improving access to care and enhancing patient convenience.

The integration of mental health resources is paramount in hypertension management. Hypertension is often associated with stress, anxiety, and depression, all of which can negatively impact blood pressure control. Primary care practices that integrate mental health services, such as on-site therapists or partnerships with mental health providers, offer a more holistic approach to care. Evaluating the availability of these resources involves researching local healthcare providers to determine if they offer mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health specialists. This integration can significantly improve patient outcomes by addressing the psychological factors that contribute to hypertension.

Further analysis involves examining the availability of specialized hypertension clinics or programs. These clinics, staffed by specialists in cardiology and nephrology, often provide more advanced diagnostic and treatment options for complex cases. Assessing the presence of these specialized resources within or near the 39406 ZIP code is essential for patients with difficult-to-control hypertension. This can be achieved by researching local hospitals and medical centers to determine if they offer specialized hypertension clinics or programs.

Moreover, the analysis should consider the availability of patient education resources. Educating patients about hypertension, its risk factors, and the importance of lifestyle modifications is essential for effective management. Practices that provide patient education materials, such as brochures, online resources, and group education sessions, demonstrate a commitment to empowering patients to take control of their health. Examining the availability of these resources involves reviewing the websites of local healthcare providers and hospitals, as well as assessing the availability of patient education materials in waiting rooms and examination rooms.

Finally, the analysis must consider the affordability of care. The cost of medications, doctor visits, and diagnostic tests can be a significant barrier to accessing care, particularly for low-income individuals. Assessing the availability of financial assistance programs, such as patient assistance programs and Medicaid, is crucial. This can be achieved by researching local healthcare providers to determine if they offer financial assistance or have established relationships with organizations that provide financial support.

In conclusion, assessing the quality of hypertension care within ZIP code 39406, and the primary care availability in Hattiesburg, requires a comprehensive evaluation of physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, specialized clinics, patient education, and affordability. This in-depth analysis provides a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape and identifies areas for improvement. The insights gained can inform strategies to enhance access to care, improve patient outcomes, and ultimately, reduce the burden of hypertension within the community.

For a visual representation of the data and a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Hattiesburg, explore the power of geographic data with CartoChrome maps.