39440, Laurel, Mississippi Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 39440, Laurel, Mississippi is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.52 percent of the residents in 39440 has some form of health insurance. 47.39 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 51.90 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 39440 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,611 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39440. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,112 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,177 health care providers accessible to residents in 39440, Laurel, Mississippi.

**Hypertension Score Analysis: Laurel, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39440)**

Analyzing the landscape of hypertension care within Laurel, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39440) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers the availability of primary care physicians, physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, the presence of mental health resources, and the overall quality of care as it pertains to managing hypertension. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" assessment, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system.

Laurel, a city in Jones County, faces challenges common to many rural communities. One significant hurdle is the potential for limited access to primary care physicians. While specific, publicly available physician-to-patient ratio data for 39440 is difficult to obtain, national averages suggest a shortage can exist in rural areas. This scarcity can translate to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delayed diagnoses, and less frequent follow-up care, all of which can negatively impact hypertension management.

The availability of primary care physicians is the cornerstone of effective hypertension control. These physicians are responsible for initial screenings, diagnosis, medication management, and patient education. The number of primary care doctors actively practicing within the 39440 ZIP code is a critical factor in determining the accessibility of care. Any shortage necessitates a careful examination of the existing resources, including the utilization of nurse practitioners and physician assistants to augment the care provided by physicians.

The adoption of telemedicine represents a significant opportunity to improve hypertension management in Laurel. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to connect with their physicians remotely for consultations, medication refills, and monitoring. It can also improve patient adherence to treatment plans. Practices that embrace telemedicine, particularly those offering remote blood pressure monitoring and virtual follow-up appointments, are likely to achieve better outcomes.

Mental health is often overlooked in the context of hypertension, but it plays a vital role. Stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure levels and patient adherence to treatment. The availability of mental health resources, either within primary care practices or through referrals to specialists, is crucial. Integrated care models, where mental health professionals collaborate with primary care physicians, can lead to more holistic and effective hypertension management.

Assessing the "Hypertension Score" also involves evaluating the quality of care provided by individual practices. This includes examining their adherence to national guidelines for hypertension management, the use of evidence-based practices, and patient satisfaction scores. Data on these metrics, although often not publicly available, can provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of the care being delivered.

Identifying standout practices within the 39440 ZIP code requires a deeper dive into the local healthcare ecosystem. Practices that have invested in technology, such as electronic health records and patient portals, are often better equipped to manage patient data and improve communication. Those that offer comprehensive patient education programs, including dietary guidance, exercise recommendations, and stress management techniques, are likely to achieve better outcomes.

The ability to measure and track blood pressure accurately is paramount. Practices that utilize validated blood pressure monitors and have protocols for proper measurement techniques demonstrate a commitment to quality. Regular monitoring, both in the clinic and at home, is essential for effective hypertension management.

The presence of community resources, such as support groups and educational programs, can also contribute to the overall "Hypertension Score." These resources can empower patients to take an active role in their care and improve their adherence to treatment plans.

The "Hypertension Score" for Laurel, Mississippi, is not a single number but rather a complex assessment based on a range of factors. The availability of primary care physicians, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the quality of care provided by individual practices all contribute to the overall score.

To improve the "Hypertension Score" in Laurel, several strategies could be implemented. Recruiting more primary care physicians, expanding telemedicine services, integrating mental health care into primary care practices, and promoting patient education are all essential steps.

The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. The best practices today may not be the best tomorrow. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential for identifying areas for improvement and ensuring that patients in Laurel receive the best possible care.

The information presented here is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Consult with a healthcare professional for any health concerns.

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Laurel, Mississippi, and to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, including the location of primary care physicians, hospitals, and pharmacies, consider exploring the CartoChrome maps.