39443, Laurel, Mississippi Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 39443, Laurel, Mississippi is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.85 percent of the residents in 39443 has some form of health insurance. 35.66 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.71 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 39443 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,517 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39443. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,207 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,157 health care providers accessible to residents in 39443, Laurel, Mississippi.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Laurel, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39443)

Analyzing the landscape of hypertension management in Laurel, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39443) requires a multifaceted approach, considering physician availability, practice characteristics, technological integration, and the availability of crucial support services like mental health resources. This analysis will provide a 'Hypertension Score,' a qualitative assessment reflecting the ease with which patients in Laurel can access effective hypertension care.

The foundation of successful hypertension management rests on accessible primary care. In Laurel, the physician-to-patient ratio serves as a crucial indicator. A higher ratio, reflecting fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially, compromised care. Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio requires accessing current data from sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) or state medical boards. This ratio will be a key component in determining the overall score. A low ratio would negatively impact the score.

Beyond sheer numbers, the distribution of primary care physicians within the ZIP code is also vital. Are practices concentrated in specific areas, leaving other parts of Laurel underserved? This geographic analysis is important. Furthermore, the types of practices available need evaluation. Are there large, multi-specialty clinics, solo practitioners, or a mix? Larger clinics often offer a broader range of services and potentially better coordination of care, which can positively impact the score. The presence of specialists, such as cardiologists and nephrologists, is also essential, especially for patients with complex hypertension cases.

Several practices may stand out in Laurel, demonstrating exemplary hypertension management. Identifying these "standout practices" requires examining various factors. Do they have dedicated hypertension management programs? Do they consistently monitor blood pressure readings and provide timely interventions? Are they actively involved in patient education about lifestyle modifications, medication adherence, and self-monitoring? Practices that excel in these areas would contribute positively to the overall score. Reviews from patients, if available, can also provide valuable insights into the quality of care.

Telemedicine adoption is a significant factor in modern healthcare, particularly for chronic conditions like hypertension. Practices that embrace telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and medication management support, can improve patient access and convenience. This is especially relevant for patients with mobility issues or those living in geographically isolated areas. The extent of telemedicine adoption within Laurel's primary care practices will be a key consideration. Practices that actively use telemedicine would receive a higher score.

The link between mental health and hypertension is well-established. Stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure control. The availability of mental health resources within Laurel, and the integration of these resources with primary care, are therefore crucial. Do primary care practices have on-site therapists or partnerships with mental health providers? Are there readily accessible mental health services in the community? The presence of these resources, and their integration with primary care, will significantly influence the score. The lack of mental health support would negatively impact the score.

Medication adherence is another vital aspect of successful hypertension management. Practices that provide patient education, medication reminders, and support for managing side effects are more likely to achieve positive outcomes. The availability of pharmacy services, including medication dispensing and counseling, within the ZIP code is also relevant. Practices that actively promote medication adherence will receive a higher score.

The 'Hypertension Score' itself will be a qualitative assessment based on the factors discussed above. It will not be a numerical score but a descriptive evaluation of the overall landscape of hypertension care in Laurel. A high score would indicate a robust system with readily accessible primary care, advanced technological integration, comprehensive support services, and a focus on patient education and medication adherence. A low score would suggest potential challenges, such as limited physician availability, lack of telemedicine adoption, inadequate mental health support, and potential barriers to accessing care.

The analysis must consider the specific challenges faced by the population in Laurel. Factors like socioeconomic status, access to healthy food options, and health literacy levels can all influence hypertension outcomes. The score will reflect the ability of the healthcare system to address these challenges and provide equitable care to all residents.

The final score will be a nuanced assessment, acknowledging the complexities of healthcare delivery. It will highlight areas of strength and identify areas for improvement. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of hypertension management in Laurel, Mississippi.

This analysis, while providing a general overview, is limited by the availability of data. A complete assessment would require detailed information from various sources, including physician directories, insurance providers, and public health agencies. The score is a starting point for understanding the current state of hypertension care in Laurel, Mississippi.

**To gain a visual representation of the physician distribution, practice locations, and access to healthcare resources within ZIP Code 39443, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping tools that can help you visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Laurel. Visit CartoChrome to see the data.**