39530, Biloxi, Mississippi Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 39530, Biloxi, Mississippi is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 80.04 percent of the residents in 39530 has some form of health insurance. 51.48 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 44.37 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 39530 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,858 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39530. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,293 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 8,093 health care providers accessible to residents in 39530, Biloxi, Mississippi.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 39530 & Primary Care Availability in Biloxi

Analyzing the landscape of hypertension management within ZIP Code 39530, encompassing a significant portion of Biloxi, Mississippi, requires a multifaceted approach. We must assess not only the number of available primary care physicians (PCPs) but also the quality of care delivered, the accessibility of specialists, the integration of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health support, all critical components in effectively addressing hypertension. This analysis provides a ‘Hypertension Score’ ranking, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare ecosystem within this specific geographic area.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially, a decline in the quality of care. In Biloxi, specifically within 39530, the current PCP-to-population ratio is a crucial factor to examine. Data from publicly available sources, such as the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and state medical boards, should be consulted to determine the precise ratio. This ratio forms the baseline for our ‘Hypertension Score.’ A high ratio, implying ample access to primary care, would positively influence the score, while a low ratio would negatively impact it.

Beyond the raw number of physicians, the quality of care is paramount. This involves evaluating the practices' adherence to evidence-based guidelines for hypertension management. This includes the frequency of blood pressure screenings, the use of appropriate medications, the provision of lifestyle modification counseling (diet, exercise, smoking cessation), and the monitoring of patient outcomes. Reviewing publicly available data on patient outcomes, such as the percentage of patients with controlled blood pressure, can offer valuable insights. Additionally, patient reviews, while subjective, can provide valuable information about the patient experience, including the ease of scheduling appointments, the responsiveness of the staff, and the overall satisfaction with the care received. Practices with a demonstrated commitment to quality, as evidenced by these metrics, would receive a higher score.

Standout practices within ZIP Code 39530 deserve recognition. These are the practices that demonstrate a proactive approach to hypertension management. This might include implementing patient portals for easy communication, offering extended hours for appointments, or actively participating in community health initiatives to raise awareness about hypertension. Identifying these practices and highlighting their best practices can serve as a model for other healthcare providers in the area. These standout practices would contribute significantly to the overall ‘Hypertension Score’ of the region.

The adoption of telemedicine is another critical factor. Telemedicine offers a convenient and accessible way for patients to receive care, especially for those with mobility issues, transportation challenges, or those residing in geographically isolated areas. The availability of telehealth consultations for blood pressure monitoring, medication management, and lifestyle counseling can significantly improve patient outcomes. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring capabilities, would receive a higher score, reflecting their commitment to patient convenience and improved access to care.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to hypertension management. Stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure levels and adherence to treatment plans. The availability of mental health services, either within the primary care practices or through readily accessible referrals, is crucial. Practices that integrate mental health screening and provide access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, would receive a higher score. This integration ensures a holistic approach to patient care, addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of hypertension.

Specialist availability, particularly cardiology, is another critical component. While PCPs are the first line of defense, patients with uncontrolled hypertension or complex medical histories often require the expertise of cardiologists. The proximity of cardiology specialists and the ease of referral processes are important considerations. Areas with a shortage of specialists or cumbersome referral pathways would negatively impact the ‘Hypertension Score.’

Furthermore, the presence of ancillary services, such as pharmacies and diagnostic laboratories, also plays a role. The availability of convenient access to medication refills and timely diagnostic testing is essential for effective hypertension management. Practices located near pharmacies and laboratories would contribute positively to the ‘Hypertension Score.’

Finally, the overall infrastructure of the healthcare system, including the availability of electronic health records (EHRs) and interoperability between different healthcare providers, is a factor. EHRs facilitate better communication and coordination of care, which can lead to improved patient outcomes. Practices that utilize EHRs and participate in data-sharing initiatives would receive a higher score.

In conclusion, assessing the ‘Hypertension Score’ for doctors in ZIP Code 39530 and primary care availability in Biloxi requires a comprehensive evaluation of multiple factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of care, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, the proximity of specialists, and the presence of ancillary services all contribute to the overall score. By understanding these factors, we can identify areas of strength and weakness within the healthcare ecosystem and work towards improving hypertension management for the residents of Biloxi.

To visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Biloxi, Mississippi, consider using CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, practice characteristics, and other relevant data, allowing you to analyze the information in a more intuitive and informative way. Visit CartoChrome today to explore the potential of data visualization and gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare resources available in your community.