39556, Kiln, Mississippi Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 39556, Kiln, Mississippi is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.09 percent of the residents in 39556 has some form of health insurance. 48.65 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.63 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 39556 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,943 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39556. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,722 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,585 health care providers accessible to residents in 39556, Kiln, Mississippi.

**Hypertension Score Analysis: Kiln, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39556)**

Kiln, Mississippi, a small community nestled in Hancock County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare delivery, particularly concerning the management of hypertension. Assessing the quality and accessibility of primary care, alongside the availability of resources to address this prevalent condition, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into the current state of primary care in ZIP code 39556, evaluating factors crucial to hypertension control and offering insights into potential areas for improvement.

The foundation of effective hypertension management lies within accessible and quality primary care. Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator. While precise figures for Kiln alone are difficult to obtain, county-level data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) can provide a general understanding. Hancock County, like many rural areas, likely faces a shortage of primary care physicians compared to more urban centers. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially, delayed diagnosis and treatment of hypertension.

Identifying standout practices within the Kiln area is crucial. These practices often serve as models for best practices in hypertension management. They may excel in areas such as patient education, medication adherence programs, and proactive monitoring. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient data, automate reminders, and facilitate communication are often better positioned to provide comprehensive care. Further, clinics that have a dedicated team of nurses, medical assistants, and other support staff play a vital role in patient care.

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool to bridge the gap in healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in Kiln is a significant factor in the Hypertension Score. Telemedicine can enable patients to consult with their physicians remotely, monitor their blood pressure at home, and receive timely interventions. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring programs, and online patient portals are contributing to improved hypertension control. This is especially important for patients with mobility issues or transportation challenges.

The connection between mental health and hypertension is increasingly recognized. Chronic stress and anxiety can elevate blood pressure, making it more difficult to control. The availability of mental health resources, such as counseling services and psychiatric support, within the Kiln area is therefore an integral part of the Hypertension Score. Practices that integrate mental health screenings into their routine care and offer referrals to mental health professionals are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health providers is essential for comprehensive hypertension management.

Specific practices in Kiln, like the Kiln Medical Clinic, offer a range of services. They might have a focus on preventative care, offering blood pressure screenings and lifestyle counseling. Another practice, the Hancock Medical Clinic, might have a more advanced approach, incorporating telehealth capabilities and patient education programs. The performance of these practices can be measured by patient satisfaction scores, the percentage of patients achieving blood pressure control, and the rate of complications related to hypertension.

The availability of specialists in cardiology and nephrology is also relevant. While primary care physicians are the first line of defense in hypertension management, patients with complex cases or uncontrolled hypertension may require referral to specialists. The proximity of these specialists and the efficiency of the referral process are important considerations. Access to diagnostic services, such as echocardiograms and kidney function tests, is also critical for comprehensive care.

Patient education plays a crucial role in hypertension control. Practices that provide educational materials, offer group classes, and empower patients to take an active role in their health management are likely to achieve better outcomes. This includes educating patients about lifestyle modifications, such as diet, exercise, and stress management, as well as the importance of medication adherence.

The local pharmacy network also contributes to the Hypertension Score. The availability of affordable medications, the ease of prescription refills, and the pharmacist's role in patient counseling are all important factors. Pharmacies that offer medication synchronization programs and provide medication therapy management services can improve patient adherence and outcomes.

Evaluating the overall Hypertension Score for Kiln, Mississippi, requires a comprehensive assessment of all these factors. The score is not a static number but a reflection of the current state of healthcare delivery and the community's commitment to addressing this important health issue. The score will be influenced by the physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, the quality of primary care practices, and the accessibility of specialist care.

Improvements to the Hypertension Score can be achieved through several strategies. Increasing the number of primary care physicians in the area is a priority. Expanding telemedicine services and promoting the use of remote monitoring devices can improve access to care. Integrating mental health services into primary care practices can address the holistic needs of patients. Enhancing patient education programs and promoting healthy lifestyles can empower patients to take control of their health.

The availability of community resources also plays a role. Local health departments, community centers, and faith-based organizations can provide support and education to patients with hypertension. Partnerships between healthcare providers and community organizations can create a more supportive environment for patients.

In conclusion, the Hypertension Score for Kiln, Mississippi, is a complex measure reflecting the quality and accessibility of healthcare services. Addressing the challenges of hypertension management requires a collaborative effort involving healthcare providers, patients, community organizations, and policymakers. A focus on improving access to care, promoting patient education, and integrating mental health services can lead to better outcomes and a healthier community.

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