39564, Ocean Springs, Mississippi Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 39564, Ocean Springs, Mississippi is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.80 percent of the residents in 39564 has some form of health insurance. 28.77 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.54 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 39564 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 10,531 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39564. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 6,971 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,599 health care providers accessible to residents in 39564, Ocean Springs, Mississippi.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Ocean Springs, MS (ZIP Code 39564)

Ocean Springs, Mississippi, a charming coastal community, faces the same health challenges as many other areas, with hypertension being a significant concern. This analysis delves into the availability of primary care physicians, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources within the context of hypertension management in ZIP code 39564. We will assign a hypothetical "Hypertension Score" based on these factors, aiming to provide a nuanced understanding of the landscape.

The cornerstone of effective hypertension management is access to primary care. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally translates to better access and more frequent checkups. Ocean Springs, like many areas, may struggle with physician shortages. While precise figures fluctuate, the availability of primary care physicians in this ZIP code is a key determinant of the Hypertension Score. We must consider not only the number of physicians but also their specialties, as a robust primary care network includes internal medicine, family medicine, and potentially, cardiology practices.

Standout practices are those that demonstrate excellence in hypertension care. This includes a commitment to evidence-based guidelines, patient education, and proactive management. A practice with a strong focus on hypertension will likely have systems in place for regular blood pressure monitoring, medication management, and lifestyle counseling. These practices often employ certified diabetes educators, registered dietitians, and nurses specializing in chronic disease management. The presence of such specialized staff significantly boosts the Hypertension Score. Furthermore, practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, tracking patient outcomes and making adjustments to their care protocols, are highly valued.

Telemedicine adoption has revolutionized healthcare access, especially for chronic conditions like hypertension. Telemedicine allows for virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and medication management. Practices that embrace telemedicine offer greater convenience and flexibility for patients, particularly those with mobility issues or transportation challenges. A high Hypertension Score would be associated with practices offering telemedicine services, including virtual appointments, remote blood pressure monitoring devices, and secure communication platforms for patient-physician interaction. The ease of access to these technologies can significantly improve medication adherence and overall blood pressure control.

Mental health is intrinsically linked to hypertension management. Stress, anxiety, and depression can elevate blood pressure and negatively impact treatment adherence. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of a comprehensive hypertension care model. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through in-house therapists or through referrals to mental health specialists, are highly rated. This integration may involve screening for mental health conditions, providing counseling services, and collaborating with psychiatrists to manage medication. The presence of these resources is a significant factor in determining the Hypertension Score.

The hypothetical Hypertension Score would also consider the availability of educational resources for patients. This includes materials on healthy eating, exercise, stress management, and medication adherence. Practices that provide these resources, either in-person or online, demonstrate a commitment to empowering patients to take control of their health. The availability of these educational resources is a contributing factor to the overall score.

The Ocean Springs community benefits from its proximity to larger medical centers, which often provide specialized care, including cardiology services. While these services may not be directly within the ZIP code, their accessibility influences the overall healthcare landscape. Practices that have strong referral relationships with cardiologists and other specialists are better positioned to provide comprehensive hypertension care. This collaborative approach is a key element in achieving a high Hypertension Score.

The quality of care also depends on the presence of supporting infrastructure. This includes readily available pharmacies, diagnostic testing facilities, and patient support groups. The ease with which patients can access these resources is a contributing factor to the Hypertension Score. The presence of a robust pharmacy network, offering medication refills and counseling services, is essential. Similarly, the availability of convenient diagnostic testing, such as blood work and electrocardiograms, streamlines the diagnostic process and improves patient outcomes.

The Hypertension Score is not a static measure; it evolves based on changes in healthcare delivery. Ongoing efforts to improve access to care, enhance patient education, and integrate mental health services will contribute to a higher score. Practices that continually strive to improve their services, adapt to new technologies, and prioritize patient-centered care will be at the forefront of hypertension management in Ocean Springs.

In summary, the Hypertension Score for Ocean Springs, MS (ZIP code 39564) is a complex assessment. It considers factors like physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. The presence of these elements, along with supporting infrastructure and a commitment to quality improvement, determines the overall score. The score reflects the community's ability to effectively manage hypertension and improve the health and well-being of its residents.

Ultimately, understanding the geographical distribution of these factors is crucial for both patients and healthcare providers. Visualizing this data on a map can reveal patterns and highlight areas where resources are most needed.
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