39571, Pass Christian, Mississippi Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 39571, Pass Christian, Mississippi is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.23 percent of the residents in 39571 has some form of health insurance. 36.76 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.32 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 39571 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,266 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39571. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,559 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,023 health care providers accessible to residents in 39571, Pass Christian, Mississippi.

**Hypertension Score Analysis: Pass Christian, MS (ZIP Code 39571)**

Analyzing hypertension management within Pass Christian, Mississippi (ZIP code 39571) requires a multifaceted approach, considering not only the medical professionals available but also the broader healthcare landscape, including access to care, technology adoption, and the integration of mental health services. A comprehensive 'Hypertension Score' would reflect these interconnected elements, providing a nuanced understanding of the quality and accessibility of care for individuals managing this prevalent condition.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical starting point. Determining the exact number of primary care physicians (PCPs) practicing within the 39571 ZIP code, and then calculating the patient population they serve, provides a baseline understanding of access. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of PCPs, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment of hypertension. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility, allowing patients to receive timely care and follow-up appointments, which are crucial for effective hypertension management. Publicly available data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and the Mississippi State Department of Health can be used to obtain this information, but it requires careful analysis and verification.

Beyond sheer numbers, the distribution of physicians matters. Are PCPs clustered in specific areas of Pass Christian, leaving other neighborhoods underserved? Are there enough specialists, such as cardiologists and nephrologists, available for patients with complex cases or complications arising from hypertension? The presence of specialists is crucial for providing comprehensive care and managing the potential for end-organ damage. A 'Hypertension Score' should consider the availability and proximity of these specialized services.

Identifying standout practices within the 39571 ZIP code is essential. These practices often demonstrate best practices in hypertension management, such as implementing standardized protocols for blood pressure monitoring, providing patient education on lifestyle modifications (diet, exercise, stress management), and actively using medication titration to achieve optimal blood pressure control. Examining patient reviews, practice websites, and professional recognitions (e.g., awards for quality of care) can help identify these exemplary practices. Furthermore, assessing the practices' use of electronic health records (EHRs) and their ability to share data with other providers is important for care coordination.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and medication management through telehealth platforms can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations, transportation challenges, or those living in geographically isolated areas. Practices that have embraced telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and can potentially improve adherence to treatment plans. A 'Hypertension Score' should reflect the extent to which practices in the 39571 ZIP code have integrated telehealth into their services.

The integration of mental health resources is often overlooked in hypertension management, but it is incredibly important. Stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure control. Practices that offer on-site mental health services or have established referral networks with mental health professionals are better equipped to provide holistic care. This integrated approach can address the psychological factors that may be contributing to hypertension and improve overall patient outcomes. The 'Hypertension Score' should assess the availability of these resources.

Primary care availability in Pass Christian, as a whole, is a critical factor. Even if individual practices are excellent, limited overall access to primary care can undermine hypertension management efforts. The 'Hypertension Score' should consider the availability of after-hours care, weekend appointments, and walk-in clinics, as these options can improve access for patients who may have difficulty scheduling appointments during regular business hours. The presence of community health centers and federally qualified health centers (FQHCs), which often serve vulnerable populations, should also be evaluated.

The 'Hypertension Score' should also take into account the availability of patient education materials and resources. Practices that provide educational brochures, online resources, or group classes on hypertension management demonstrate a commitment to empowering patients to take an active role in their health. These resources can help patients understand their condition, make informed decisions about their treatment, and adopt healthy lifestyle habits.

Furthermore, assessing the practices' adherence to national guidelines for hypertension management, such as those established by the American Heart Association (AHA) and the American College of Cardiology (ACC), is important. Practices that consistently follow these guidelines are more likely to provide evidence-based care and achieve optimal patient outcomes. This can be evaluated through chart reviews, quality improvement initiatives, and participation in national registries.

The 'Hypertension Score' should also consider the affordability of care. The availability of financial assistance programs, such as those offered by pharmaceutical companies or community organizations, can help patients afford their medications and other necessary services. Practices that are knowledgeable about these resources and can assist patients in accessing them demonstrate a commitment to addressing the financial barriers to care.

In conclusion, a comprehensive 'Hypertension Score' for Pass Christian, MS (39571) requires a detailed assessment of physician-to-patient ratios, the distribution of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, the availability of patient education, and the affordability of care. By evaluating these factors, we can gain a nuanced understanding of the quality and accessibility of hypertension management in the community.

To visualize the distribution of these resources and analyze the geographic disparities in access to care, consider exploring the power of data visualization with CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can help you understand where resources are located, identify areas with limited access, and visualize key metrics related to hypertension management.