39572, Pearlington, Mississippi Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 39572, Pearlington, Mississippi is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.01 percent of the residents in 39572 has some form of health insurance. 53.17 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 44.83 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 39572 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 86 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39572. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 369 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 173 health care providers accessible to residents in 39572, Pearlington, Mississippi.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Pearlington, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39572)

The health of a community, especially its ability to manage prevalent conditions like hypertension, is intricately linked to the accessibility and quality of its healthcare resources. This analysis focuses on Pearlington, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39572), examining the landscape of primary care physicians, their practices, and the resources available to manage hypertension effectively. A ‘Hypertension Score’ isn't a formal, standardized metric, but rather a composite assessment reflecting the availability of key factors influencing hypertension control. This analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the presence of mental health support – all crucial components in a successful hypertension management strategy.

Pearlington, situated within Hancock County, faces the typical challenges of rural healthcare delivery. One of the primary concerns is the physician-to-patient ratio. Determining an exact, real-time ratio is difficult due to constantly shifting physician availability and patient demographics. However, public data sources and healthcare directories suggest a potential shortage of primary care physicians relative to the population. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced patient access, and potentially compromised continuity of care, all of which can negatively impact hypertension management. A lower physician-to-patient ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, would contribute to a lower 'Hypertension Score'.

Within Pearlington and the surrounding areas, the characteristics of individual primary care practices vary considerably. Some practices are likely to be smaller, independent operations, while others may be part of larger healthcare networks. The size and structure of a practice can influence its ability to offer comprehensive services. Practices with integrated pharmacies, on-site laboratory services, and readily available access to specialists (like cardiologists or nephrologists) would receive higher marks in this assessment. These features streamline patient care, enabling quicker diagnosis, treatment initiation, and ongoing monitoring, which are all vital for hypertension control. The presence of certified diabetes educators or registered dietitians within a practice would also positively influence the score.

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool to bridge the gap in healthcare access, particularly in rural communities. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in Pearlington is a significant factor. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring (e.g., blood pressure tracking via connected devices), and online patient portals for communication and medication refills would contribute significantly to a higher 'Hypertension Score'. Telemedicine allows patients to receive timely care, especially those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges, thus improving adherence to treatment plans and reducing the risk of complications associated with uncontrolled hypertension.

The intricate relationship between mental health and hypertension is increasingly recognized. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can exacerbate hypertension and hinder adherence to treatment regimens. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through readily accessible referrals is critical. Practices that have integrated behavioral health specialists, offer on-site counseling, or have established strong referral pathways to mental health providers would contribute to a higher 'Hypertension Score'. The ability to address both the physical and mental aspects of a patient's health is crucial for successful hypertension management.

Assessing the 'Hypertension Score' also necessitates evaluating the practices' commitment to patient education and preventative care. Practices that actively engage patients in understanding their condition, promoting healthy lifestyle choices (diet, exercise, smoking cessation), and providing regular check-ups and screenings would receive higher marks. The availability of educational materials, support groups, and personalized counseling services are all indicators of a proactive approach to hypertension management. This proactive approach is vital in preventing the onset of hypertension and managing existing cases effectively.

Identifying standout practices within the Pearlington area requires a deeper dive into individual practice characteristics. Some practices may have adopted innovative approaches to patient care, such as using electronic health records to track patient progress, implementing population health management strategies, or participating in quality improvement initiatives. These practices would likely demonstrate better outcomes in hypertension control. Practices that actively participate in community health initiatives, such as health fairs or educational campaigns, would also be recognized for their commitment to improving the overall health of the community.

The presence of specialized resources, such as certified hypertension specialists or dedicated hypertension clinics, would also significantly impact the 'Hypertension Score'. These specialists possess advanced knowledge and expertise in managing complex hypertension cases, offering specialized diagnostic and treatment options. Their availability within the community or through readily accessible referral networks would enhance the overall quality of hypertension care.

In conclusion, the 'Hypertension Score' for Pearlington, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39572) is a complex assessment reflecting the interplay of physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and preventative care initiatives. The score is likely influenced by the challenges of rural healthcare delivery, including potential physician shortages and the need for innovative approaches to improve access to care. The integration of technology, the availability of mental health support, and a strong emphasis on patient education are all crucial components for improving the management of hypertension within the community.

To gain a more granular understanding of the healthcare landscape in Pearlington and the surrounding areas, including the location of primary care practices, their services, and the availability of specialized resources, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of healthcare resources, helping you to identify practices, assess their proximity, and understand the overall accessibility of care within the community.