39576, Waveland, Mississippi Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 39576, Waveland, Mississippi is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.53 percent of the residents in 39576 has some form of health insurance. 39.05 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.34 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 39576 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,540 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39576. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 955 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 747 health care providers accessible to residents in 39576, Waveland, Mississippi.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Waveland, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39576)

This analysis provides a comprehensive evaluation of hypertension care within Waveland, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39576), focusing on the availability of primary care physicians, the quality of care delivered, and the integration of modern healthcare practices. The goal is to assess the overall "Hypertension Score" for the community, considering factors that impact patient access to care and the effectiveness of treatment. This assessment will incorporate physician-to-patient ratios, highlight notable practices, examine telemedicine adoption, and evaluate the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components in managing this prevalent condition.

Waveland, a coastal community, faces unique challenges in healthcare delivery, including potential disruptions from hurricanes and the need to serve a diverse population. The prevalence of hypertension, like in many areas, is likely significant, making effective management a critical public health concern. The "Hypertension Score" will reflect the community's ability to provide timely diagnoses, consistent treatment, and ongoing support for individuals with hypertension.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of access to care. In Waveland, the ratio of primary care physicians to the population is a critical factor. A lower ratio (fewer physicians per capita) can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced opportunities for preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility. Researching the exact physician-to-patient ratio for this specific ZIP code is crucial for determining the baseline access level. This data, often available through state medical boards or healthcare analytics firms, will provide a starting point for evaluating the overall healthcare landscape.

Identifying standout practices within Waveland is crucial. Practices that demonstrate exceptional patient outcomes, utilize innovative approaches to care, and actively engage in community outreach deserve recognition. These "best-practice" examples can serve as models for other providers. Key metrics to consider include patient satisfaction scores, the percentage of patients achieving blood pressure control, the frequency of patient education sessions, and the implementation of evidence-based guidelines. Practices that embrace technology, such as electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient data management and patient communication portals, often demonstrate improved outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor in the "Hypertension Score." Telemedicine, the use of technology to provide healthcare remotely, can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural or underserved areas. In Waveland, telemedicine could be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and patient education. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and online patient portals demonstrate a commitment to modern healthcare delivery. The level of telemedicine adoption will be directly reflected in the "Hypertension Score."

The connection between hypertension and mental health is well-established. Stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure control. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is an essential component of comprehensive hypertension care. This includes access to psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and support groups. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices, such as on-site counseling or referrals to mental health specialists, can improve patient outcomes. The "Hypertension Score" will assess the availability and accessibility of these crucial mental health resources within the Waveland community.

Evaluating the effectiveness of hypertension management also involves considering the use of evidence-based guidelines. Practices should adhere to the latest recommendations from organizations such as the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology. This includes the use of appropriate medications, lifestyle modifications (diet, exercise, and smoking cessation), and regular monitoring of blood pressure. The "Hypertension Score" will reflect the extent to which local practices adhere to these guidelines.

The "Hypertension Score" will also consider the availability of patient education resources. Providing patients with clear and concise information about hypertension, its management, and the importance of lifestyle changes is crucial for empowering them to take an active role in their care. This includes educational materials, support groups, and access to registered dietitians and certified diabetes educators. Practices that prioritize patient education will receive higher scores.

Furthermore, the "Hypertension Score" should take into account the community's socioeconomic factors. Poverty, lack of access to healthy food, and limited transportation options can all impact a patient's ability to manage their hypertension. The analysis should consider the availability of community resources, such as food banks, transportation assistance, and social support programs, that can help patients overcome these barriers.

The overall "Hypertension Score" will be a composite metric reflecting all these factors. It will provide a snapshot of the community's ability to effectively manage hypertension and identify areas for improvement. A high score would indicate excellent access to care, effective treatment protocols, and a strong commitment to patient education and support. A lower score would highlight areas where improvements are needed, such as increasing the number of primary care physicians, expanding telemedicine services, or improving access to mental health resources.

The final "Hypertension Score" will be a valuable tool for healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members. It can be used to identify areas where resources are needed, track progress over time, and ultimately improve the health and well-being of the residents of Waveland.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Waveland, including the location of primary care physicians, pharmacies, and other relevant resources, we recommend exploring the interactive maps available through CartoChrome. Their platform provides detailed geographical data and allows for a deeper understanding of the community's healthcare infrastructure.