39581, Pascagoula, Mississippi Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 39581, Pascagoula, Mississippi is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.11 percent of the residents in 39581 has some form of health insurance. 39.59 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 54.19 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 39581 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,310 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39581. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,529 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,606 health care providers accessible to residents in 39581, Pascagoula, Mississippi.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Pascagoula, MS (ZIP Code 39581)

Analyzing hypertension management within Pascagoula, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39581) requires a multifaceted approach. We'll assess the availability and quality of primary care physicians, the adoption of telehealth strategies, and the integration of mental health resources – all critical components of effective hypertension control. This analysis will culminate in a "Hypertension Score" reflecting the overall landscape of care, providing insights for both patients and healthcare providers.

The cornerstone of hypertension management lies in accessible primary care. In Pascagoula, the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial factor. While precise figures fluctuate, the availability of primary care physicians, including general practitioners, family medicine specialists, and internal medicine specialists, directly impacts the ability of residents to receive timely screenings, diagnoses, and ongoing treatment. A low physician-to-patient ratio can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed or inadequate care. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility and the potential for more comprehensive care. The presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) and community clinics, which often serve underserved populations, further influences the overall accessibility picture. These clinics can help bridge gaps in care, particularly for individuals with limited financial resources or those residing in areas with fewer private practices.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care practices is paramount. This includes the adoption of evidence-based guidelines for hypertension management, the use of electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient data and treatment progress, and the implementation of patient education programs. Practices that proactively monitor blood pressure, offer lifestyle counseling (including dietary guidance and exercise recommendations), and provide medication management support are more likely to achieve positive patient outcomes. Identifying standout practices within Pascagoula requires evaluating their adherence to these best practices. This involves assessing their commitment to comprehensive patient care, their use of technology to improve efficiency and accuracy, and their ability to foster strong patient-physician relationships.

Telemedicine adoption presents a significant opportunity to enhance hypertension management in Pascagoula. Telehealth, including virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and medication refills, can improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations, transportation challenges, or those living in geographically remote areas. The utilization of telehealth can also facilitate more frequent monitoring of blood pressure, allowing physicians to make timely adjustments to treatment plans. The extent to which primary care practices in 39581 have embraced telemedicine, including the types of services offered and the patient populations served, is a critical component of the Hypertension Score. Practices that have successfully integrated telehealth into their workflow are likely to demonstrate improved patient engagement and better blood pressure control.

The often-overlooked connection between mental health and hypertension necessitates careful consideration. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure levels and adherence to treatment plans. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources, including therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is crucial for comprehensive hypertension management. Practices that offer integrated mental health services, or have established referral pathways to mental health providers, are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients. The presence of mental health support within the primary care setting, or readily accessible external resources, is a key factor in achieving optimal blood pressure control. The Hypertension Score must reflect the availability and integration of these essential mental health services.

The Hypertension Score for Pascagoula (39581) will be a composite measure, incorporating these key factors. It will reflect the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care practices (including their adherence to evidence-based guidelines and use of technology), the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. A higher score indicates a more favorable environment for hypertension management, with greater access to care, better quality of services, and a more holistic approach to patient well-being. A lower score suggests areas for improvement, such as increasing the number of primary care physicians, enhancing the quality of care, expanding telemedicine services, and integrating mental health support.

The analysis will be refined by considering the specific demographics of Pascagoula. Factors such as the prevalence of hypertension within the community, the age distribution of the population, and the socioeconomic status of residents can influence the specific challenges and opportunities for hypertension management. Understanding these demographic nuances is essential for tailoring interventions and resources to meet the unique needs of the population. This includes assessing the prevalence of comorbidities, such as diabetes and obesity, which often co-occur with hypertension and require coordinated care.

The overall assessment also considers the presence of community-based programs and initiatives aimed at promoting healthy lifestyles and preventing hypertension. These may include public health campaigns, wellness programs offered by employers, and initiatives focused on improving access to healthy foods and opportunities for physical activity. The integration of these community resources into the broader healthcare ecosystem can significantly enhance the effectiveness of hypertension management efforts. The Hypertension Score will reflect the degree to which these community-based programs are integrated into the overall healthcare landscape.

The final Hypertension Score will provide a valuable benchmark for assessing the effectiveness of hypertension management in Pascagoula. It will also serve as a tool for identifying areas where improvements are needed. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the current system, healthcare providers, policymakers, and community organizations can work collaboratively to improve the health and well-being of the residents of Pascagoula. This collaborative effort is critical for reducing the burden of hypertension and its associated complications.

In conclusion, understanding the intricacies of hypertension management in Pascagoula, Mississippi, requires a comprehensive evaluation of available resources and practices. For a detailed, visually rich understanding of the healthcare landscape in Pascagoula, including the geographic distribution of primary care physicians, the location of clinics, and the accessibility of resources, consider exploring the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their platform provides a dynamic and data-driven perspective on healthcare access and utilization within the community.