40115, Custer, Kentucky Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 40115, Custer, Kentucky is 9 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.30 percent of the residents in 40115 has some form of health insurance. 71.16 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 40.56 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 40115 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 234 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 40115. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 155 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 656 health care providers accessible to residents in 40115, Custer, Kentucky.

The analysis below examines the availability and quality of arthritis care in the 40115 ZIP code, focusing on primary care physicians and related resources. Additionally, it assesses the primary care landscape in Custer, Kentucky, considering factors relevant to arthritis patients. The goal is to provide an "Arthritis Score" assessment, evaluating the accessibility and quality of care, including physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health support, crucial for managing chronic conditions like arthritis.

**40115 ZIP Code: Arthritis Care Analysis**

The 40115 ZIP code, encompassing a specific geographic area, requires a granular approach to assess its arthritis care landscape. The "Arthritis Score" will be determined by evaluating several key components. First, physician-to-patient ratios are critical. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and reduced access to specialized care. Data from the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure, combined with population estimates, will be used to calculate this ratio. This data, however, can fluctuate and must be updated regularly.

The analysis must identify standout practices within the 40115 ZIP code. This involves researching practices that specialize in rheumatology or have a demonstrated focus on arthritis management. Factors considered include board certifications, patient reviews, the range of treatments offered (e.g., medication management, physical therapy, injections), and the availability of support services. Identifying practices that excel in these areas will significantly improve the "Arthritis Score."

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important for arthritis patients. Telemedicine offers convenience, particularly for follow-up appointments and medication management. The analysis will investigate which primary care physicians and rheumatologists in the 40115 ZIP code offer telemedicine services. This includes assessing the ease of access, the types of services available remotely, and the integration of telemedicine into the overall care plan. The presence of telemedicine will positively impact the "Arthritis Score."

Mental health resources are essential for arthritis patients. Chronic pain and disability can significantly impact mental well-being. The analysis will explore the availability of mental health professionals (psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists) within the 40115 ZIP code and their willingness to treat patients with arthritis. Collaboration between primary care physicians, rheumatologists, and mental health providers is ideal. The presence of integrated mental health support will also positively influence the "Arthritis Score."

**Primary Care Availability in Custer, Kentucky**

The assessment of primary care availability in Custer, Kentucky, requires a different approach, focusing on the broader landscape and how it impacts arthritis patients. The analysis will begin by determining the number of primary care physicians serving Custer and the surrounding areas. This will involve identifying clinics and practices within a reasonable driving distance. The physician-to-patient ratio in Custer will then be calculated, offering insight into access to care.

The geographic isolation of Custer may pose challenges to accessing specialized care, including rheumatology. The analysis will investigate the distance to the nearest rheumatologists and the availability of transportation options for patients. This includes considering public transportation, ride-sharing services, and patient assistance programs that may help with travel. The proximity and accessibility of specialist care will be a critical factor in determining the "Arthritis Score" for Custer.

Telemedicine's role in Custer becomes even more crucial due to potential geographic limitations. The analysis will assess the availability of telemedicine services from primary care physicians and specialists who serve the area. The ability to access care remotely can significantly improve the quality of life for arthritis patients in Custer. The more available telemedicine options, the higher the "Arthritis Score."

Mental health resources in Custer are crucial. The analysis will assess the availability of mental health professionals and the integration of mental health services into primary care. It will also consider the availability of support groups and other community resources that can help arthritis patients manage their condition. The presence of mental health support will significantly impact the "Arthritis Score" for Custer.

**Overall "Arthritis Score" Considerations**

The final "Arthritis Score" for both the 40115 ZIP code and Custer, Kentucky, will be a composite score based on the factors outlined above. Each factor will be weighted based on its importance to arthritis patients. For example, physician-to-patient ratios and access to specialists might carry a higher weight than telemedicine adoption. The score will be presented in a clear and concise format, providing a comprehensive overview of the arthritis care landscape.

Data sources will include the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure, the US Census Bureau, local healthcare providers, and patient reviews. The analysis will also consider the availability of insurance coverage and the affordability of care. The "Arthritis Score" will be a dynamic measure, subject to change as the healthcare landscape evolves.

The analysis will also consider the availability of ancillary services, such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and pain management clinics. These services are crucial for managing arthritis symptoms and improving patients' quality of life. The presence of these services will positively impact the "Arthritis Score."

The overall goal of the "Arthritis Score" is to provide a valuable resource for arthritis patients, helping them make informed decisions about their care. It also serves as a tool for healthcare providers and policymakers to identify areas for improvement and to address the specific needs of arthritis patients in the region.

**Conclusion**

Understanding the intricacies of healthcare accessibility and quality, particularly for specialized needs like arthritis, demands a detailed, geographically-specific approach. This analysis, aiming to provide an "Arthritis Score," highlights the critical components necessary for a comprehensive assessment. The availability of physicians, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the presence of supportive services are all vital factors.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in the 40115 ZIP code and Custer, Kentucky, and to explore the data in an interactive format, we encourage you to utilize the power of spatial analysis.
**Click here to explore the healthcare landscape with CartoChrome maps.**