40339, Keene, Kentucky Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 40339, Keene, Kentucky is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.00 percent of the residents in 40339 has some form of health insurance. 53.50 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.67 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 40339 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 40339. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 49 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,514 health care providers accessible to residents in 40339, Keene, Kentucky.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Keene, Kentucky (ZIP Code 40339)

This analysis provides an "Arthritis Score" assessment for primary care physicians (PCPs) within ZIP code 40339 (Keene, Kentucky), focusing on factors relevant to arthritis patients. The score is not a formal, standardized metric but rather a composite evaluation based on publicly available information and reasonable assumptions about care quality. The analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and integration with mental health resources, all crucial for effective arthritis management.

Keene, a small community, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The availability of specialized rheumatology care is likely limited within the immediate ZIP code, making the quality and accessibility of primary care particularly critical. A strong PCP can serve as the initial point of contact, provide ongoing management, and facilitate referrals to specialists when necessary. The "Arthritis Score" aims to highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape in this context.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Access:**

One of the fundamental aspects influencing the "Arthritis Score" is the physician-to-patient ratio. A higher ratio, meaning fewer patients per physician, generally suggests better access to care, including appointment availability and more personalized attention. Publicly available data sources, such as the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA), can provide estimates of physician density within the county (Jessamine County, where Keene is located). However, these figures often don't reflect the specific realities within a single ZIP code.

In Keene, the small population likely means a limited number of PCPs directly serving the area. This could lead to a higher patient load per physician, potentially impacting appointment wait times and the time available for each patient visit. For arthritis patients, who often require regular check-ups, medication adjustments, and education, timely access to their PCP is paramount. A low physician-to-patient ratio is thus a significant positive factor in the "Arthritis Score." The analysis will consider the proximity of practices to Keene and the potential impact on patient access.

**Standout Practices and Their Characteristics:**

Identifying "standout practices" requires examining various factors, including practice size, the range of services offered, and patient reviews. Larger practices might have more resources, such as on-site labs or physical therapy services, which can be beneficial for arthritis patients. These features contribute positively to the "Arthritis Score." Practices with a focus on chronic disease management, including arthritis, are particularly valuable.

Patient reviews, readily available on platforms like Google Reviews and Healthgrades, offer valuable insights into patient experiences. Reviews highlighting physician empathy, clear communication, and effective management of chronic conditions are crucial. Practices with consistently positive reviews related to arthritis care will receive a higher score. The analysis will also consider the presence of certified medical assistants or nurses who can provide patient education and support.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Impact:**

Telemedicine has become increasingly important, particularly for managing chronic conditions like arthritis. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving access to care, especially for those with mobility limitations. The "Arthritis Score" will assess the extent of telemedicine adoption among PCPs in Keene.

Practices offering virtual appointments for follow-up visits, medication management, and even initial consultations will receive a higher score. The availability of secure online portals for communication and access to medical records is another positive factor. Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for patients who live in rural areas or have difficulty traveling to appointments. The analysis will investigate which practices offer telehealth options and the types of services provided remotely.

**Mental Health Resources and Integrated Care:**

Arthritis can significantly impact mental health, leading to depression, anxiety, and chronic pain. Integrated care, where mental health services are readily available or coordinated with primary care, is crucial for comprehensive arthritis management. The "Arthritis Score" will evaluate the integration of mental health resources within the practices.

Practices that have on-site mental health professionals or strong referral networks to mental health providers will receive a higher score. Collaboration between PCPs and mental health specialists is essential for addressing the psychological aspects of arthritis. The analysis will also consider the availability of resources such as support groups or educational materials on managing the emotional challenges of arthritis. The presence of pain management specialists within the practice or referral networks is another positive indicator.

**Overall Assessment and Conclusion:**

The "Arthritis Score" for PCPs in Keene, Kentucky (ZIP code 40339) is a complex assessment. The final score will reflect the balance of factors discussed above. Limited access to specialized rheumatology care makes the role of primary care even more critical. Practices with favorable physician-to-patient ratios, positive patient reviews, telemedicine adoption, and integrated mental health resources will receive higher scores.

The analysis will provide a general overview of the healthcare landscape in Keene, highlighting areas of strength and potential weaknesses. The goal is to provide insights that can help patients make informed decisions about their healthcare and to encourage improvements in arthritis care within the community.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Keene, including the location of practices, the proximity of specialists, and other relevant data, consider using CartoChrome maps. Explore the interactive maps to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in the area.