40353, Mount Sterling, Kentucky Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 40353, Mount Sterling, Kentucky is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.42 percent of the residents in 40353 has some form of health insurance. 49.70 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 55.04 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 40353 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,176 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 40353. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,877 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,587 health care providers accessible to residents in 40353, Mount Sterling, Kentucky.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Primary Care in Mount Sterling, KY (ZIP Code 40353)

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care services within Mount Sterling, Kentucky (ZIP code 40353), with a specific focus on factors relevant to individuals managing arthritis. We’ll examine physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial considerations for arthritis sufferers. This assessment is designed to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape in this community.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a foundational indicator of accessibility. While publicly available data on precise ratios within a specific ZIP code can be limited, we can infer trends based on broader county-level statistics and national benchmarks. Montgomery County, where Mount Sterling is located, likely faces challenges common to rural areas: a potentially lower concentration of primary care physicians compared to urban centers. This can translate to longer wait times for appointments, increased travel distances, and potentially a more strained relationship between patients and their primary care providers. Arthritis management often requires frequent check-ups, medication adjustments, and referrals to specialists, making easy access to a primary care physician paramount.

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several key criteria. These include the availability of comprehensive services, the integration of specialized care (like rheumatology referrals), patient reviews, and the adoption of technologies that enhance patient care. Practices that prioritize patient education, offer proactive arthritis management strategies, and demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement are likely to be considered standout. Researching online reviews, consulting with local community health organizations, and contacting the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure can provide valuable insights into the reputation and quality of care offered by individual practices.

Telemedicine has emerged as a transformative tool in healthcare, particularly for individuals with chronic conditions like arthritis. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, monitor symptoms remotely, and receive medication refills online can significantly improve convenience and reduce the burden of travel. The level of telemedicine adoption among primary care practices in Mount Sterling is a crucial factor in our assessment. Practices that embrace telemedicine offer a distinct advantage, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in more remote areas. Investigating the availability of virtual appointments, remote monitoring programs, and secure online portals is essential.

The often-overlooked connection between mental health and chronic pain is critical for arthritis sufferers. Chronic pain can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. Primary care practices that recognize this connection and integrate mental health resources into their care model are highly valued. This includes offering on-site mental health professionals, providing referrals to therapists and psychiatrists, and promoting awareness of mental health support services. The presence of a collaborative care model, where primary care physicians work closely with mental health specialists, is a significant advantage for patients.

Assessing the availability of specific resources for arthritis management is also essential. This includes access to physical therapy, occupational therapy, and pain management specialists. Practices that offer these services or have established referral networks to them demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive arthritis care. The availability of patient education materials, support groups, and other resources can also significantly improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

In conclusion, evaluating the arthritis score for primary care in Mount Sterling involves a multifaceted assessment. The physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources are all critical factors. A practice’s ability to provide comprehensive arthritis care, including access to specialized services and patient education, is also crucial. This analysis highlights the importance of considering these factors when seeking primary care in this community.

For a more detailed visualization of healthcare resources in Mount Sterling and surrounding areas, including the locations of primary care practices, specialists, pharmacies, and other relevant services, we recommend utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a user-friendly platform for exploring geographic data and can assist in identifying the healthcare providers that best meet your individual needs.