42366, Philpot, Kentucky Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 42366, Philpot, Kentucky is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.27 percent of the residents in 42366 has some form of health insurance. 28.82 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 80.38 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 42366 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,367 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 42366. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 777 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 721 health care providers accessible to residents in 42366, Philpot, Kentucky.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Philpot, KY (ZIP Code 42366)

This analysis delves into the landscape of arthritis care within Philpot, Kentucky (ZIP code 42366), evaluating the availability of primary care physicians and the resources available to patients. The goal is to provide an "Arthritis Score" based on factors crucial for effective arthritis management, including physician access, practice characteristics, and support systems. This score is not a numerical value but rather a qualitative assessment reflecting the overall health of the local healthcare ecosystem for individuals living with arthritis.

The foundation of effective arthritis care rests on accessible primary care. In Philpot, assessing primary care availability is paramount. The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a key indicator. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of primary care physicians relative to the population, can create significant barriers to timely diagnosis, treatment initiation, and ongoing management. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests better access, potentially leading to improved patient outcomes. Publicly available data from sources like the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure and the US Census Bureau will be used to approximate this ratio. It is vital to acknowledge that this is an estimate, and the actual ratio may vary due to factors like physician specialization, retirement, and patient migration.

Beyond raw numbers, the distribution of primary care physicians within the ZIP code is important. Are physicians clustered in a specific area, or are they dispersed throughout the community? This geographical distribution directly impacts patient access, particularly for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Furthermore, the acceptance of new patients by existing practices is a crucial factor. Practices actively accepting new patients, especially those with chronic conditions like arthritis, signal a willingness to serve the community's healthcare needs. This openness is a positive indicator for the Arthritis Score.

The characteristics of the primary care practices themselves contribute significantly to the overall score. The presence of electronic health records (EHRs) is a modern necessity, allowing for efficient information sharing and care coordination. Practices utilizing EHRs are better equipped to manage patient data, track progress, and communicate with specialists. Another important aspect is the availability of on-site diagnostic services. Access to X-rays, blood tests, and other essential diagnostic tools within the primary care setting streamlines the diagnostic process and reduces the need for patients to travel to multiple locations.

Telemedicine adoption is a critical element in modern healthcare, particularly for managing chronic conditions like arthritis. The ability to consult with a physician remotely, through video conferencing or phone calls, offers several advantages. It can reduce travel time, improve access for patients in rural areas, and provide convenient follow-up appointments. Practices actively utilizing telemedicine technologies will receive a higher score in this assessment. The availability of telemedicine platforms and the willingness of physicians to embrace this technology demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care.

Mental health support is often overlooked in the context of arthritis management, but it plays a vital role in patient well-being. Chronic pain and the limitations imposed by arthritis can significantly impact mental health, leading to depression, anxiety, and social isolation. The availability of mental health resources, either within the primary care practice or through referrals to external providers, is a crucial component of comprehensive arthritis care. Practices that integrate mental health screening and offer access to mental health professionals will be favorably evaluated. This integration demonstrates a holistic approach to patient care, recognizing the interconnectedness of physical and mental health.

Standout practices within the 42366 ZIP code will be identified based on the criteria discussed above. These practices will be those that demonstrate a strong commitment to patient-centered care, embracing technology, and offering comprehensive services. The analysis will highlight practices with excellent physician-to-patient ratios, robust EHR systems, telemedicine capabilities, and a commitment to mental health support. These practices will serve as models for other providers in the area.

The analysis will also consider the availability of resources beyond primary care. Are there rheumatologists in the area, or do patients need to travel for specialized care? The presence of physical therapy services, occupational therapy, and pain management specialists also contributes to the overall Arthritis Score. The availability of these ancillary services streamlines the treatment process and improves patient outcomes.

Finally, patient reviews and testimonials offer valuable insights into the quality of care provided by local physicians. Publicly available reviews from sources like Google, Healthgrades, and Vitals will be examined to gauge patient satisfaction, assess communication skills, and evaluate the overall patient experience. Positive reviews and testimonials will contribute to a higher score for the practices in question.

In conclusion, the Arthritis Score for Philpot, KY (ZIP code 42366) will be a qualitative assessment based on the factors discussed above. It will reflect the availability of primary care physicians, the characteristics of their practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the availability of ancillary services. The score will identify standout practices and highlight areas where improvements are needed to enhance arthritis care in the community. This analysis aims to provide valuable information for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers, ultimately contributing to improved health outcomes for individuals living with arthritis in Philpot.

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