40070, Sulphur, Kentucky Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 40070, Sulphur, Kentucky is 15 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.56 percent of the residents in 40070 has some form of health insurance. 34.03 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 54.63 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 40070 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 92 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 40070. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 48 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 875 health care providers accessible to residents in 40070, Sulphur, Kentucky.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 40070 & Primary Care in Sulphur

Analyzing the availability and quality of primary care, specifically concerning hypertension management, within Sulphur, Kentucky (ZIP code 40070) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, highlight exemplary practices, examine telemedicine adoption, and assess the integration of mental health resources. The ultimate goal is to provide a comprehensive 'Hypertension Score' assessment, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a foundational metric. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally suggests better access to care. Conversely, a high ratio can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially less individualized attention. Accurately determining this ratio requires data from multiple sources, including the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure, the U.S. Census Bureau, and potentially insurance provider databases. Publicly available data might not always reflect the full picture, as it can be challenging to account for physicians who are nearing retirement, have limited practice hours, or are not actively accepting new patients. Therefore, this analysis will acknowledge the inherent limitations of relying solely on publicly available data.

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive. This involves evaluating factors beyond just the number of physicians. Patient reviews, online ratings, and referrals from other healthcare professionals can offer valuable insights. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to evidence-based hypertension management, such as consistent blood pressure monitoring, medication adherence support, and lifestyle counseling, should be recognized. Furthermore, practices that actively engage in patient education and provide resources on healthy eating, exercise, and stress management are crucial for successful hypertension control. The presence of certified diabetes educators or registered dietitians within a practice could be a significant positive indicator.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas like Sulphur. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, improve access to specialists, and facilitate more frequent monitoring of blood pressure. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring devices, and secure online patient portals demonstrate a commitment to utilizing technology to enhance patient care. The availability of telehealth services can be a significant advantage for patients who may struggle with transportation or have limited mobility. However, it is crucial to assess the quality of these telehealth offerings. Are the virtual consultations conducted by qualified healthcare professionals? Is the technology user-friendly and accessible to all patients, regardless of their technical proficiency?

The integration of mental health resources is a critical, often overlooked, aspect of hypertension management. Chronic stress and mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression, can significantly impact blood pressure. Practices that screen for mental health issues, offer on-site counseling services, or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals are better equipped to provide holistic care. This integrated approach recognizes the interconnectedness of physical and mental well-being. The presence of social workers or behavioral health specialists within a primary care practice can be a significant advantage in addressing the complex needs of patients with hypertension.

Analyzing the availability of mental health resources involves evaluating the number of mental health professionals in the area, the types of services offered, and the ease of access to these services. This requires looking beyond the primary care setting and examining the broader healthcare ecosystem. Are there adequate numbers of psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists in Sulphur? Are these professionals accepting new patients? Are there any support groups or community resources available for individuals with hypertension and related mental health challenges?

The 'Hypertension Score' for doctors in ZIP code 40070 will be a composite measure, considering the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. Each factor will be assigned a weighted value based on its perceived importance. For example, the availability of mental health resources might be given a higher weight than the number of patient reviews. The final score will be presented on a scale, with a higher score indicating a more favorable environment for hypertension management. This score is not an absolute measure but rather a relative comparison, providing a snapshot of the healthcare landscape in Sulphur.

The analysis will consider the limitations of the data available. It will acknowledge that some information, such as the detailed clinical practices of individual physicians, may not be readily accessible. The score will be based on the best available information, and the methodology will be transparently documented. The score will be updated periodically to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. This is a dynamic process, and the score will be continuously refined as new data becomes available.

The final 'Hypertension Score' will be a valuable tool for patients seeking primary care in Sulphur. It will provide a starting point for patients to research and compare different practices. It will also be useful for healthcare providers, as it can highlight areas where improvements are needed. The score can be used to identify best practices and to inform the development of programs aimed at improving hypertension management in the community. This score is designed to empower patients to make informed decisions about their healthcare.

In conclusion, this analysis provides a framework for assessing the availability and quality of primary care for hypertension management in Sulphur, Kentucky. By considering physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, a comprehensive 'Hypertension Score' can be developed. This score can be a valuable resource for both patients and healthcare providers.

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