40115, Custer, Kentucky Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 40115, Custer, Kentucky is 8 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.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Custer, KY (ZIP Code 40115) & Primary Care Landscape

Analyzing the healthcare landscape within ZIP code 40115, encompassing Custer, Kentucky, requires a multi-faceted approach, particularly when focusing on hypertension management. This analysis considers factors impacting patient access to care, the quality of primary care services, and the availability of resources crucial for managing this prevalent condition. We'll assess physician-to-patient ratios, highlight exemplary practices, examine telemedicine adoption, and evaluate the integration of mental health support, all contributing to a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" for the area.

The foundation of effective hypertension management lies in readily accessible primary care. Unfortunately, rural areas like Custer often face challenges in this regard. Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator. A low ratio, meaning a smaller number of physicians serving a larger population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time per patient visit, and potentially delayed diagnoses or inadequate follow-up care. Data from the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure, combined with U.S. Census Bureau population estimates for the 40115 ZIP code, provides a preliminary physician-to-patient ratio. However, this needs to be refined by considering the specialization of physicians (e.g., cardiologists vs. general practitioners) and the actual availability of appointments. Further investigation into the acceptance of new patients by local practices is also essential.

Identifying standout practices within Custer is crucial. These practices often demonstrate superior hypertension management protocols, potentially including evidence-based guidelines for blood pressure control, patient education programs, and proactive follow-up strategies. Assessing these practices involves evaluating their adherence to national guidelines (e.g., those from the American Heart Association), their use of electronic health records (EHRs) for tracking patient data and medication adherence, and their patient satisfaction scores. Reviews from patients, if available, can provide valuable insights into the quality of care and the patient experience. Identifying practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, such as those focused on improving blood pressure control rates, would also be a key factor.

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine offers a potential solution to access barriers by enabling remote consultations, medication management, and patient education. Evaluating the level of telemedicine adoption among primary care providers in Custer is a crucial component of the Hypertension Score. This involves assessing the availability of virtual visits, the use of remote patient monitoring devices (e.g., home blood pressure cuffs), and the integration of telemedicine platforms into the practices' workflows. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can potentially improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living far from medical facilities.

The link between mental health and hypertension is well-established. Stress, anxiety, and depression can contribute to elevated blood pressure and complicate treatment. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a vital component of a comprehensive hypertension management strategy. Assessing the presence of mental health professionals (e.g., psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists) within the Custer area is essential. This includes evaluating the accessibility of these professionals, the availability of mental health services within primary care practices, and the existence of collaborative care models that integrate mental health support into the overall treatment plan. Practices that actively screen for mental health issues and provide referrals to mental health professionals would receive a higher score.

Beyond the immediate medical resources, understanding the broader community environment is also important. Factors such as access to healthy food options, opportunities for physical activity, and community-based health education programs can significantly impact hypertension control. Assessing the availability of these resources, such as farmers' markets, walking trails, and community health initiatives, provides a more holistic view of the healthcare landscape.

The "Hypertension Score" is not a single number but a composite assessment based on the factors discussed. It considers the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of care provided by local practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the presence of community-based support systems. Each factor is weighted based on its relative importance in achieving optimal hypertension management. A higher score would indicate a more favorable environment for patients with hypertension, characterized by greater access to care, high-quality services, and comprehensive support.

The analysis of the Custer, KY (ZIP code 40115) healthcare landscape reveals potential challenges in hypertension management. Rural areas often face access limitations due to lower physician-to-patient ratios. Furthermore, the extent of telemedicine adoption and the integration of mental health resources are critical areas for improvement. Identifying standout practices and promoting best practices in hypertension management are essential for improving patient outcomes.

To gain a more in-depth understanding of the healthcare landscape in Custer, including the specific locations of healthcare providers, their services, and the availability of resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides detailed geospatial data and analysis tools that can help you visualize and understand the healthcare environment in your area.