40170, Stephensport, Kentucky Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 40170, Stephensport, Kentucky is 12 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.67 percent of the residents in 40170 has some form of health insurance. 73.09 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.84 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 40170 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 82 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 40170. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 190 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 246 health care providers accessible to residents in 40170, Stephensport, Kentucky.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Stephensport, KY (ZIP Code 40170)

Stephensport, Kentucky, nestled within the 40170 ZIP code, presents a unique challenge when evaluating hypertension management and primary care access. This analysis delves into the availability of primary care physicians, their approaches to hypertension management, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, ultimately aiming to provide a ‘Hypertension Score’ assessment. This score, though not a numerical value, will reflect the overall quality and accessibility of care for individuals managing or at risk of developing hypertension in this specific geographic area.

The foundation of effective hypertension control lies in consistent primary care. The physician-to-patient ratio in Stephensport is a critical factor. While precise numbers fluctuate, Stephensport, being a rural community, likely faces a shortage of primary care physicians compared to urban areas. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced frequency of check-ups, and potentially, a delay in the diagnosis and management of hypertension. The availability of specialists, such as cardiologists, is also crucial, and their proximity and accessibility directly impact the quality of care for patients with complex hypertension cases.

Assessing the practices themselves requires examining their approach to hypertension management. This includes protocols for blood pressure monitoring, the use of evidence-based guidelines for medication selection and dosage adjustments, and patient education programs. Practices that proactively identify and address hypertension risk factors, such as obesity, smoking, and lack of physical activity, are likely to achieve better patient outcomes. The presence of registered nurses or medical assistants trained in hypertension management, who can provide support and education, is another key indicator of a practice's commitment to comprehensive care.

Telemedicine has the potential to significantly improve access to care in rural areas like Stephensport. Practices that have adopted telemedicine platforms for virtual consultations, remote monitoring of blood pressure, and medication management are better positioned to serve a wider patient population. Telemedicine can reduce the need for in-person visits, making it easier for patients to adhere to their treatment plans, especially those with mobility issues or transportation challenges. The availability of remote blood pressure monitoring devices, coupled with telemedicine capabilities, can empower patients to actively participate in their own care.

The often-overlooked connection between mental health and hypertension necessitates an examination of the mental health resources available to patients in Stephensport. Stress and anxiety can significantly impact blood pressure, and addressing these issues is crucial for effective hypertension management. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through in-house counselors or referrals to mental health professionals, demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care. The availability of support groups, educational materials, and resources for managing stress and anxiety further enhances the quality of care.

Identifying standout practices within Stephensport requires a nuanced approach. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, utilize evidence-based guidelines, embrace technology, and integrate mental health services are likely to be top performers. This analysis would consider factors such as patient satisfaction scores, the percentage of patients achieving blood pressure control, and the practice's commitment to ongoing quality improvement. Practices with a strong emphasis on preventative care, including lifestyle modifications and patient education, would also be recognized.

The ‘Hypertension Score’ for Stephensport, therefore, is not a single number but a composite assessment. It reflects the challenges posed by the physician shortage, the potential benefits of telemedicine, and the importance of integrated mental health resources. The score would be higher for practices with a strong focus on patient education, proactive risk factor management, and a commitment to utilizing technology to improve access to care. The score would be lower for practices lacking these key elements.

The overall picture suggests that Stephensport faces challenges in providing comprehensive hypertension care. The limited number of primary care physicians, coupled with the potential for limited access to specialists, necessitates innovative solutions. The adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and a strong emphasis on patient education are critical for improving outcomes.

This analysis, while insightful, is limited by the availability of publicly accessible data. A more comprehensive assessment would require access to detailed practice-level information, patient outcomes data, and a deeper understanding of the local healthcare landscape. Such an in-depth analysis would be crucial for identifying areas for improvement and for developing strategies to enhance hypertension management in Stephensport.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Stephensport, including the locations of primary care practices, specialist availability, and the distribution of at-risk populations, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping tools that can help visualize healthcare data, identify areas of need, and inform decision-making. Explore the potential of CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities in Stephensport and to visualize the geographic distribution of healthcare resources within the 40170 ZIP code.