40374, Sharpsburg, Kentucky Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 40374, Sharpsburg, Kentucky is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.49 percent of the residents in 40374 has some form of health insurance. 56.28 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 48.82 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 40374 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 692 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 40374. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 363 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,742 health care providers accessible to residents in 40374, Sharpsburg, Kentucky.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Sharpsburg, KY (ZIP Code 40374)

Sharpsburg, Kentucky, a small community nestled in the heart of Bourbon County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when assessing hypertension management within its primary care landscape. Evaluating the quality of care available, particularly regarding hypertension, necessitates a multi-faceted approach. This analysis, a 'Hypertension Score,' attempts to rank the available resources for managing hypertension in Sharpsburg, considering physician availability, practice characteristics, and the integration of modern healthcare solutions. This analysis is specifically for the ZIP Code 40374.

The cornerstone of effective hypertension management is access to a primary care physician. The physician-to-patient ratio in Sharpsburg, and indeed the broader Bourbon County area, is a critical factor. While precise figures fluctuate, the availability of primary care physicians is often a concern in rural communities. A lower physician-to-patient ratio, meaning more patients per doctor, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially less individualized care. This can significantly impact a patient’s ability to adhere to treatment plans and monitor their blood pressure effectively. The 'Hypertension Score' will consider the estimated physician-to-patient ratio as a key metric.

Beyond sheer numbers, the characteristics of the available primary care practices are crucial. Are practices accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate patient schedules? Do they have a dedicated focus on preventative care and chronic disease management, including hypertension? Practices that proactively engage in patient education, provide regular blood pressure screenings, and offer comprehensive management plans, including medication and lifestyle recommendations, will score higher. The 'Hypertension Score' will evaluate these aspects, including the availability of on-site laboratory services for quick blood work analysis.

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly important, especially in rural areas where geographical barriers can hinder access to care. Practices that embrace telemedicine, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring of blood pressure, can significantly improve patient convenience and adherence. This is particularly relevant for hypertension patients who may need frequent check-ups to adjust medication dosages or address lifestyle modifications. The 'Hypertension Score' will assess the extent to which local practices utilize telemedicine platforms for patient care and follow-up.

The connection between mental health and hypertension is well-established. Chronic stress and anxiety can contribute to elevated blood pressure, and addressing mental health concerns is often a vital part of comprehensive hypertension management. The 'Hypertension Score' will consider the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through referrals. Practices that have established relationships with local mental health professionals or offer integrated mental health services will receive a higher score. This includes assessing the availability of counseling, support groups, and access to psychiatric care.

Standout practices within Sharpsburg will be identified based on their commitment to patient-centered care and their integration of best practices in hypertension management. These practices might be recognized for their proactive approach to patient education, their use of innovative technologies, or their strong patient satisfaction ratings. The 'Hypertension Score' will highlight these practices, recognizing their contributions to the health of the community. This includes evaluating the availability of patient portals for easy access to medical records and communication with the care team.

The 'Hypertension Score' will also consider the availability of resources for lifestyle modifications, such as dietary counseling and exercise programs. Practices that partner with local nutritionists, fitness centers, or offer educational materials on healthy eating and exercise will receive a higher score. This is critical because lifestyle changes are often a cornerstone of effective hypertension management, and patient education is key.

The 'Hypertension Score' will be a dynamic measure, reflecting the evolving healthcare landscape in Sharpsburg. It will be updated regularly to reflect changes in physician availability, practice characteristics, and the adoption of new technologies and treatment approaches. This allows the community to stay informed about the quality of care available and make informed decisions about their healthcare.

The limitations of this analysis must be acknowledged. Data availability can be a challenge, and the 'Hypertension Score' will rely on publicly available information, practice websites, and potentially, surveys of local healthcare providers. The subjective nature of some criteria, such as patient satisfaction, may also introduce some degree of variability. However, the goal is to provide a comprehensive and informative assessment of hypertension management resources in Sharpsburg.

Ultimately, the 'Hypertension Score' aims to empower patients in Sharpsburg to make informed decisions about their healthcare. By providing a clear and concise overview of the available resources, this analysis can help individuals identify practices that align with their needs and preferences. The score serves as a valuable tool for navigating the healthcare system and ensuring that patients receive the best possible care for managing their hypertension.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Sharpsburg, including the location of primary care practices and the availability of resources, explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that can visualize healthcare data, helping you understand the geographic distribution of services and make informed decisions about your health.