40376, Slade, Kentucky Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 40376, Slade, Kentucky is 13 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 40376 has some form of health insurance. 100.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.69 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 40376 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 40376. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 26 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 358 health care providers accessible to residents in 40376, Slade, Kentucky.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 40376 and Primary Care Availability in Slade

Understanding the landscape of healthcare, particularly concerning a prevalent condition like hypertension, requires a nuanced approach. This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care within ZIP code 40376, encompassing the town of Slade, Kentucky, with a specific focus on factors relevant to managing hypertension. We will assess physician-to-patient ratios, identify standout practices, evaluate telemedicine adoption, and examine the availability of mental health resources, all within the context of hypertension care.

The initial challenge lies in quantifying the physician-to-patient ratio. Precise, real-time data on the exact number of practicing primary care physicians within a specific ZIP code can be difficult to obtain. Publicly available sources, such as the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, provide broader county-level data. However, we can infer a general understanding. Slade, being a small community within Powell County, likely faces challenges common to rural areas. These include a potentially lower density of primary care physicians compared to urban centers. This scarcity can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to specialized care, and an increased burden on existing providers. This scarcity is a key indicator for the community's 'Hypertension Score'.

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive into individual provider profiles. Online review platforms, patient testimonials, and information available through insurance networks can provide insights into the quality of care offered. We would look for practices that actively promote preventative care, offer comprehensive hypertension management protocols, and demonstrate a commitment to patient education. These practices often employ registered nurses or medical assistants specifically trained in hypertension management, providing regular blood pressure checks, medication management support, and lifestyle counseling. These practices would contribute positively to the 'Hypertension Score'.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The ability to access healthcare remotely, especially for chronic conditions like hypertension, can significantly improve patient outcomes. Telemedicine can facilitate regular check-ins, medication adjustments, and remote monitoring of blood pressure readings. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring programs, are likely to demonstrate a higher commitment to patient convenience and proactive hypertension management. This is a positive contributor to the 'Hypertension Score'.

The link between mental health and hypertension is well-established. Chronic stress and anxiety can contribute to elevated blood pressure. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the community is crucial. This includes access to therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups. Practices that integrate mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health providers are better equipped to provide holistic care for patients with hypertension. The presence and accessibility of these resources will positively influence the 'Hypertension Score'.

Evaluating specific practices requires a detailed review of their websites, service offerings, and patient reviews. We would look for evidence of:

* **Comprehensive Hypertension Management Protocols:** Do they have established protocols for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care for hypertension?
* **Patient Education:** Do they provide educational materials and resources to help patients understand their condition and manage their blood pressure?
* **Medication Management Support:** Do they offer assistance with medication adherence, including refills, reminders, and education about potential side effects?
* **Lifestyle Counseling:** Do they offer guidance on diet, exercise, and other lifestyle modifications to help patients control their blood pressure?
* **Telemedicine Capabilities:** Do they offer virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, or other telemedicine services?
* **Mental Health Integration:** Do they have established referral pathways to mental health providers or offer integrated mental health services?

The 'Hypertension Score' would be a composite measure, reflecting the availability of primary care physicians, the quality of care offered by local practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. A higher score would indicate a more favorable environment for managing hypertension. A lower score would highlight areas where improvements are needed.

For example, a practice that has a high patient-to-physician ratio, limited telemedicine options, and no mental health integration would likely receive a lower score. Conversely, a practice with a manageable patient load, robust telemedicine capabilities, and strong mental health partnerships would receive a higher score.

The ultimate goal is to provide a clear picture of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 40376, allowing residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare and empowering healthcare providers to identify areas for improvement. This analysis is not a static assessment; the healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. Regular updates and ongoing monitoring are crucial to ensure the information remains accurate and relevant.

Understanding the specific challenges and opportunities within Slade, Kentucky, is essential for improving the health of its residents. By identifying the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system, we can work towards creating a healthier community. The 'Hypertension Score' is a valuable tool for assessing the current state of hypertension care and for guiding future improvements.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Slade, Kentucky, and visualize the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps provide a powerful tool for visualizing data and identifying patterns, allowing you to make more informed decisions about your health and the health of your community.