40403, Berea, Kentucky Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 40403, Berea, Kentucky is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.06 percent of the residents in 40403 has some form of health insurance. 47.83 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.35 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 40403 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,785 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 40403. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,410 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,056 health care providers accessible to residents in 40403, Berea, Kentucky.

**Hypertension Score Analysis: Berea, KY (ZIP Code 40403)**

Analyzing hypertension management within Berea, Kentucky (ZIP code 40403) requires a multi-faceted approach, considering not only the availability of primary care physicians but also the quality of care provided, the utilization of technology, and the integration of mental health resources. A comprehensive "Hypertension Score" for this area would incorporate these elements to provide a nuanced understanding of the community's ability to effectively manage this prevalent health condition.

The foundation of effective hypertension management lies in accessible primary care. Berea, as a relatively small city, likely faces challenges common to rural areas regarding physician-to-patient ratios. While precise figures fluctuate, the ratio is a critical indicator. A lower physician-to-patient ratio, meaning fewer physicians serving a larger population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially, less comprehensive care. Conversely, a higher ratio indicates greater access, potentially leading to improved patient outcomes. Data on the current physician-to-patient ratio in 40403 is essential for determining a baseline score. This data needs to be compared to state and national averages to assess the relative accessibility of primary care in Berea.

Beyond mere numbers, the quality of primary care practices is paramount. A high-performing "Hypertension Score" would reflect the existence of practices that demonstrate a commitment to evidence-based hypertension management. This includes the consistent use of standardized protocols for blood pressure measurement, diagnosis, and treatment. It also involves the regular monitoring of patient outcomes, such as blood pressure control rates and the incidence of hypertension-related complications. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives and adhere to national guidelines, such as those from the American Heart Association or the American College of Cardiology, would receive higher scores.

Standout practices in Berea would be those that excel in these areas. Identifying these practices requires a review of publicly available data, such as patient satisfaction surveys, and potentially, direct observation of practices. Practices that offer extended hours, same-day appointments for urgent needs, and proactive outreach to patients (e.g., reminders for medication refills and follow-up appointments) would be considered exemplary. Furthermore, practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient education, providing resources and support to help patients understand their condition and manage their lifestyle factors, such as diet and exercise, would be highly valued.

The adoption of telemedicine is another crucial factor in the "Hypertension Score." Telemedicine offers significant advantages in managing chronic conditions like hypertension, particularly in rural areas where access to care can be limited. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and online patient portals would score higher. These technologies can improve patient convenience, increase the frequency of monitoring, and facilitate timely interventions. The degree to which telemedicine is integrated into the workflow of primary care practices in 40403, and the patient satisfaction with these services, would be key considerations.

The integration of mental health resources is a frequently overlooked, yet critical, component of hypertension management. Stress and mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression, can significantly impact blood pressure. Practices that recognize this connection and offer or facilitate access to mental health services would be viewed favorably. This could include on-site counseling, referrals to mental health professionals, or the use of integrated behavioral health programs. The availability of these resources, and the degree to which they are utilized by patients with hypertension, would influence the overall score.

The "Hypertension Score" should also consider the demographics of the population served by the primary care practices in 40403. Factors such as age, race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status can influence the prevalence and management of hypertension. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to addressing health disparities and providing culturally competent care would be recognized. This includes tailoring treatment plans to the specific needs of different patient populations and ensuring that all patients have equal access to high-quality care.

The analysis must also consider the availability of resources beyond the primary care setting. This includes access to pharmacies, specialists (e.g., cardiologists, nephrologists), and community health programs. The proximity of these resources, and the ease with which patients can access them, would impact the overall score. The presence of local support groups, such as those focused on lifestyle changes or medication adherence, would also be a positive factor.

Finally, the "Hypertension Score" is not a static measure. It should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape, such as the introduction of new technologies, the implementation of new guidelines, and the evolving needs of the community. The score should be used as a tool to identify areas for improvement and to drive positive change in hypertension management within Berea.

To further explore the healthcare landscape in Berea, KY (ZIP code 40403) and visualize the distribution of resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, practice characteristics, and other relevant data, allowing for a deeper understanding of the community's access to care and the effectiveness of hypertension management strategies.