40504, Lexington, Kentucky Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 40504, Lexington, Kentucky is 95 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.92 percent of the residents in 40504 has some form of health insurance. 37.19 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.24 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 40504 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,277 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 121 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 40504. An estimate of 17 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,979 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 27,531 health care providers accessible to residents in 40504, Lexington, Kentucky.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Lexington, KY (40504)

This analysis delves into the landscape of hypertension management within the 40504 ZIP code of Lexington, Kentucky, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care, a critical factor in controlling this prevalent condition. We will assess the resources available to patients, including physician-to-patient ratios, notable practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health support, all contributing to a "Hypertension Score" reflecting the overall efficacy of care. This score, while not a single numerical value, represents a qualitative assessment based on the factors discussed.

The 40504 ZIP code encompasses a significant portion of central Lexington, including residential areas and commercial districts. The prevalence of hypertension, like in many urban environments, is likely influenced by factors such as lifestyle, diet, and access to healthcare. Effective management requires readily available primary care physicians (PCPs) who can provide regular check-ups, prescribe medication, and offer lifestyle counseling.

One key metric impacting the Hypertension Score is the physician-to-patient ratio. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment initiation. Data regarding the precise physician-to-patient ratio within 40504 is crucial. Publicly available data from sources like the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure, combined with population estimates, can provide an initial assessment. Further refinement would involve analyzing the number of actively practicing PCPs within the ZIP code and their patient panel sizes. A favorable ratio, with ample access to PCPs, would positively influence the score.

Identifying standout practices is essential. These practices often demonstrate best practices in hypertension management. Factors to consider include the utilization of evidence-based guidelines, patient education programs, and the implementation of systems for regular blood pressure monitoring. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives and demonstrate improved patient outcomes, such as lower blood pressure readings and reduced cardiovascular events, deserve recognition. Investigating the adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) and their integration with patient portals is also crucial. EHRs facilitate efficient data management, medication reconciliation, and communication between providers and patients. Patient portals empower patients to access their health information, track their progress, and communicate with their care teams.

Telemedicine adoption plays a significant role in improving access to care, especially for patients with chronic conditions like hypertension. Telemedicine allows patients to remotely consult with their physicians, monitor their blood pressure at home, and receive medication refills. The availability of telemedicine services, particularly for follow-up appointments and medication management, can significantly improve patient adherence to treatment plans and reduce the burden on the healthcare system. Practices actively utilizing telemedicine platforms would contribute positively to the Hypertension Score. The type of telemedicine platform used is also important, as platforms that offer secure video conferencing, remote monitoring capabilities, and integration with EHRs are more effective.

The integration of mental health resources is another critical component of comprehensive hypertension management. Stress and anxiety can significantly elevate blood pressure. Therefore, addressing mental health concerns is essential for achieving optimal blood pressure control. Practices that offer on-site mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. The availability of mental health support can significantly improve patient outcomes and contribute positively to the Hypertension Score. Furthermore, the integration of mental health services within the care plan can improve patient adherence to medication and lifestyle changes.

Assessing the availability of resources beyond direct medical care is also important. This includes access to affordable medications, healthy food options, and opportunities for physical activity. Pharmacies within the 40504 ZIP code should be examined to assess their accessibility, medication costs, and the availability of medication counseling services. The presence of grocery stores offering healthy food choices and community resources promoting physical activity, such as walking trails and fitness programs, can support lifestyle modifications, which are crucial in hypertension management.

The quality of care also depends on the patient's ability to understand and adhere to their treatment plan. Practices that offer patient education materials, such as brochures, videos, and online resources, can improve patient understanding of their condition and treatment options. The use of culturally sensitive materials and language assistance services can also improve patient engagement and outcomes.

The overall Hypertension Score for 40504 is therefore a composite assessment, weighing these various factors. It is a dynamic measure, subject to change as healthcare practices evolve and new resources become available. A high score reflects a healthcare environment that prioritizes accessible, comprehensive, and patient-centered hypertension management. A lower score indicates areas for improvement, such as increasing physician availability, expanding telemedicine services, and integrating mental health support.

The analysis would be strengthened by incorporating data on patient outcomes, such as blood pressure control rates and cardiovascular event rates. However, this information is often difficult to obtain due to privacy concerns and data limitations. Nevertheless, the factors discussed above provide a valuable framework for assessing the quality of hypertension management within the 40504 ZIP code.

For a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Lexington, including the location of primary care practices, pharmacies, and community resources, explore the power of visual data.