40831, Harlan, Kentucky Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 40831, Harlan, Kentucky is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.08 percent of the residents in 40831 has some form of health insurance. 68.97 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 31.66 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 40831 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,204 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 40831. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 824 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 290 health care providers accessible to residents in 40831, Harlan, Kentucky.

**Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 40831 and Primary Care Availability in Harlan, Kentucky**

The health landscape of Harlan, Kentucky, specifically focusing on ZIP code 40831, presents a unique challenge when considering hypertension management. This analysis delves into the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs), the quality of care provided, and the resources available to manage and treat hypertension, ultimately culminating in a "Hypertension Score" ranking. The score considers factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, innovative practices, and access to mental health support, crucial components for effective hypertension control.

Harlan County, and by extension ZIP code 40831, faces geographical and socioeconomic hurdles common in rural communities. These factors significantly impact healthcare access and outcomes. The terrain can make travel difficult, limiting patient access to care, especially for those with mobility issues or limited transportation. Furthermore, socioeconomic disparities can influence health behaviors, adherence to medication regimens, and access to healthy food options, all of which are critical in managing hypertension.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Harlan County is a key indicator of primary care availability. A low ratio, meaning a smaller number of physicians serving a larger population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially compromised quality of care. Data from various sources, including the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA), should be consulted to accurately determine the current physician-to-patient ratio within ZIP code 40831 and compare it to both state and national averages. A significantly higher ratio than the national average would negatively impact the Hypertension Score.

Standout practices within the area are crucial to improving the Hypertension Score. Identifying practices that demonstrate a commitment to hypertension management is vital. This includes those utilizing evidence-based guidelines for diagnosis and treatment, implementing patient education programs, and actively monitoring patient outcomes. Practices that have invested in electronic health records (EHRs) and utilize them effectively to track patient data, medication adherence, and blood pressure control are also strong contenders. These practices, if identified, would positively influence the overall score.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. Telemedicine offers a significant advantage in rural areas by bridging geographical barriers and improving access to care. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring, and medication management services, can improve the Hypertension Score. The ability to remotely monitor blood pressure readings, provide timely interventions, and offer educational resources through telehealth platforms can significantly improve patient outcomes.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in hypertension management, but they are crucial. Stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure levels and adherence to treatment plans. The availability of mental health services, including therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within the community is therefore a crucial component. Practices that integrate mental health screenings and referrals into their hypertension management protocols will contribute positively to the Hypertension Score. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health professionals is essential for holistic patient care.

The “Hypertension Score” for doctors in ZIP code 40831 would be determined by weighing the factors discussed above. The physician-to-patient ratio would be a significant negative influence if the ratio is high. The presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources would all contribute positively to the score. The weighting of each factor should be based on its relative importance in achieving optimal hypertension control.

For example, a practice that has a low physician-to-patient ratio, utilizes EHRs effectively, offers telemedicine services, and integrates mental health screenings would receive a high score. Conversely, a practice with a high physician-to-patient ratio, limited resources, and no telemedicine or mental health integration would receive a lower score. The score should be a dynamic measure, reflecting ongoing improvements in healthcare delivery and patient outcomes.

Data collection is paramount to creating an accurate Hypertension Score. This involves gathering information from various sources, including physician directories, healthcare provider websites, patient surveys, and public health data. The data should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape.

The final score would be a composite measure, reflecting the overall quality of hypertension care available within the ZIP code. It would be a valuable tool for patients seeking care, healthcare providers looking to improve their practices, and policymakers aiming to address healthcare disparities.

The analysis would then be used to create a ranked list of physicians in the area. This list would not only provide a score but also highlight the strengths and weaknesses of each practice, allowing patients to make informed decisions about their care. The rankings would be presented in a clear and concise format, with easy-to-understand metrics.

The analysis would also identify areas for improvement. By analyzing the strengths and weaknesses of each practice, the analysis would highlight areas where resources are lacking. This information can be used to advocate for increased funding for healthcare services, promote the adoption of best practices, and improve patient outcomes.

The ultimate goal of this analysis is to improve hypertension control in Harlan County. By providing a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare landscape, the analysis can empower patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers to work together to create a healthier community. The Hypertension Score is not just a ranking; it is a roadmap for improving healthcare access and quality in a rural area.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Harlan, including the locations of physicians, access to pharmacies, and other relevant data points, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome's mapping capabilities can help you visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in your community.