41524, Fedscreek, Kentucky Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 41524, Fedscreek, Kentucky is 96 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.02 percent of the residents in 41524 has some form of health insurance. 80.08 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 14.94 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 41524 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 37 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 14 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 41524. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 41 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,845 health care providers accessible to residents in 41524, Fedscreek, Kentucky.

**Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 41524 and Primary Care Availability in Fedscreek**

The challenge of managing hypertension, a pervasive health concern, necessitates a comprehensive evaluation of healthcare resources within a defined geographic area. This analysis focuses on ZIP Code 41524, encompassing the Fedscreek community, to assess the availability and quality of primary care services, particularly concerning hypertension management. We will examine physician-to-patient ratios, highlight exemplary practices, explore telemedicine adoption, and evaluate the integration of mental health resources, all crucial elements in providing effective care. This analysis aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape in this region.

The foundation of effective hypertension management rests upon the availability of primary care physicians. The physician-to-patient ratio within 41524 is a critical metric. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of physicians relative to the population, can create significant barriers to care. Patients may face longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative screenings, and difficulty establishing a consistent relationship with a primary care provider. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests a more accessible healthcare system, potentially leading to better outcomes. Data from the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure, combined with population estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau, will be essential to determine the physician-to-patient ratio. This ratio will serve as a foundational element in our overall "Hypertension Score" assessment.

Beyond the simple physician count, the quality of care provided by existing practices is paramount. Identifying standout practices requires a multi-faceted approach. We must consider factors like patient satisfaction scores, the adoption of evidence-based guidelines for hypertension management (e.g., the American Heart Association/American College of Cardiology guidelines), and the utilization of electronic health records (EHRs). Practices employing EHRs often demonstrate improved efficiency in managing patient data, facilitating medication reconciliation, and tracking blood pressure readings. Furthermore, we will investigate the presence of certified diabetes educators or registered dietitians within practices, as these professionals play a crucial role in patient education and lifestyle modification, key components of hypertension control.

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool for expanding access to care, particularly in rural communities like Fedscreek. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices within 41524 is a crucial factor in our assessment. Practices utilizing telemedicine platforms can offer virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and medication management, thereby overcoming geographical barriers and improving patient convenience. The "Hypertension Score" will give significant weight to practices actively utilizing telemedicine, particularly those offering comprehensive virtual care options. The availability of reliable internet connectivity within the community is also a critical factor in the successful implementation of telemedicine.

The link between mental health and hypertension is increasingly recognized. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure levels and adherence to treatment plans. Therefore, the integration of mental health resources within primary care practices is essential. We will assess the availability of mental health services, such as on-site therapists or partnerships with mental health providers, within the primary care setting. Practices that offer integrated mental health services are likely to provide more holistic care, leading to improved patient outcomes. The "Hypertension Score" will incorporate the presence and accessibility of mental health resources.

The availability of specialized services, such as cardiology and nephrology, also influences the overall quality of hypertension management. While primary care physicians are the first point of contact for most patients, access to specialists is critical for those with complex cases or complications. We will assess the proximity of specialists to 41524 and the ease with which patients can access these services. This includes evaluating referral pathways and the availability of transportation options for patients who may have difficulty traveling.

To calculate the "Hypertension Score," we will assign weighted values to each of the factors discussed above. The physician-to-patient ratio will contribute a significant portion of the score, reflecting the fundamental importance of access to care. The adoption of evidence-based guidelines, the use of EHRs, and patient satisfaction scores will be weighted heavily, reflecting the importance of quality of care. Telemedicine adoption and the integration of mental health resources will also receive substantial weight, recognizing their impact on patient outcomes and access to care. The proximity and accessibility of specialists will also contribute to the overall score.

The "Hypertension Score" will provide a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare landscape in 41524, specifically concerning hypertension management. This score will be a valuable tool for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers. Patients can use the score to identify practices that offer the best care. Healthcare providers can use the score to identify areas for improvement. Policymakers can use the score to allocate resources and develop strategies to improve healthcare access and quality.

The final "Hypertension Score" will offer a nuanced understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in 41524. This will empower patients to make informed decisions about their care and will provide a roadmap for improving healthcare access and quality in the Fedscreek community. The analysis will not only identify the challenges but also highlight the practices and providers who are excelling in hypertension management.

For a dynamic and interactive visualization of the healthcare landscape in 41524, including the location of primary care practices, specialists, and other relevant data, explore the power of CartoChrome maps.