41642, Ivel, Kentucky Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 41642, Ivel, Kentucky is 89 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 76.25 percent of the residents in 41642 has some form of health insurance. 36.75 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 47.21 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 41642 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 305 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 9 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 41642. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 87 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,167 health care providers accessible to residents in 41642, Ivel, Kentucky.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 41642 and Primary Care Availability in Ivel

Analyzing the healthcare landscape within ZIP Code 41642, encompassing the community of Ivel, Kentucky, requires a comprehensive understanding of factors impacting hypertension management. This analysis will assess the availability of primary care physicians, their capacity to manage hypertension, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, culminating in a 'Hypertension Score' assessment. The ultimate goal is to provide insights into the accessibility and quality of care for individuals in Ivel, particularly those managing or at risk of developing hypertension.

The foundation of effective hypertension management rests upon accessible and skilled primary care providers. In Ivel, assessing physician-to-patient ratios is crucial. This metric reveals the potential workload placed upon each physician and can indirectly indicate the availability of appointments and the time dedicated to each patient. A higher ratio, indicating more patients per physician, might suggest longer wait times and potentially less individualized care. Data collection regarding the number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the ZIP Code, coupled with the population size, is essential for calculating this ratio. Publicly available data from sources like the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure and the US Census Bureau would be primary resources.

Beyond the raw numbers, the specific capabilities of the primary care practices within 41642 are vital. Are these practices equipped with the necessary tools for hypertension management? This includes access to diagnostic equipment like ambulatory blood pressure monitors (ABPMs), which provide a more accurate assessment of blood pressure fluctuations than single-point readings. Furthermore, the implementation of electronic health records (EHRs) is critical. EHRs facilitate efficient data tracking, medication management, and communication between healthcare providers, improving the overall quality of care. Practices employing certified clinical medical assistants (CCMAs) or registered nurses (RNs) who can provide patient education and support also contribute to a higher quality of care.

Identifying standout practices within the area necessitates a deeper dive into their operational models and patient outcomes. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, such as those promoted by the American Heart Association or the National Committee for Quality Assurance, often demonstrate a commitment to providing evidence-based care. Patient satisfaction surveys, though subjective, offer valuable insights into the patient experience. Practices with consistently positive feedback regarding communication, access to care, and the effectiveness of treatment plans should be recognized. This requires a review of patient reviews and practice websites.

The adoption of telemedicine has emerged as a crucial factor in expanding access to care, particularly in rural areas like Ivel. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, medication management, and remote monitoring of blood pressure. Practices actively utilizing telemedicine platforms can potentially reach a wider patient base and provide more frequent check-ins, which is particularly beneficial for individuals managing hypertension. The availability of reliable internet access within the community is a critical factor in the success of telemedicine initiatives.

The intricate link between mental health and hypertension cannot be overlooked. Chronic stress and mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression, can significantly impact blood pressure levels. Therefore, the integration of mental health resources within primary care practices is essential. This might involve on-site therapists, partnerships with mental health providers, or the availability of mental health screening tools. Practices that recognize the importance of addressing both physical and mental well-being are better positioned to provide holistic care and improve patient outcomes.

Creating a ‘Hypertension Score’ for the doctors in 41642 requires a weighted assessment of the factors discussed. The physician-to-patient ratio will be a key component, with a lower ratio contributing to a higher score. The availability of diagnostic tools, the implementation of EHRs, and participation in quality improvement programs will also be heavily weighted. The adoption of telemedicine and the integration of mental health resources will further enhance the score. Each practice will be assessed based on these criteria, and a composite score will be generated.

The primary care availability in Ivel is a critical aspect of the overall score. The geographical distribution of practices, the availability of transportation for patients, and the hours of operation all influence accessibility. A community with limited access to primary care will inherently receive a lower overall score. The presence of a community health center or other safety-net providers can positively impact the score, particularly for underserved populations.

Ultimately, the ‘Hypertension Score’ is a dynamic measure that should be regularly updated. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, and practices are continually adapting to new technologies and best practices. Regular monitoring of key metrics, such as patient outcomes, telemedicine utilization, and the integration of mental health services, is essential for ensuring that the score reflects the current state of care in Ivel.

The analysis emphasizes the need for community-level initiatives to improve hypertension management. Public health campaigns promoting healthy lifestyles, such as regular exercise and a balanced diet, can complement the efforts of healthcare providers. Community-based programs that offer blood pressure screenings and educational workshops can also play a vital role in raising awareness and promoting early detection.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in 41642 and to identify potential gaps in care, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a geospatial representation of physician locations, practice characteristics, and other relevant data points. This visual tool allows for a more intuitive understanding of the accessibility and availability of care within the community.

**Take action!** Explore the healthcare landscape of 41642 and visualize the data with CartoChrome maps. Gain a deeper understanding of the resources available and the areas where improvements are needed.