41840, Neon, Kentucky Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 41840, Neon, Kentucky is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.45 percent of the residents in 41840 has some form of health insurance. 58.03 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 46.90 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 41840 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 245 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 41840. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 103 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 338 health care providers accessible to residents in 41840, Neon, Kentucky.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Neon, KY (ZIP Code 41840)

Analyzing the landscape of hypertension care within ZIP Code 41840, encompassing the town of Neon, Kentucky, requires a multifaceted approach. We must consider not only the availability of primary care physicians but also the broader ecosystem of healthcare resources, including mental health support and the adoption of modern technologies like telemedicine. This analysis aims to provide a "Hypertension Score" assessment, ranking the local healthcare environment based on its capacity to effectively manage and treat hypertension within the community.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical starting point. A low ratio, meaning a scarcity of physicians relative to the population, often translates to limited access to care and longer wait times for appointments. In Neon, a rural community, the physician-to-patient ratio is likely a significant challenge. This scarcity could exacerbate existing health disparities, particularly for individuals with chronic conditions like hypertension, who require regular monitoring and medication management. The specific ratio for 41840 needs to be ascertained through direct data acquisition. Publicly available data, such as that from the US Department of Health & Human Services, can offer some insights.

Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of primary care physicians within the ZIP code is crucial. Are physicians concentrated in a single clinic, or are they dispersed throughout the community? The presence of a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) or a similar community health provider could significantly improve access, especially for underserved populations. These centers often offer sliding-scale fees and a broader range of services, including chronic disease management programs. The quality and accessibility of these services would factor heavily into the Hypertension Score.

Standout practices, if any exist, would be those demonstrating a commitment to comprehensive hypertension care. This includes not only prescribing medications but also providing patient education, lifestyle counseling, and regular blood pressure monitoring. Practices that employ certified diabetes educators or offer on-site blood pressure monitoring programs would be particularly noteworthy. Identifying these practices requires a deep dive into local healthcare providers, assessing their protocols, and patient outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption is a key factor in improving access to care, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving convenience. For hypertension management, telemedicine can be used for medication refills, blood pressure monitoring, and patient education. The Hypertension Score will reflect the extent to which local providers have embraced telemedicine and the types of services they offer remotely. This requires direct outreach to local practices to ascertain their telemedicine capabilities.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of hypertension management. Stress and anxiety can significantly elevate blood pressure, and untreated mental health conditions can make it more difficult for patients to adhere to treatment plans. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, within the community is therefore essential. Integrated care models, where mental health services are offered within primary care practices, are particularly beneficial. The Hypertension Score will consider the accessibility of mental health resources and the degree to which they are integrated with primary care.

The availability of specialized services, such as cardiology and nephrology, also impacts the overall quality of hypertension care. While primary care physicians are typically responsible for managing hypertension, patients with complex cases or complications may require referral to specialists. The proximity and accessibility of these specialists, as well as the efficiency of the referral process, will influence the Hypertension Score.

The local pharmacy landscape also plays a role. The availability of affordable medications, as well as the presence of pharmacists who can provide medication counseling and blood pressure monitoring, is important. The Hypertension Score will consider the accessibility and affordability of prescription medications within the community.

Data collection for this analysis would involve a multi-pronged approach. Direct contact with local healthcare providers, including primary care physicians, specialists, and pharmacies, is essential. Reviewing publicly available data, such as the US Department of Health & Human Services data, can provide information on physician-to-patient ratios and the availability of healthcare services. Patient surveys can provide valuable insights into the patient experience, including access to care, satisfaction with services, and adherence to treatment plans.

The final Hypertension Score would be a composite metric, incorporating all the factors discussed above. It would be a qualitative assessment, based on the available data, and would provide a snapshot of the healthcare environment in Neon, KY, with respect to hypertension management. The score would be presented in a clear and concise manner, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system.

The ultimate goal of this analysis is to inform and empower the community. By identifying areas where improvements are needed, we can work towards creating a healthier environment for residents of Neon, KY. This includes advocating for increased access to primary care, promoting the adoption of telemedicine, and ensuring the availability of mental health resources.

For a visual representation of this data and to explore the geographical distribution of healthcare resources in the 41840 ZIP code, consider utilizing the powerful mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps can visually depict physician locations, clinic locations, and other relevant data points, providing a valuable tool for understanding the local healthcare landscape.