42167, Tompkinsville, Kentucky Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 42167, Tompkinsville, Kentucky is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.81 percent of the residents in 42167 has some form of health insurance. 55.95 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 51.61 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 42167 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,972 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 42167. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,577 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 206 health care providers accessible to residents in 42167, Tompkinsville, Kentucky.

**Hypertension Score Analysis: Tompkinsville, KY (ZIP Code 42167)**

Analyzing the landscape of healthcare in Tompkinsville, Kentucky (ZIP Code 42167), requires a nuanced understanding of factors impacting hypertension management. This analysis aims to provide a "Hypertension Score" assessment, considering physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health resources. The score will reflect the overall capacity of the local healthcare system to effectively address and manage hypertension within the community.

The foundation of effective hypertension management rests on accessible primary care. In Tompkinsville, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A low ratio, signifying a scarcity of primary care physicians, can significantly hinder timely diagnosis, treatment initiation, and ongoing monitoring. This can lead to delayed care, increased complications, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes for individuals with hypertension. Assessing this ratio involves determining the number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the ZIP code and comparing it to the total population. Publicly available data from sources like the U.S. Census Bureau and the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure can be leveraged to estimate this ratio.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality and characteristics of primary care practices are crucial. Standout practices in Tompkinsville are those that demonstrate a commitment to evidence-based hypertension management. This includes adherence to clinical guidelines from organizations like the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology. Key indicators of quality include the implementation of standardized protocols for blood pressure measurement, the use of electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient data and facilitate medication management, and the provision of patient education materials. Practices that offer comprehensive care, including lifestyle counseling (dietary guidance, exercise recommendations) and medication management, are more likely to achieve positive patient outcomes. Evaluating practice quality requires examining patient reviews, assessing accreditation status, and reviewing publicly available data on quality metrics.

Telemedicine has the potential to significantly improve hypertension management, especially in rural areas like Tompkinsville. Telemedicine allows patients to connect with healthcare providers remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care, particularly for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. The adoption of telemedicine in Tompkinsville involves evaluating the availability of virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring programs, and the use of telehealth platforms for medication refills and follow-up appointments. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are likely to have a higher Hypertension Score, reflecting their commitment to patient convenience and improved access to care.

The interconnectedness of physical and mental health is undeniable, especially concerning hypertension. Stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure levels and adherence to treatment plans. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources in Tompkinsville is a crucial factor in the overall Hypertension Score. This includes the presence of mental health professionals (psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists), access to mental health services, and integration of mental health screening and treatment into primary care practices. Practices that collaborate with mental health providers and offer integrated care are better positioned to address the holistic needs of patients with hypertension, leading to improved outcomes.

The overall "Hypertension Score" for Tompkinsville, KY (42167) is a composite measure that considers these factors. It is not a single, definitive number but rather a qualitative assessment reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system. A higher score indicates a healthcare environment that is more conducive to effective hypertension management, while a lower score suggests areas where improvements are needed. This score should be considered a dynamic measure, subject to change as healthcare practices evolve and new resources become available.

The assessment of physician-to-patient ratios, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources will reveal the specific strengths and weaknesses within the Tompkinsville healthcare landscape. For example, if the physician-to-patient ratio is low, the score will be negatively impacted. Conversely, if practices demonstrate a strong commitment to evidence-based care and telemedicine integration, the score will be positively influenced. The presence of robust mental health resources will also contribute to a higher score.

The "Hypertension Score" also takes into account the availability of ancillary services. These include access to pharmacies, diagnostic testing facilities (e.g., for blood work), and specialized care providers (e.g., cardiologists). The proximity of these services and the ease of access are essential for timely diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing monitoring of hypertension.

Furthermore, the "Hypertension Score" should consider the socioeconomic characteristics of the community. Factors such as income levels, insurance coverage rates, and educational attainment can influence access to care and health outcomes. A community with a high prevalence of poverty or a lack of health insurance may face greater challenges in managing hypertension.

Ultimately, the "Hypertension Score" provides a framework for understanding the healthcare environment in Tompkinsville, KY (42167), and identifying areas for improvement. It can be used by healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members to advocate for better resources and services. It can also inform strategic planning efforts aimed at enhancing hypertension management and improving the overall health of the community.

The data used to generate this analysis is subject to change. As new healthcare providers enter the area, practices evolve, and telemedicine becomes more widespread, the "Hypertension Score" will need to be updated. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential to ensure that the score remains an accurate reflection of the local healthcare landscape.

Understanding the healthcare landscape in Tompkinsville, KY (42167), is vital for both residents and healthcare providers. If you're interested in visualizing this data and exploring the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping tools that allow you to explore healthcare data, identify underserved areas, and gain valuable insights into the local healthcare system.