42171, Smiths Grove, Kentucky Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 42171, Smiths Grove, Kentucky is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.00 percent of the residents in 42171 has some form of health insurance. 40.73 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.89 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 42171 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,726 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 42171. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 930 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,392 health care providers accessible to residents in 42171, Smiths Grove, Kentucky.

Smiths Grove, Kentucky, ZIP code 42171, presents a unique landscape for primary care, particularly concerning hypertension management. Analyzing the available data, a 'Hypertension Score' can be constructed, providing insights into the quality and accessibility of care for residents. This analysis will consider factors like physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, culminating in a comprehensive assessment.

The foundation of any hypertension management program is the availability of primary care physicians. In Smiths Grove, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. Accurate data on this ratio is essential. Publicly available sources, such as the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or local health departments, should be consulted to determine the exact number of primary care physicians actively serving the population of 42171. A lower ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, could negatively impact the Hypertension Score. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility and potentially better outcomes.

Beyond sheer numbers, the distribution of physicians within the ZIP code is also crucial. Are the primary care providers clustered in one area, leaving other parts of Smiths Grove underserved? This geographical disparity can affect the Hypertension Score, as residents in underserved areas may face greater challenges in accessing timely and consistent care. The location of practices relative to the population distribution, including consideration of transportation options, becomes a key consideration.

The characteristics of the primary care practices themselves significantly influence the Hypertension Score. Do practices accept a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, ensuring access for all residents? Are practices equipped with modern diagnostic tools, such as ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) devices, which are essential for accurate hypertension diagnosis and management? The availability of these tools and services will positively impact the score.

Furthermore, the practices’ approach to patient education and preventative care plays a vital role. Do they offer comprehensive patient education materials on lifestyle modifications, such as diet and exercise, which are crucial for managing hypertension? Do they proactively screen patients for hypertension and provide regular follow-up appointments? Practices that prioritize these aspects will contribute significantly to a higher Hypertension Score.

Identifying standout practices within Smiths Grove is crucial. These practices often demonstrate best practices in hypertension management. They might have implemented patient-centered medical home models, emphasizing care coordination and patient engagement. They may have dedicated staff members, such as nurses or medical assistants, specifically trained in hypertension management. These practices would likely have superior patient outcomes, contributing to a higher Hypertension Score for the area.

The adoption of telemedicine is another critical factor. Telemedicine offers significant advantages in hypertension management, particularly in rural areas like Smiths Grove. Telehealth consultations can provide convenient access to care, reducing the need for travel and improving patient adherence to treatment plans. Practices that offer virtual visits for medication management, blood pressure monitoring, and patient education will contribute positively to the Hypertension Score.

The integration of mental health resources is increasingly recognized as essential for managing chronic conditions like hypertension. Stress and anxiety can significantly impact blood pressure, and addressing these issues is crucial for overall health. Practices that collaborate with mental health professionals, either through in-house services or referrals, will demonstrate a more holistic approach to patient care, improving the Hypertension Score. The availability of mental health support services, such as counseling or support groups, within the community also plays a role.

Evaluating the data on mental health resources in Smiths Grove is essential. Are there readily accessible mental health providers? Are there community-based programs that address stress management or other mental health concerns? The availability and accessibility of these resources will influence the overall Hypertension Score.

In conclusion, the Hypertension Score for doctors in ZIP code 42171 and primary care availability in Smiths Grove is a complex metric. It is influenced by a multitude of factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. A comprehensive assessment requires detailed data collection and analysis, considering the specific characteristics of the healthcare landscape in this rural community. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the critical elements that contribute to the quality and accessibility of hypertension care in Smiths Grove.

For a visual representation of this data, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to resources, explore the potential of CartoChrome maps. These maps can transform complex data into actionable insights, allowing for a more informed understanding of the healthcare landscape in Smiths Grove.