42321, Beech Creek, Kentucky Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 42321, Beech Creek, Kentucky is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 42321 has some form of health insurance. 54.79 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.47 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 42321 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 111 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 42321. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 71 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 840 health care providers accessible to residents in 42321, Beech Creek, Kentucky.

This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of hypertension management resources and primary care accessibility in Beech Creek, Kentucky (ZIP Code 42321), focusing on factors relevant to patient care and outcomes. The assessment considers physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health support, culminating in a recommendation for visualizing these data using CartoChrome maps.

Beech Creek, a small community in Muhlenberg County, faces unique challenges regarding healthcare access, particularly concerning chronic conditions like hypertension. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical determinant of effective hypertension management. Regular check-ups, medication management, and lifestyle counseling are essential for controlling blood pressure and reducing the risk of cardiovascular events. The physician-to-patient ratio in this area is a key indicator of access. A lower ratio (fewer patients per physician) generally translates to better access and more individualized care. Conversely, a higher ratio may indicate longer wait times for appointments and potentially less comprehensive care. This analysis will strive to estimate this ratio based on available data, acknowledging that precise figures can fluctuate.

The quality of primary care practices significantly impacts hypertension management. Practices with a strong focus on preventive care, chronic disease management, and patient education are more likely to achieve positive outcomes. Assessing the presence of these elements involves evaluating factors such as: the availability of on-site diagnostic services (e.g., blood pressure monitoring, electrocardiograms), the use of electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient data management and care coordination, and the implementation of evidence-based guidelines for hypertension treatment. Practices that actively engage patients in their care through education and self-management programs are also more likely to be successful.

Telemedicine offers a valuable tool for enhancing access to care, especially in rural areas like Beech Creek. Telehealth consultations can facilitate medication management, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring of blood pressure. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in the area is a significant factor in improving hypertension control. Practices that utilize telehealth platforms can potentially reach a wider patient population, reduce travel burdens for patients, and provide more frequent monitoring. Assessing the extent of telemedicine integration involves evaluating the availability of virtual appointments, the use of remote monitoring devices, and the integration of telehealth data into EHR systems.

The connection between mental health and hypertension is increasingly recognized. Stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure levels and treatment adherence. Primary care practices that integrate mental health services into their care models are better equipped to address the holistic needs of patients with hypertension. This integration may involve on-site mental health professionals, referrals to mental health specialists, or the use of screening tools to identify patients at risk for mental health issues. The availability of these resources is a crucial component of comprehensive hypertension management.

Identifying standout practices within ZIP Code 42321 requires a multi-faceted approach. It involves evaluating the factors discussed above, including physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of care provided, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health services. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, evidence-based treatment, and innovative approaches to healthcare delivery are likely to achieve the best outcomes. While a definitive ranking is difficult without direct access to patient data and practice performance metrics, this analysis aims to highlight the key factors that differentiate high-performing practices.

The specific practices in Beech Creek and the surrounding area must be assessed individually. This includes researching the number of PCPs practicing within the ZIP code, the patient volume each physician handles, and the services offered. Publicly available resources, such as state medical board directories, insurance provider websites, and online physician review platforms, can provide valuable information. However, it is crucial to recognize that these resources may not always provide a complete or entirely accurate picture. Direct communication with the practices themselves may be necessary to gather comprehensive information.

The evaluation of telemedicine adoption requires a similar approach. Investigating practice websites, contacting the offices directly, and reviewing online patient testimonials can provide insights into the use of telehealth services. The extent to which these services are integrated into the overall care model, including the use of remote monitoring devices and the sharing of data with patients, is also critical. This assessment should determine if practices offer virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring programs, or other telehealth solutions.

Mental health resources are an essential component of hypertension management. Assessing the availability of these resources involves investigating whether practices have on-site mental health professionals, offer referrals to mental health specialists, or utilize screening tools to identify patients with mental health needs. This information may be available on practice websites, through direct inquiries, or from local health organizations. The integration of mental health services into the primary care setting can significantly improve patient outcomes.

To visualize and better understand the complex interplay of these factors, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps allow for the geographic representation of healthcare data, providing a visual understanding of physician distribution, practice locations, and resource availability. By mapping the locations of primary care practices, telemedicine providers, and mental health resources, you can identify areas with limited access and areas with a high concentration of resources. This visual representation can be invaluable for patients seeking care, healthcare providers planning services, and policymakers addressing healthcare disparities.

For a more comprehensive understanding of hypertension management resources in Beech Creek (ZIP Code 42321), we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a visual representation of the data discussed, aiding in the identification of areas with high and low access to care.