42349, Horse Branch, Kentucky Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 42349, Horse Branch, Kentucky is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 99.18 percent of the residents in 42349 has some form of health insurance. 79.46 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 40.00 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 42349 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 411 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 42349. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 349 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 618 health care providers accessible to residents in 42349, Horse Branch, Kentucky.

The analysis below assesses the quality of hypertension care and primary care accessibility in Horse Branch, Kentucky (ZIP Code 42349). It focuses on key indicators, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources, culminating in a Hypertension Score ranking. This evaluation aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape within this specific area.

The foundation of any strong healthcare system rests on a robust physician-to-patient ratio. In Horse Branch, this ratio is a crucial indicator. Access to primary care physicians is often the first line of defense against hypertension. A low ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, can lead to delayed diagnoses, less frequent monitoring, and ultimately, poorer management of the condition. Conversely, a high ratio suggests better access, potentially leading to improved patient outcomes. Data analysis would be required to determine the exact ratio in 42349, but this information is vital for understanding the overall health of the community.

The characteristics of primary care practices in Horse Branch significantly impact hypertension care. We need to assess whether these practices offer comprehensive services, including regular blood pressure screenings, lifestyle counseling, and medication management. Are there established protocols for hypertension treatment, adhering to the latest guidelines? Do practices have certified diabetes educators or registered dietitians on staff to support lifestyle modifications, a critical component of hypertension management? The availability of these resources directly influences the quality of care patients receive.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and medication refills can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas. Telemedicine can reduce the need for frequent in-person visits, saving patients time and travel costs. Practices that have embraced telemedicine technologies are better positioned to provide consistent and convenient care, which is particularly beneficial for patients managing chronic conditions like hypertension. Evaluating the degree of telemedicine integration within Horse Branch practices is essential.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to hypertension management. Stress and anxiety can elevate blood pressure, and patients with these conditions may struggle to adhere to treatment plans. The availability of mental health services, such as counseling and psychiatric care, within or in close proximity to primary care practices, is crucial. Integrated care models, where mental health professionals collaborate with primary care physicians, can lead to improved outcomes for patients with both hypertension and mental health concerns. The proximity and accessibility of these resources are vital components of a comprehensive hypertension care strategy.

To formulate a Hypertension Score, each of these factors must be carefully weighted and assessed. The physician-to-patient ratio provides a baseline for access. The presence of comprehensive practice services, including lifestyle counseling and medication management, contributes to the quality of care. Telemedicine adoption enhances accessibility and convenience. Finally, the availability of mental health resources supports the overall well-being of patients.

A scoring system could assign points based on performance in each area. For example, a high physician-to-patient ratio might earn a higher score, as would practices with integrated mental health services. Practices with robust telemedicine programs would also receive higher scores. The final Hypertension Score would then reflect the overall quality and accessibility of hypertension care in Horse Branch.

Standout practices within the 42349 ZIP code, if any, would be identified based on their exceptional performance across these key indicators. These practices might demonstrate a commitment to innovative care models, such as patient-centered medical homes, or have a proven track record of achieving positive patient outcomes. Their practices could serve as a model for other providers in the area.

The data used to generate the Hypertension Score would ideally come from multiple sources. Publicly available data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), state health departments, and professional organizations could provide information on physician-to-patient ratios and practice characteristics. Patient surveys and interviews could offer insights into patient experiences and access to care.

The analysis would conclude with a ranking of providers, offering a clear understanding of the healthcare landscape in Horse Branch. This ranking would provide valuable information for both patients seeking care and healthcare providers looking to improve their services. The Hypertension Score would be a dynamic tool, allowing for ongoing monitoring and evaluation of hypertension care in the community.

Ultimately, the goal is to create a healthier community. By assessing the quality and accessibility of hypertension care, we can identify areas for improvement and promote better outcomes for patients. The Hypertension Score is a step toward achieving this goal.

For a visual representation of this data and a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Horse Branch, Kentucky, explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive mapping tools that can bring this data to life, allowing you to visualize physician locations, practice characteristics, and other relevant information.