42459, Sturgis, Kentucky Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 42459, Sturgis, Kentucky is 10 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.44 percent of the residents in 42459 has some form of health insurance. 48.28 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.45 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 42459 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 680 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 42459. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 889 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 186 health care providers accessible to residents in 42459, Sturgis, Kentucky.

The analysis focuses on evaluating the quality of hypertension care within the ZIP code 42459, encompassing Sturgis, Kentucky, and its surrounding areas. This evaluation considers the availability of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial components of effective hypertension management. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare landscape and identify areas of strength and potential improvement.

The foundation of effective hypertension management lies in accessible and readily available primary care. Sturgis, like many rural communities, faces the challenge of physician shortages. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical first step. A high ratio, indicating a limited number of physicians to serve a large population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially compromised care quality. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests better access and potentially improved outcomes. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure can be utilized to estimate this ratio.

Beyond the raw numbers, it's essential to examine the distribution of primary care physicians within the 42459 ZIP code. Are the physicians concentrated in a single practice or hospital system, or are they distributed across multiple locations? A dispersed network can improve access, particularly for patients in outlying areas. Conversely, a concentration of providers might lead to logistical challenges for patients living further from the central location.

Several factors contribute to the success of hypertension management within a primary care setting. The utilization of evidence-based guidelines, such as those provided by the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology, is paramount. Practices that actively incorporate these guidelines into their protocols are more likely to achieve optimal blood pressure control rates. This involves regular blood pressure monitoring, lifestyle counseling, and the appropriate prescription of antihypertensive medications.

Identifying standout practices within the 42459 ZIP code requires an in-depth investigation. This involves evaluating their patient outcomes, their adherence to clinical guidelines, and their patient satisfaction levels. Publicly available data, such as the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) quality ratings, can provide some insights, though they may not always be comprehensive. Patient reviews and testimonials can also offer valuable perspectives on the quality of care.

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant tool for improving healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption can be a game-changer for hypertension management. Telemedicine allows physicians to remotely monitor patients' blood pressure, provide medication management, and offer lifestyle counseling. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are likely to demonstrate improved patient engagement and better blood pressure control. The extent of telemedicine adoption within the 42459 ZIP code needs to be assessed. This includes identifying the types of telemedicine services offered, the platforms used, and the number of patients participating.

The link between mental health and hypertension is well-established. Chronic stress and anxiety can elevate blood pressure and interfere with treatment adherence. Therefore, the integration of mental health resources into primary care is crucial. Practices that offer on-site mental health services, or that have established referral pathways to mental health professionals, are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients. The availability of these resources within the 42459 ZIP code should be evaluated. This includes assessing the number of mental health providers, the types of services offered, and the accessibility of these services for patients with hypertension.

The evaluation of hypertension care in Sturgis also needs to consider the availability of ancillary services. Access to diagnostic testing, such as ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM), is essential for accurate diagnosis and management. Access to pharmacy services is also critical, particularly for medication adherence. The proximity of pharmacies, the availability of medication counseling, and the affordability of medications all play a role in patient outcomes.

The affordability of healthcare services is another key consideration. High healthcare costs can create barriers to care, leading to patients delaying or foregoing necessary treatment. The acceptance of various insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, is a factor. The availability of financial assistance programs for low-income patients should also be assessed.

In conclusion, a comprehensive analysis of hypertension care in the 42459 ZIP code requires a multi-faceted approach. It involves assessing the physician-to-patient ratio, evaluating the quality of care provided by individual practices, examining the adoption of telemedicine, and determining the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to identify areas of strength and areas that need improvement, ultimately contributing to better health outcomes for the residents of Sturgis and the surrounding areas.

To gain a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of primary care physicians, the location of pharmacies, and the accessibility of healthcare resources, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a visual representation of the healthcare landscape, allowing for a more informed assessment of the local resources. Explore CartoChrome maps today to visualize the healthcare environment in the 42459 ZIP code and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.