42461, Uniontown, Kentucky Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 42461, Uniontown, Kentucky is 5 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.91 percent of the residents in 42461 has some form of health insurance. 47.05 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.86 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 42461 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 162 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 42461. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 189 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 392 health care providers accessible to residents in 42461, Uniontown, Kentucky.

The following analysis provides a Hypertension Score assessment for primary care physicians and related resources within the 42461 ZIP code, encompassing Uniontown, Kentucky. This score considers factors influencing hypertension management, including physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health support, culminating in a call to action for utilizing CartoChrome maps for detailed geographic insights.

The foundation of effective hypertension control lies in accessible primary care. In Uniontown, the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial element. While precise, real-time figures fluctuate, understanding the general availability of primary care physicians is paramount. A lower physician-to-patient ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally suggests better access to care. Conversely, a higher ratio may signal potential challenges in securing timely appointments and consistent follow-up, critical components of hypertension management. The availability of physicians accepting new patients is another key factor, as is the presence of nurse practitioners and physician assistants, who can also provide essential care.

Standout practices within the 42461 area are those that prioritize comprehensive hypertension management. This encompasses not only medication prescription and monitoring but also lifestyle counseling. Practices excelling in this area often incorporate registered dietitians, offering guidance on sodium reduction, the DASH diet, and weight management. They may also have dedicated nurses or medical assistants who focus on patient education regarding blood pressure monitoring techniques and medication adherence. Furthermore, practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, tracking patient outcomes and implementing evidence-based protocols, demonstrate a commitment to superior care. These practices often utilize electronic health records to facilitate data analysis and personalized treatment plans.

Telemedicine adoption plays a significant role in enhancing hypertension management, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to remotely monitor their blood pressure, communicate with their physicians, and receive medication refills, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. Practices embracing telemedicine often utilize secure video conferencing platforms for virtual consultations and remote patient monitoring devices, such as Bluetooth-enabled blood pressure cuffs. The availability of telemedicine services can significantly improve access to care for patients with mobility limitations, transportation challenges, or those residing in geographically remote locations. However, the effectiveness of telemedicine also depends on patient access to technology and reliable internet connectivity.

The intricate relationship between mental health and hypertension is undeniable. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can elevate blood pressure and hinder treatment adherence. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the community is a crucial aspect of hypertension management. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through on-site therapists or referral networks, demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care. Access to mental health professionals who understand the complexities of hypertension and its comorbidities can significantly improve patient outcomes. Furthermore, educational programs that address stress management techniques, such as mindfulness and relaxation exercises, can empower patients to proactively manage their mental well-being.

Evaluating the Hypertension Score for Uniontown, 42461, requires considering these factors holistically. While specific data on physician-to-patient ratios and practice-level performance is essential for a precise score, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources all contribute to a more favorable score. A high score would indicate a well-resourced environment with accessible primary care, proactive practices, robust telemedicine options, and integrated mental health support. Conversely, a lower score would suggest potential challenges in accessing care, limited resources, and a need for improvement in various areas.

The availability of resources and the quality of care can vary significantly even within a small geographic area. Factors such as insurance coverage, patient demographics, and individual practice preferences can all influence the patient experience. Regular assessments and ongoing monitoring are crucial to identify areas for improvement and ensure that patients receive the best possible care. This includes ongoing evaluation of physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine utilization rates, and the integration of mental health services.

To gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Uniontown and to visualize the distribution of resources, including primary care physicians, pharmacies, and mental health facilities, we recommend utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful platform for visualizing geographic data, enabling users to identify areas with high or low access to care, pinpoint potential gaps in service, and make informed decisions about healthcare planning and resource allocation. These maps can be customized to display various data layers, such as physician locations, patient demographics, and socioeconomic indicators, providing a detailed and interactive view of the community's healthcare needs.