42501, Somerset, Kentucky Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 42501, Somerset, Kentucky is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.17 percent of the residents in 42501 has some form of health insurance. 52.76 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.44 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 42501 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,992 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 42501. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,479 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,879 health care providers accessible to residents in 42501, Somerset, Kentucky.

The analysis focuses on hypertension management within the Somerset, Kentucky (ZIP Code 42501) area, evaluating the availability and quality of primary care services. This assessment considers several factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial for effective hypertension control.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Somerset is a critical starting point. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally translates to better access to care and potentially improved outcomes for patients with chronic conditions like hypertension. However, this is not a simple equation. The actual availability of appointments, the time spent with each patient, and the efficiency of the practice all contribute to the overall patient experience. Data from the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure and the U.S. Census Bureau provides the raw numbers. A review of these sources, coupled with local health surveys, reveals the current ratio, which then requires further refinement. The number of actively practicing primary care physicians within the 42501 ZIP code is essential. This number, divided by the population, provides a baseline.

Beyond the raw numbers, the types of primary care practices available are important. Are there large, multi-specialty groups, smaller independent practices, or a mix of both? Larger groups may offer a wider range of services and potentially better coordination of care, including access to specialists and ancillary services like lab work and diagnostic imaging. Independent practices might provide a more personalized approach, fostering stronger doctor-patient relationships. The analysis needs to consider the distribution of these practice types and their relative impact on hypertension management.

Identifying standout practices is crucial. This involves looking beyond basic metrics and considering factors that directly impact hypertension care. Do practices have dedicated hypertension management programs? Do they actively monitor patient blood pressure readings, provide patient education, and regularly adjust medication regimens as needed? Do they adhere to the latest clinical guidelines for hypertension treatment? Reviews from patients, surveys of physician practices, and data from health insurance providers can help identify these high-performing practices. The presence of certified diabetes educators (CDEs) or other specialized staff within a practice is a positive indicator, as they can provide valuable support and education to patients.

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly important, particularly for managing chronic conditions. Telemedicine allows patients to monitor their blood pressure at home, share readings with their doctor, and receive virtual consultations. This can be particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas or those with mobility issues. The analysis needs to assess the level of telemedicine adoption among primary care practices in Somerset. Do they offer virtual appointments? Do they utilize remote patient monitoring technologies? The availability of these technologies can significantly improve access to care and facilitate more frequent monitoring, which is critical for effective hypertension control.

The integration of mental health resources is another crucial factor. Hypertension and mental health are often intertwined. Stress and anxiety can elevate blood pressure, and managing both conditions simultaneously can improve outcomes. The analysis must assess the availability of mental health services within primary care practices or through referral networks. Do practices have on-site therapists or counselors? Do they have established referral pathways to mental health specialists? The presence of these resources can improve the holistic care of patients with hypertension, addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of the condition.

The overall quality of care is not solely determined by the presence of resources but also by how they are utilized. This involves assessing the practices' adherence to clinical guidelines, their patient satisfaction scores, and their outcomes data. The analysis should look at the practices' use of electronic health records (EHRs) and how they leverage data to improve patient care. Do they use EHRs to track blood pressure readings, medication adherence, and other relevant metrics? Do they actively engage patients in their care through patient portals or other communication tools? These factors contribute to a more proactive and patient-centered approach to hypertension management.

The availability of resources is one thing, but patient education and empowerment are equally important. Do practices provide patients with educational materials about hypertension, including information about lifestyle modifications, medication management, and self-monitoring techniques? Do they actively involve patients in their treatment decisions? Patient education and engagement are essential for long-term adherence to treatment plans and improved outcomes. The analysis needs to assess the practices' commitment to patient education and their efforts to empower patients to take an active role in their health.

The analysis should also consider the cost of care. The affordability of healthcare services is a significant barrier to access, particularly for individuals with chronic conditions. The analysis should consider the practices' acceptance of various insurance plans, the availability of financial assistance programs, and the overall cost of services. This information is essential for ensuring that patients can access the care they need without facing undue financial burdens.

The data gathered from the various sources, including physician directories, health insurance providers, patient reviews, and local health surveys, will provide a comprehensive view of the landscape of hypertension management in Somerset. This analysis will then be used to produce a 'Hypertension Score' for doctors in the 42501 ZIP code. This score, reflecting the quality and accessibility of primary care services, will be based on a weighted average of the factors discussed above.

For a visual representation of these findings, including practice locations, physician-to-patient ratios, and other relevant data, visit CartoChrome maps. Explore the interactive map to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Somerset and how it relates to hypertension management.