42716, Buffalo, Kentucky Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 42716, Buffalo, Kentucky is 8 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.79 percent of the residents in 42716 has some form of health insurance. 47.24 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.83 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 42716 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 277 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 42716. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 364 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,325 health care providers accessible to residents in 42716, Buffalo, Kentucky.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: 42716 Buffalo, Kentucky

Analyzing the landscape of hypertension management within the 42716 ZIP code, encompassing the town of Buffalo, Kentucky, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will assess the availability of primary care physicians, the utilization of telemedicine, the presence of mental health resources, and ultimately, provide a “Hypertension Score” reflecting the overall quality and accessibility of care for individuals managing this prevalent condition. The findings are crucial for understanding the current state of healthcare in Buffalo and identifying areas for improvement.

The foundation of effective hypertension management rests on accessible primary care. In Buffalo, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. Rural communities often grapple with physician shortages, making it challenging for residents to secure timely appointments and consistent care. The availability of primary care physicians directly impacts the ability to receive regular check-ups, medication management, and lifestyle counseling – all essential components of hypertension control. The current ratio needs specific data, but its impact is the most important factor.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care practices is paramount. Standout practices demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive hypertension management. This includes not only prescribing medication but also providing patient education on diet, exercise, and stress management. Practices with dedicated nurses or medical assistants trained in hypertension care, offering extended hours, and employing electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate data tracking and medication reconciliation are more likely to achieve positive patient outcomes. These practices often implement standardized protocols for blood pressure monitoring and follow-up appointments, ensuring consistent and proactive care.

Telemedicine adoption presents a significant opportunity to enhance hypertension management in Buffalo. Telehealth allows patients to remotely monitor their blood pressure, receive medication refills, and consult with their physicians without the need for in-person visits. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility issues, transportation challenges, or those residing in remote areas. The utilization of remote patient monitoring (RPM) devices, which transmit blood pressure readings directly to the physician, can provide valuable insights into a patient’s condition and facilitate timely interventions. The degree of telemedicine adoption by practices in 42716 is a key factor in the Hypertension Score.

The intricate connection between mental health and hypertension cannot be ignored. Chronic stress and anxiety can elevate blood pressure, making it more difficult to control. Access to mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is therefore essential for comprehensive hypertension care. Practices that integrate mental health services, either in-house or through referrals, are better equipped to address the psychological factors that contribute to uncontrolled hypertension. The availability of mental health support is a crucial component of a holistic approach to patient well-being.

Assessing the availability of these resources and services allows for a "Hypertension Score" to be assigned. This score is not a single number, but rather a composite evaluation based on several weighted factors. The physician-to-patient ratio carries significant weight, reflecting the fundamental accessibility of care. The presence of standout practices, with their emphasis on patient education, standardized protocols, and EHR utilization, also contributes significantly to the score. Telemedicine adoption, with its potential to improve access and convenience, is another crucial element. Finally, the integration of mental health resources is factored in, acknowledging the importance of addressing the psychological aspects of hypertension.

A high Hypertension Score indicates a healthcare environment that is well-equipped to manage hypertension effectively. This includes a sufficient number of primary care physicians, high-quality practices, robust telemedicine infrastructure, and readily available mental health support. Conversely, a low score suggests potential challenges in accessing and receiving adequate care, highlighting areas that require attention and improvement. This score serves as a tool for healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members to understand the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system.

The specific data points required to calculate a precise Hypertension Score for 42716 are not available in this analysis. However, the framework outlined provides a roadmap for a comprehensive evaluation. Gathering data on physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption rates, and evaluating the availability of mental health resources would enable the creation of a more accurate and actionable score.

The data needed to calculate the Hypertension Score could be visualized on a map. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful platform for visualizing healthcare data, allowing for the identification of areas with high and low scores. The ability to overlay data on a map would enable a more nuanced understanding of the geographic distribution of resources and the disparities in access to care. This visual representation would be invaluable for healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members seeking to improve hypertension management in Buffalo and other rural communities.

The creation of a detailed map would allow for the identification of potential areas for improvement. For example, if the map revealed a shortage of primary care physicians in a specific area, resources could be directed towards recruiting and retaining physicians in that location. Similarly, if the map showed low telemedicine adoption rates, initiatives could be implemented to encourage the use of telehealth services. The map would also help identify areas where mental health resources are lacking, allowing for the development of programs to address these gaps.

The ability to visualize healthcare data on a map empowers stakeholders to make informed decisions and implement targeted interventions. The ability to see the data spatially allows for a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape and the identification of areas that require attention.

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Buffalo, Kentucky, and to visualize the Hypertension Score and related data, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you visualize and analyze your healthcare data.