42724, Cecilia, Kentucky Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 42724, Cecilia, Kentucky is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.77 percent of the residents in 42724 has some form of health insurance. 34.76 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.22 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 42724 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,171 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 42724. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 900 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,750 health care providers accessible to residents in 42724, Cecilia, Kentucky.

The analysis focuses on the health landscape within Cecilia, Kentucky (ZIP code 42724), specifically evaluating the availability of primary care physicians and their approaches to managing hypertension. This assessment is framed through a “Hypertension Score,” considering various factors that impact a patient's ability to receive timely and effective care. The score isn’t a single number but a holistic evaluation based on multiple metrics.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical starting point. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors for a larger population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment of hypertension. Conversely, a higher ratio generally suggests better access to care. In Cecilia, the ratio needs to be examined in comparison to both state and national averages. If the local ratio is significantly worse, it negatively impacts the Hypertension Score. This requires data collection from the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure and the U.S. Census Bureau to determine the actual physician count practicing within the zip code and the corresponding population.

The availability of primary care is paramount. Beyond the sheer number of doctors, the types of practices they operate within matters. Are there solo practitioners, or are they part of larger, multi-specialty groups? Larger groups often offer advantages like extended hours, access to specialized equipment, and a broader range of support staff. The Hypertension Score benefits from practices offering comprehensive services, including on-site labs for blood pressure monitoring and medication management.

Standout practices within Cecilia would be those demonstrating proactive hypertension management. This includes consistent blood pressure screenings, patient education programs, and the use of evidence-based guidelines for treatment. Practices employing electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient data and implement automated reminders for follow-up appointments and medication refills would receive a higher score. The presence of certified diabetes educators or registered dietitians within the practice adds significant value, as these professionals can provide crucial support for lifestyle modifications, a cornerstone of hypertension control.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor. The ability to offer virtual consultations, particularly for follow-up appointments and medication adjustments, can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in rural areas. Practices actively utilizing telehealth platforms for hypertension management would score favorably. This includes offering remote blood pressure monitoring devices and providing patients with the tools to track their own readings and share them with their physician.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to hypertension management. Stress and anxiety can significantly elevate blood pressure. Practices that recognize this connection and offer or have readily available referrals to mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, would receive a higher Hypertension Score. This also includes educating patients about the link between mental well-being and cardiovascular health.

The quality of patient education materials is another crucial element. Does the practice provide clear, concise, and culturally sensitive information about hypertension, its risk factors, and treatment options? Are educational materials available in multiple languages, if necessary? Practices that prioritize patient education and empowerment are better positioned to help patients actively manage their condition. This includes providing resources on healthy eating, exercise, and stress management techniques.

Medication management protocols also affect the score. Does the practice have clear procedures for prescribing, monitoring, and adjusting hypertension medications? Are they actively involved in helping patients navigate the complexities of medication adherence, including addressing side effects and providing financial assistance information? Practices that demonstrate a commitment to medication safety and efficacy will receive a higher score.

Insurance acceptance is also an important factor. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, enhance accessibility for a broader segment of the population. Practices that offer financial assistance programs or payment plans for patients struggling to afford care also improve the Hypertension Score.

The presence of support staff, such as nurses, medical assistants, and pharmacists, also influences the score. A well-staffed practice can provide more comprehensive care, including assisting with medication refills, answering patient questions, and coordinating referrals to specialists. The level of training and experience of the support staff also contributes to the overall quality of care.

Data collection and analysis are essential to accurately calculate the Hypertension Score. This involves gathering information from various sources, including physician directories, insurance providers, and patient surveys. The data should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape.

The Hypertension Score is not a static measure. It is a dynamic assessment that should be continuously evaluated and refined. As new technologies and treatment approaches emerge, the scoring criteria should be updated to reflect the latest advancements in hypertension management. The goal is to provide a comprehensive and accurate assessment of the quality of care available to patients in Cecilia.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Cecilia, including the location of primary care practices, their specialties, and other relevant information, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides a powerful platform for visualizing and analyzing geographic data, allowing you to explore the healthcare resources in your area in a dynamic and interactive way.