42784, Upton, Kentucky Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 42784, Upton, Kentucky is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.29 percent of the residents in 42784 has some form of health insurance. 49.49 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.88 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 42784 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 764 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 42784. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 361 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 214 health care providers accessible to residents in 42784, Upton, Kentucky.

The analysis of hypertension management within ZIP code 42784, encompassing Upton, Kentucky, reveals a complex interplay of factors impacting patient care. This assessment delves into the availability of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial elements in effectively addressing hypertension.

The foundation of hypertension management lies in accessible primary care. Upton, a small community, likely faces challenges in this regard. A limited number of primary care physicians translates to a potentially high patient-to-physician ratio. This ratio directly influences appointment availability, the time a physician can dedicate to each patient, and the overall quality of care. A higher ratio can lead to shorter appointment times, potentially hindering comprehensive assessments and patient education, which are vital for managing hypertension.

Identifying the exact physician-to-patient ratio requires a detailed investigation. Publicly available data from the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure, combined with census data for the 42784 ZIP code, would be necessary to calculate this ratio accurately. This data would provide a baseline understanding of the community's access to primary care.

Beyond the raw numbers, the operational efficiency of primary care practices is crucial. Standout practices, those demonstrating exemplary hypertension management, often employ a multi-faceted approach. This includes proactive patient outreach, regular blood pressure monitoring, and robust patient education programs. They might utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient progress, identify at-risk individuals, and tailor treatment plans. These practices may also have dedicated staff, such as nurses or medical assistants, specifically trained in hypertension management.

Telemedicine offers a promising avenue to improve access to care, particularly in rural areas like Upton. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in 42784 is a key factor. Telemedicine allows physicians to conduct virtual consultations, monitor blood pressure remotely, and provide medication management. This can be especially beneficial for patients with mobility issues or those living a significant distance from the clinic. The availability of reliable internet access within the community is, however, a critical prerequisite for successful telemedicine implementation.

Hypertension is often intertwined with mental health. Stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure levels and adherence to treatment plans. The integration of mental health resources into primary care is therefore essential. This might involve on-site therapists, referrals to mental health specialists, or the use of validated screening tools to identify patients needing mental health support. The availability and accessibility of these resources within the Upton community are critical considerations.

The effectiveness of hypertension management also hinges on patient education and lifestyle modifications. Primary care practices should provide patients with information on healthy eating, regular exercise, and smoking cessation. They might offer group classes, individual counseling sessions, or access to online resources. A comprehensive approach to patient education empowers individuals to actively participate in managing their condition.

Furthermore, the use of medication adherence programs is vital. Many patients struggle to take their medications as prescribed. Practices can implement strategies such as medication reminders, refill assistance, and regular follow-up appointments to improve adherence rates. This proactive approach can significantly improve blood pressure control and reduce the risk of complications.

Evaluating the specific practices within 42784 requires a deep dive. This would involve gathering information on the services offered, the staffing levels, the technology used, and the patient outcomes. This would require direct contact with the practices, review of publicly available information, and potentially patient surveys.

The availability of specialists, such as cardiologists and nephrologists, is also a factor. While primary care physicians are at the forefront of hypertension management, patients with complex cases may require referral to specialists. The proximity and accessibility of these specialists influence the overall quality of care.

The local hospital's involvement in hypertension management can also be significant. Hospitals often offer educational programs, screening events, and access to specialized care. The collaboration between primary care practices and the local hospital can create a more integrated and comprehensive approach to hypertension management.

Finally, the community's socioeconomic factors play a role. Poverty, lack of access to healthy food, and limited transportation options can all impact a patient's ability to manage their hypertension effectively. Addressing these social determinants of health is crucial for achieving optimal outcomes.

In conclusion, assessing hypertension management in Upton, KY (42784) is a multifaceted endeavor. It requires a detailed examination of primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, mental health resource integration, and patient education efforts. By understanding these factors, healthcare providers and community stakeholders can work together to improve hypertension control and promote better health outcomes for the residents of Upton.

To visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, the location of practices, and other relevant data points within the 42784 ZIP code, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful way to analyze spatial data and gain valuable insights into healthcare access and utilization.