40037, Loretto, Kentucky Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 40037, Loretto, Kentucky is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.83 percent of the residents in 40037 has some form of health insurance. 42.09 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.13 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 40037 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 704 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 8 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 40037. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 405 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,374 health care providers accessible to residents in 40037, Loretto, Kentucky.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Loretto, Kentucky (ZIP Code 40037)

This analysis provides an overall health score assessment for the healthcare landscape within ZIP code 40037 (Loretto, Kentucky), focusing on the availability and quality of primary care services. It considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The evaluation aims to offer a comprehensive understanding of the health environment in Loretto.

The foundation of any health score is the availability of primary care physicians. Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio in a specific ZIP code requires access to real-time, granular data, often proprietary to healthcare analytics firms. However, we can make informed estimations. Kentucky, in general, faces challenges with physician shortages, particularly in rural areas. Given Loretto's rural character, it is likely that the physician-to-patient ratio is less favorable than in more urbanized regions. This means there might be fewer primary care physicians per capita, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and increased pressure on existing healthcare providers.

The presence of standout practices can significantly influence the overall health score. These practices are often characterized by their commitment to patient-centered care, advanced technology adoption, and a focus on preventative medicine. In Loretto, identifying such practices would involve researching local healthcare providers, assessing their patient reviews, and examining their service offerings. Key indicators of a strong practice include the use of electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient patient management, accreditation by recognized healthcare organizations, and a demonstrated commitment to continuous quality improvement. Furthermore, practices that offer extended hours or weekend appointments can improve access to care, especially for individuals with demanding work schedules.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important in healthcare, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine can help bridge geographical barriers and expand access to care by enabling virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online prescription refills. The degree of telemedicine integration in Loretto's primary care practices would be a significant factor in the health score. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can offer greater convenience and flexibility to patients, improving overall access to care. This includes the availability of virtual appointments for routine check-ups, follow-up consultations, and medication management. The ease of access to these services is a crucial factor in the health score.

Mental health resources are a critical component of overall health. The availability of mental health services within Loretto and the surrounding areas is essential for assessing the health score. This includes access to psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors. The presence of mental health support services within primary care practices, such as integrated behavioral health specialists, can improve access to mental healthcare. Additionally, the availability of support groups, crisis intervention services, and mental health education programs contributes to a more comprehensive and supportive healthcare environment. The proximity to mental health facilities and the availability of telehealth mental health services are also important considerations.

The overall health score for Loretto (ZIP code 40037) is therefore a composite measure. It is influenced by the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality and services offered by primary care practices, the extent of telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. While a precise score requires detailed data, a preliminary assessment suggests that Loretto, being a rural area, likely faces challenges related to physician shortages and access to specialized services. The health score can be improved by attracting more physicians, promoting the adoption of telemedicine, and expanding mental health services.

To gain a more detailed understanding of the healthcare landscape in Loretto and the surrounding areas, consider exploring interactive maps and data visualizations. CartoChrome offers a powerful platform for visualizing healthcare data, enabling users to analyze physician distribution, access to care, and other health-related factors. By using CartoChrome, you can gain a more comprehensive and data-driven perspective on the health environment in Loretto and identify areas for improvement.