40144, Harned, Kentucky Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 40144, Harned, Kentucky is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.47 percent of the residents in 40144 has some form of health insurance. 36.75 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.97 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 40144 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 158 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 40144. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 254 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 186 health care providers accessible to residents in 40144, Harned, Kentucky.

The overall health landscape within ZIP code 40144, encompassing the town of Harned, Kentucky, presents a complex picture. Assessing the health of a community requires a multifaceted approach, considering not just the presence of medical professionals but also access, quality of care, and available resources. This analysis aims to provide an 'Overall Health Score' assessment for the region, focusing on the availability of primary care physicians and the broader health environment.

One of the fundamental metrics in evaluating community health is the physician-to-patient ratio. This ratio directly impacts access to care. A lower ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potential delays in diagnosis, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes. While precise, up-to-the-minute physician-to-patient ratios are dynamic and constantly shifting, publicly available data and local healthcare reports suggest that Harned, and by extension ZIP code 40144, might face challenges in this area. The rural nature of the area, combined with potential physician shortages, could contribute to a less favorable ratio compared to more urban centers. This necessitates a careful consideration of the existing primary care resources.

The availability of primary care is the cornerstone of a healthy community. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are the first point of contact for most healthcare needs, providing preventive care, managing chronic conditions, and coordinating referrals to specialists. The presence and accessibility of PCPs in Harned are critical. Assessing this involves evaluating the number of active practices, the acceptance of new patients, and the types of services offered. Are there enough PCPs to meet the community's needs? Are appointments readily available, or are patients facing extended wait times? These are key questions when evaluating the health score. Furthermore, the geographic distribution of these practices within the ZIP code is crucial. Are practices clustered in one area, potentially leaving other parts of the community underserved?

Identifying standout practices within the area can provide valuable insights. Practices that excel in patient care, utilize innovative technologies, or demonstrate a commitment to community health can serve as models for others. This might involve looking at patient satisfaction scores, the adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) for improved care coordination, and the implementation of patient-centered care models. Examining these practices' approaches can highlight best practices and identify areas where other providers can improve.

The adoption of telemedicine is another crucial factor in assessing the health landscape. Telemedicine, the use of technology to provide healthcare remotely, can significantly improve access to care, especially in rural areas where geographical barriers can be significant. It allows patients to consult with physicians from the comfort of their homes, reducing the need for travel and potentially lowering healthcare costs. The extent to which practices in ZIP code 40144 have embraced telemedicine, including video consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, is a key indicator of their commitment to patient access and modern healthcare delivery.

Mental health resources are an essential component of overall health. Mental health conditions are prevalent and can significantly impact physical health and overall well-being. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is a critical factor in assessing the health of a community. Does the area have adequate mental health services? Are there support groups or community-based programs available? The integration of mental health services into primary care practices is also a positive indicator, as it can facilitate early detection and treatment.

The quality of healthcare is also crucial. This encompasses the training and experience of healthcare providers, the availability of advanced medical equipment and technology, and the adherence to evidence-based practices. Assessing quality involves evaluating factors such as accreditation of hospitals and clinics, patient outcomes, and the implementation of quality improvement initiatives. While a comprehensive assessment of quality requires detailed data, examining these factors provides a more complete picture of the health landscape.

The socio-economic factors within the community play a significant role. Poverty, lack of access to healthy food, and limited educational opportunities can all negatively impact health outcomes. These factors are often intertwined with healthcare access and quality. Understanding the socio-economic context of the community is essential for a comprehensive assessment of its health.

Finally, the health score is not a static number. It is a dynamic assessment that should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. The arrival of new physicians, the expansion of existing practices, the adoption of new technologies, and changes in community demographics can all impact the health score. Ongoing monitoring and analysis are essential for ensuring that the community's healthcare needs are being met.

The assessment of the health of a community is a complex undertaking. It requires gathering data from various sources, analyzing that data, and drawing conclusions based on the evidence. The ‘Overall Health Score’ is a snapshot of the current state of the healthcare system, but the goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the health landscape in ZIP code 40144, focusing on primary care availability and the broader health environment. The score can be used to identify areas of strength and weakness and to inform strategies for improving the health of the community.

For a more detailed and visually informative understanding of the health landscape in ZIP code 40144 and surrounding areas, including physician locations, practice details, and access to resources, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps.