40165, Shepherdsville, Kentucky Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 40165, Shepherdsville, Kentucky is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.94 percent of the residents in 40165 has some form of health insurance. 37.28 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.05 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 40165 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 8,549 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 191 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 40165. An estimate of 10 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 6,018 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 20,510 health care providers accessible to residents in 40165, Shepherdsville, Kentucky.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Shepherdsville, KY (ZIP Code 40165)

Analyzing the overall health landscape in Shepherdsville, Kentucky (ZIP code 40165) requires a multifaceted approach, considering factors beyond just the presence of doctors. This analysis assesses primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of practices, telemedicine integration, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' assessment, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem.

The foundation of any healthy community is readily accessible primary care. In Shepherdsville, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical factor. Assessing this requires understanding the number of practicing PCPs within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas. Data from state licensing boards, combined with information from insurance providers, offers a starting point. However, simply counting doctors is insufficient. The crucial metric is the physician-to-patient ratio. A high ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially, compromised care. Conversely, a favorable ratio suggests better access and potentially improved health outcomes.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care practices significantly impacts the overall health score. This involves examining factors like patient satisfaction scores, typically gleaned from online reviews and surveys. Accreditation status, such as those awarded by organizations like the Joint Commission, also provides an indication of quality and adherence to established standards. Furthermore, the presence of specialized services within primary care practices, such as on-site laboratory testing, chronic disease management programs, and preventative care initiatives, contributes to a higher score.

Telemedicine adoption is another key element. The ability to access healthcare remotely, through video consultations, virtual check-ins, and remote monitoring, has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas like Shepherdsville. Telemedicine can improve access to care, reduce travel burdens, and enhance patient convenience. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering a range of virtual services, receive a higher score in this category. The ease of use of these platforms, the availability of technical support for patients, and the integration of telemedicine into the overall care workflow are all considered.

Mental health resources are a crucial, often overlooked, component of overall health. The availability of psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors within Shepherdsville and the surrounding areas is essential. The physician-to-patient ratio for mental health professionals is as important as it is for primary care physicians. The presence of mental health clinics, support groups, and partnerships with local hospitals and community organizations enhances the score. The integration of mental health services into primary care practices, through co-location or collaborative care models, is also highly beneficial.

Standout practices within the ZIP code contribute significantly to the overall health score. These are practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, utilize innovative technologies, and achieve positive health outcomes. Identifying these practices involves analyzing patient reviews, assessing the range of services offered, and evaluating their performance metrics. These practices often serve as models for others, contributing to a higher overall standard of care within the community. They may have specific programs for underserved populations or focus on preventative medicine.

Analyzing the data requires a degree of sophistication. Data from various sources, including the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), insurance provider directories, and patient review platforms, must be collated and analyzed. This data is then weighted, with each factor contributing to the overall health score. For example, physician-to-patient ratios might carry a higher weight than the availability of support groups, reflecting the fundamental importance of access to care.

The analysis also considers the demographics of Shepherdsville. Factors like age distribution, socioeconomic status, and the prevalence of chronic diseases influence the healthcare needs of the community. The overall health score is adjusted to reflect these factors, ensuring that the assessment accurately reflects the specific challenges and opportunities within the community. This data informs the weighting of various factors, allowing for a more nuanced and accurate assessment.

The quality of the local hospital system is another important consideration. The presence of a well-equipped hospital, offering a range of specialized services, significantly enhances the overall health score. Proximity to the hospital, the quality of care provided, and the hospital's integration with primary care practices are all assessed. The availability of emergency services and specialized units, such as cardiac care or stroke centers, also contribute to a higher score.

Further contributing to the overall health score is the availability of community resources. This includes access to pharmacies, community health centers, and social services organizations. The presence of these resources, and their integration with the healthcare system, enhances the ability of individuals to receive comprehensive care. The availability of transportation services, which can help patients access medical appointments, is also considered.

Finally, the overall health score is not static. It is a dynamic measure that changes over time, reflecting improvements or declines in the healthcare landscape. Regular updates and reassessments are necessary to track progress and identify areas for improvement. The score can be used to inform policy decisions, guide healthcare providers, and empower individuals to make informed choices about their health.

To visualize the complex data points and understand the spatial distribution of healthcare resources in Shepherdsville, consider exploring the power of interactive mapping. CartoChrome Maps provides a platform to visualize this data, offering a clear and accessible understanding of the healthcare landscape.