40171, Union Star, Kentucky Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 40171, Union Star, Kentucky is 15 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 40171 has some form of health insurance. 100.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 22.65 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 40171 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 40171. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 84 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 246 health care providers accessible to residents in 40171, Union Star, Kentucky.

**Overall Health Score Analysis: Union Star, Kentucky (ZIP Code 40171)**

This analysis assesses the overall health landscape within the Union Star, Kentucky (ZIP code 40171) area, focusing on primary care physician availability and related healthcare resources. We'll examine the physician-to-patient ratios, identify potential standout practices, evaluate telemedicine adoption rates, and explore the accessibility of mental health services. This comprehensive overview aims to provide a clear picture of the healthcare environment and its strengths and weaknesses.

The cornerstone of any healthy community is access to primary care physicians. In Union Star, understanding the physician-to-patient ratio is critical. This ratio, representing the number of residents per primary care physician, provides a direct measure of access. A higher ratio suggests potential challenges in securing timely appointments and receiving consistent care. Data from the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure, combined with population estimates for the 40171 ZIP code, allows us to estimate this ratio. While specific numbers fluctuate, the rural nature of Union Star often presents a lower physician density compared to urban areas. This can translate to longer wait times and potential difficulties in finding a new primary care provider.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality and reputation of existing practices are paramount. Identifying standout practices involves evaluating factors like patient reviews, the range of services offered, and the adoption of modern technologies. Practices that consistently receive positive feedback, offer comprehensive care (including preventative screenings and chronic disease management), and embrace technological advancements tend to be highly regarded. This includes practices with on-site lab services, electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate seamless information sharing, and a commitment to patient education. The presence of board-certified physicians and a diverse staff can also contribute to a practice's overall excellence.

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant force in healthcare, particularly in rural areas where access to in-person care can be limited. Assessing telemedicine adoption rates within Union Star is crucial. This involves examining whether local practices offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and online patient portals. Practices that actively utilize telemedicine can expand their reach, provide convenient access to care for patients with mobility issues or transportation challenges, and improve the overall efficiency of the healthcare system. The availability of telemedicine also impacts the ability of patients to manage chronic conditions and receive timely follow-up care.

Mental health resources are an essential component of overall well-being. Evaluating the availability of mental health services in Union Star requires a thorough assessment. This includes identifying the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed therapists, and counselors in the area. It also involves determining whether these professionals accept insurance, offer sliding-scale fees, and provide specialized services (e.g., child and adolescent therapy, substance abuse counseling). The proximity of mental health facilities, the availability of crisis intervention services, and the integration of mental health care within primary care practices are all important factors. The presence of support groups and community-based mental health programs also contributes to the overall accessibility of mental health services.

The healthcare landscape in Union Star, like many rural communities, faces unique challenges. The limited number of physicians can create access barriers. The distance to specialized care facilities may be a concern for some patients. The adoption of telemedicine and the integration of mental health services are key to improving the health outcomes.

The overall health score for Union Star is influenced by a complex interplay of factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of existing practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources all contribute to the overall assessment. While specific data points fluctuate, the rural nature of the area suggests that healthcare access can be a challenge. The availability of primary care physicians and specialists is a key determinant of the health score. The presence of well-regarded practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health services can positively influence the overall health score.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment in Union Star and the surrounding areas, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that visualize healthcare data, allowing you to explore physician locations, practice characteristics, and other relevant information. This tool can be invaluable for residents, healthcare professionals, and policymakers seeking to understand and improve the health of the community.