40914, Big Creek, Kentucky Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 40914, Big Creek, Kentucky is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.75 percent of the residents in 40914 has some form of health insurance. 85.19 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 13.35 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 40914 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 263 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 40914. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 114 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 943 health care providers accessible to residents in 40914, Big Creek, Kentucky.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Big Creek, KY (ZIP Code 40914)

Analyzing the overall health landscape within Big Creek, Kentucky, specifically focusing on ZIP code 40914, requires a multi-faceted approach. It necessitates an examination of primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. This comprehensive assessment will culminate in an ‘Overall Health Score’ reflecting the community's well-being and access to care.

The foundation of any health assessment lies in the availability of primary care physicians. Big Creek, like many rural communities, likely faces challenges in this area. A low physician-to-patient ratio is a significant indicator of potential healthcare access issues. A ratio significantly below the national average suggests that residents may encounter difficulties securing timely appointments, leading to delayed diagnoses and preventative care. This shortage can also strain existing medical professionals, potentially impacting the quality of care they can provide.

To accurately assess the physician-to-patient ratio in 40914, data collection from various sources is crucial. State medical boards, local hospitals, and community health centers are vital sources. The analysis should consider the number of active, licensed primary care physicians (including family medicine, internal medicine, and general practitioners) within the ZIP code and the estimated population. This data, when compared to national benchmarks, will reveal the extent of any existing shortages.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Identifying standout medical practices within the area is essential. This involves researching practices with positive patient reviews, accreditations from recognized healthcare organizations, and a demonstrated commitment to patient-centered care. Factors like extended hours, the availability of same-day appointments, and the integration of electronic health records (EHRs) contribute significantly to a practice's overall rating.

The presence of specialists in the area is another critical factor. While the focus is on primary care, the availability of specialists (cardiologists, endocrinologists, etc.) within a reasonable distance impacts the overall health score. The closer proximity to specialists, the better.

Telemedicine has emerged as a crucial tool for expanding healthcare access, especially in rural areas. Its adoption rate within 40914 is a significant indicator of the community's health score. Practices embracing telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, providing remote consultations, chronic disease management, and mental health services. The analysis should assess which practices offer telemedicine options, the types of services provided, and the technology used.

Mental health resources are an integral part of overall health. The analysis must evaluate the availability of mental health professionals (psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists) within the community. This includes the number of providers, their accessibility (appointment wait times), and the types of services offered (individual therapy, group therapy, medication management). The presence of community mental health centers, crisis intervention services, and support groups significantly enhances the community's mental health infrastructure.

The integration of mental health services with primary care is another critical factor. Co-location of mental health professionals within primary care practices facilitates seamless care coordination and reduces the stigma associated with seeking mental health treatment. The analysis should identify practices that prioritize this integrated approach.

The overall health score for 40914 will be a composite metric, reflecting the weighted average of these factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources will all contribute to the final score. A low physician-to-patient ratio, limited telemedicine options, and a scarcity of mental health resources would negatively impact the score. Conversely, a high physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of high-quality practices, widespread telemedicine adoption, and robust mental health services would elevate the score.

The analysis should also consider the socioeconomic factors influencing health outcomes. Poverty, lack of access to healthy food, and limited transportation options can exacerbate healthcare access challenges. These factors, while not directly reflected in the health score, should be acknowledged as crucial contextual elements.

The analysis should also consider the quality of the local hospital, if one exists. The presence of a well-equipped hospital with a range of services, including emergency care, is a significant asset to the community's health. The hospital's accreditation, patient satisfaction scores, and the range of specialties offered should be evaluated.

The health score should be presented in a clear and concise manner, utilizing a numerical scale or a qualitative rating system (e.g., excellent, good, fair, poor). The analysis should also include specific recommendations for improvement. These might include strategies to recruit more physicians, expand telemedicine services, increase mental health resources, and address socioeconomic barriers to healthcare access.

The analysis should also consider the presence of any community health initiatives or programs aimed at improving health outcomes. These might include wellness programs, chronic disease management programs, or health education campaigns. The effectiveness of these programs should be evaluated and incorporated into the overall assessment.

Finally, the analysis should be updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. This will ensure that the health score remains an accurate and relevant reflection of the community's well-being.

For a comprehensive visualization of the healthcare landscape in Big Creek, KY (ZIP Code 40914), including the location of medical practices, hospitals, and mental health facilities, consider using CartoChrome maps. Their interactive mapping platform allows for detailed exploration of healthcare resources and their accessibility.