42071, Murray, Kentucky Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 42071, Murray, Kentucky is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.49 percent of the residents in 42071 has some form of health insurance. 40.11 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.94 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 42071 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,387 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 42071. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,957 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 791 health care providers accessible to residents in 42071, Murray, Kentucky.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Murray, KY (ZIP Code 42071)

This analysis provides an overall health score assessment for medical care access and availability within Murray, Kentucky, specifically focusing on the ZIP code 42071. We will evaluate various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, notable medical practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. This assessment aims to provide a comprehensive picture of the healthcare landscape in Murray, offering insights into its strengths and weaknesses.

The foundation of a healthy community lies in its access to primary care physicians. A crucial metric in this evaluation is the physician-to-patient ratio. While precise, real-time data can fluctuate, understanding the general trend is essential. In Murray, the ratio is likely influenced by the town's size and its role as a regional hub. A lower ratio, indicating more patients per physician, can potentially lead to longer wait times for appointments and increased pressure on existing healthcare providers. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests potentially greater access to care. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure, along with local hospital statistics, would be crucial in determining the precise ratio. The analysis would also consider the impact of nearby towns and their healthcare resources, as residents may seek care outside of Murray.

Several medical practices contribute to the healthcare ecosystem in Murray. Murray-Calloway County Hospital is a central component, offering a broad range of services, including primary care, specialty care, and emergency services. The quality of care at the hospital, as measured by patient satisfaction surveys, accreditation status, and outcomes data, significantly impacts the overall health score. Independent practices and clinics also play a vital role. Assessing the number of practicing physicians, the types of services offered (e.g., internal medicine, pediatrics, family practice), and their respective patient loads provides a more detailed view of primary care availability. The presence of specialized clinics, such as those focused on women's health or cardiology, further enhances the overall score, providing access to a wider range of medical services.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor in modern healthcare. The ability to consult with a physician remotely, especially for follow-up appointments, medication management, and minor ailments, can significantly improve access to care, particularly for those with mobility issues or residing in rural areas. The analysis would assess the extent to which local practices and the hospital have embraced telemedicine platforms. This includes examining the availability of virtual appointments, the types of services offered via telemedicine, and the ease of use of the platforms for both patients and providers. The presence of telehealth options can positively impact the overall health score by expanding access and convenience.

Mental health resources are a critical aspect of overall well-being, and their availability significantly influences the health score. The analysis will investigate the availability of mental health professionals in Murray, including psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors. This includes assessing the number of mental health providers, their specialties, and their accessibility (e.g., accepting new patients, offering evening or weekend appointments). The presence of mental health clinics, support groups, and partnerships with local organizations further enhances the score. The availability of crisis intervention services and access to psychiatric medication management are also essential components. Understanding the community's awareness of and access to these resources is vital for a comprehensive health assessment.

Beyond direct medical care, other factors influence the health score. The prevalence of chronic diseases, such as diabetes and heart disease, and the availability of preventative care programs, such as screenings and vaccinations, are important. Community health initiatives, such as those promoting healthy lifestyles and addressing social determinants of health (e.g., food security, housing stability), also contribute to the overall health of the community. These programs can indirectly improve access to care and reduce the burden of disease.

The overall health score for Murray, KY (ZIP Code 42071) will be a composite measure reflecting the factors discussed above. The score will be an estimate based on available data and research. It will represent a snapshot of the healthcare landscape at a given point in time. Regular updates are necessary to reflect changes in physician availability, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources.

The strengths of Murray's healthcare system may include the presence of a regional hospital, a diverse range of medical practices, and potentially, a growing interest in telemedicine. The challenges may include the physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of specialized care, and the accessibility of mental health services. Addressing these challenges requires ongoing efforts from healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government.

In conclusion, the overall health score for Murray, KY (ZIP Code 42071) reflects a dynamic healthcare environment. While the community benefits from the presence of a hospital and various medical practices, the physician-to-patient ratio and the accessibility of mental health resources require ongoing monitoring and improvement. The adoption of telemedicine offers a promising avenue for enhancing access to care.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Murray and the surrounding areas, including the location of medical facilities, the distribution of healthcare professionals, and the demographics of the population, we recommend exploring the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. These maps offer valuable insights into healthcare access and availability, helping you visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the community's health needs.