42371, Rumsey, Kentucky Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 42371, Rumsey, Kentucky is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 42371 has some form of health insurance. 74.02 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 87.75 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 42371 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 42371. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 151 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 415 health care providers accessible to residents in 42371, Rumsey, Kentucky.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Rumsey, Kentucky (ZIP Code 42371)

Assessing the overall health landscape within Rumsey, Kentucky (ZIP code 42371) necessitates a multi-faceted approach, considering not just the presence of physicians but also the broader context of healthcare accessibility, quality, and supporting resources. This analysis will delve into the physician-to-patient ratio, examine standout practices, evaluate telemedicine adoption, and explore the availability of mental health resources, ultimately providing an "Overall Health Score" assessment.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a fundamental indicator of healthcare accessibility. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of physicians relative to the population, can lead to longer wait times, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially poorer health outcomes. Conversely, a high ratio suggests a more readily available medical workforce. Unfortunately, precise physician-to-patient ratio data for Rumsey specifically is often difficult to obtain due to data aggregation at broader county or regional levels. However, we can extrapolate based on available data for McLean County, where Rumsey is located. If McLean County mirrors the national trend, a shortage of primary care physicians is likely. This situation is exacerbated by the rural nature of the area, which often struggles to attract and retain healthcare professionals.

Identifying "standout practices" requires a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare providers. This includes assessing factors such as patient reviews, the range of services offered, the use of technology, and the practice's commitment to community health. While a comprehensive review of every practice is beyond the scope of this analysis, we can consider general characteristics. Practices demonstrating a commitment to patient-centered care, incorporating modern technology for appointment scheduling and communication, and actively participating in community health initiatives would likely be considered "standout." The presence of board-certified physicians in key specialties also contributes to a practice's strength. Without specific practice names to analyze, it is difficult to pinpoint "standout" practices.

Telemedicine adoption represents a crucial element of modern healthcare, particularly in rural areas where geographical barriers can hinder access to care. Telemedicine offers the potential to bridge the distance, allowing patients to consult with physicians remotely, receive prescriptions, and access specialist consultations. Assessing telemedicine adoption requires evaluating the availability of virtual appointments, the use of remote monitoring technologies, and the integration of telehealth platforms into existing practice workflows. In Rumsey, the level of telemedicine adoption is likely to be variable. Some practices, particularly those affiliated with larger healthcare systems, may have embraced telehealth more readily. Others, especially smaller, independent practices, may be slower to adopt these technologies due to financial constraints, technological limitations, or physician preferences.

The availability of mental health resources is another critical component of overall health. Mental health is often overlooked in rural areas, with limited access to psychiatrists, therapists, and mental health support services. Assessing the mental health landscape involves evaluating the presence of mental health professionals, the availability of counseling services, and the presence of support groups and community mental health programs. In Rumsey, the availability of mental health resources is likely to be a significant concern. Rural areas often face a shortage of mental health providers, limited access to specialized care, and a lack of awareness and destigmatization of mental health issues. This can lead to delayed treatment, poorer mental health outcomes, and increased risk of suicide.

Based on the factors discussed above, the "Overall Health Score" for Rumsey (ZIP code 42371) would likely be moderate to low. The potential physician shortage, the variability in telemedicine adoption, and the likely scarcity of mental health resources all contribute to this assessment. The absence of specific data on physician-to-patient ratios and practice details makes it difficult to provide a precise score, but the general trends suggest challenges in healthcare accessibility and resource availability. The rural nature of the area, coupled with potential socioeconomic factors, further complicates the healthcare landscape.

To improve the "Overall Health Score," several strategies are needed. Recruiting and retaining physicians, particularly primary care physicians and specialists, is paramount. This can be achieved through financial incentives, loan forgiveness programs, and creating a supportive practice environment. Expanding telemedicine services can help bridge geographical barriers and improve access to care. Investing in mental health resources, including increasing the number of mental health professionals, expanding access to counseling services, and promoting mental health awareness, is also crucial. Finally, promoting community health initiatives and fostering partnerships between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government can help address the social determinants of health and improve overall health outcomes.

For a more in-depth understanding of the healthcare landscape in Rumsey and surrounding areas, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive mapping tools that can visualize physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and other relevant data. This allows for a more comprehensive assessment of healthcare accessibility and resource distribution.