42459, Sturgis, Kentucky Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 42459, Sturgis, Kentucky is 12 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.44 percent of the residents in 42459 has some form of health insurance. 48.28 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.45 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 42459 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 680 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 42459. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 889 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 186 health care providers accessible to residents in 42459, Sturgis, Kentucky.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Sturgis, KY (ZIP Code 42459)

Evaluating the overall health landscape in Sturgis, Kentucky (ZIP Code 42459) requires a comprehensive analysis of several key factors. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The aim is to provide an “Overall Health Score” assessment, reflecting the community’s access to and quality of healthcare services.

The cornerstone of any healthy community is readily available primary care. Assessing the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) actively practicing within the 42459 ZIP code is the first step. Publicly available data, such as the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) data or state medical board registries, can provide this information. The next critical metric is the physician-to-patient ratio. This ratio indicates the number of residents served by each PCP. A lower ratio generally suggests better access to care, allowing physicians more time per patient and potentially leading to improved health outcomes. This ratio should be compared to both the state and national averages to gauge how Sturgis compares. A higher-than-average ratio might indicate a shortage of PCPs, potentially resulting in longer wait times for appointments and reduced access to preventative care.

Identifying standout medical practices in Sturgis is crucial. These practices often serve as benchmarks for quality and innovation. Factors to consider include the practice's patient satisfaction scores, the range of services offered (e.g., chronic disease management, preventative screenings), and the adoption of advanced technologies. Practices that are Patient-Centered Medical Homes (PCMH) certified, for example, are often recognized for their commitment to coordinated, patient-focused care. Investigating online reviews, testimonials, and local community feedback can further illuminate the reputation and quality of care provided by these practices.

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant factor in healthcare accessibility, particularly in rural areas like Sturgis. The adoption of telemedicine services by local providers can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations, transportation challenges, or those residing in remote areas. Assessing the availability of telehealth appointments for primary care, specialist consultations, and mental health services is essential. Practices that offer telehealth options can potentially improve patient convenience, reduce healthcare costs, and ultimately enhance the overall health score.

Mental health is an integral component of overall well-being. Assessing the availability of mental health resources within the 42459 ZIP code is paramount. This includes the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors. Evaluating the number of mental health professionals per capita, similar to the physician-to-patient ratio, provides insights into access. Furthermore, it's important to determine whether mental health services are integrated within primary care practices. Integrated care models, where mental health professionals collaborate with PCPs, have been shown to improve patient outcomes and reduce the stigma associated with mental health treatment. The availability of support groups, crisis intervention services, and community mental health centers should also be considered.

The assessment of these factors allows for a holistic "Overall Health Score" for Sturgis, KY. The score can be determined by assigning weighted values to each category: physician-to-patient ratio, quality of medical practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. Each category is scored based on its performance relative to benchmarks and averages. The weighted scores are then combined to generate an overall health score. This score provides a snapshot of the community's healthcare landscape, highlighting strengths and areas for improvement.

For instance, a high physician-to-patient ratio, limited telemedicine adoption, and a scarcity of mental health resources would negatively impact the overall score. Conversely, a low physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of high-quality medical practices, and robust mental health services would contribute to a higher score. The "Overall Health Score" is not a static number; it's a dynamic reflection of the healthcare environment. Regular reassessments, incorporating new data and changes in healthcare practices, are necessary to maintain an accurate picture.

Understanding the local health landscape is essential for community members, healthcare providers, and policymakers. This analysis provides a framework for evaluating the health of a community and identifying areas where resources and improvements are needed. It also highlights the importance of data-driven decision-making in healthcare. By regularly assessing the availability of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of medical practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, communities can work towards improving the overall health and well-being of their residents.

The findings of this analysis can be used to inform strategic planning, resource allocation, and policy development. For example, if the physician-to-patient ratio is high, the community might consider initiatives to attract more PCPs or support the expansion of existing practices. If telemedicine adoption is low, efforts could be made to educate providers and patients about the benefits of telehealth. Addressing the identified gaps and challenges can lead to a healthier and more resilient community.

This comprehensive assessment provides a foundation for understanding the healthcare landscape in Sturgis, KY. The "Overall Health Score" serves as a valuable tool for measuring progress, identifying needs, and guiding future healthcare initiatives.

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