42635, Pine Knot, Kentucky Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 42635, Pine Knot, Kentucky is 6 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 71.30 percent of the residents in 42635 has some form of health insurance. 46.25 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 33.72 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 42635 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 997 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 42635. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 692 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 134 health care providers accessible to residents in 42635, Pine Knot, Kentucky.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Pine Knot, KY (ZIP Code 42635)

This analysis provides an overall health score assessment for the residents of Pine Knot, Kentucky (ZIP Code 42635), focusing on the availability and quality of primary care services. We will examine physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and evaluate the availability of mental health resources. The ultimate goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in this specific area.

The foundation of any health score analysis rests on the availability of primary care physicians. In Pine Knot, the physician-to-patient ratio presents a significant challenge. Rural communities often face shortages, and preliminary data suggests a concerning imbalance. This means that the number of patients per available primary care physician is likely higher than the national average. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses or treatments. Further investigation into the precise ratio, factoring in specialist availability and the demographics of the population, is crucial for a complete understanding.

Identifying standout practices is essential for understanding the quality of care available. While a comprehensive evaluation requires a deep dive into patient satisfaction surveys, clinical outcomes data (if publicly available), and physician qualifications, we can make some initial observations. Practices that prioritize patient-centered care, employ a diverse team of healthcare professionals (including nurses, physician assistants, and behavioral health specialists), and actively participate in community outreach programs are likely to be delivering a higher quality of care. Furthermore, practices that have successfully integrated electronic health records (EHRs) and utilize them effectively for care coordination and data analysis often demonstrate better patient outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor in assessing healthcare accessibility, especially in rural areas like Pine Knot. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with physicians remotely, access specialist care, and receive ongoing monitoring. The extent of telemedicine adoption within the primary care practices in 42635 is a key indicator of healthcare accessibility. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments, remote patient monitoring, and online patient portals, are likely to provide better access to care, particularly for patients with mobility issues or those living in remote locations. Conversely, limited telemedicine adoption may exacerbate existing access challenges.

Mental health resources are an integral part of overall health. The availability of mental health services in Pine Knot needs careful scrutiny. This includes the number of psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed clinical social workers, and other mental health professionals practicing in the area. Access to these professionals is critical for addressing the growing mental health needs of the population. The presence of community mental health centers, support groups, and crisis intervention services also significantly impacts the overall health score. Furthermore, the integration of mental health services into primary care practices, such as offering on-site counseling or behavioral health integration programs, is a positive indicator of a holistic approach to healthcare.

The quality of health insurance coverage is another significant factor. The percentage of the population with health insurance, the types of insurance plans available (e.g., Medicare, Medicaid, private insurance), and the affordability of healthcare services all impact the overall health score. Areas with high rates of uninsured or underinsured individuals often face significant health disparities.

Beyond the direct provision of medical care, the availability of community resources also plays a role. This includes access to healthy food options, safe housing, opportunities for physical activity, and social support networks. These social determinants of health significantly influence the overall well-being of the population.

The assessment of health outcomes, such as chronic disease prevalence, mortality rates, and infant mortality rates, provides a critical measure of the effectiveness of the healthcare system. These data points, when available and analyzed alongside the other factors, can provide a more comprehensive picture of the health of the community.

To further refine this analysis, we would need to gather more specific data. This includes detailed information on the number of primary care physicians, their specialties, and their patient loads. We would also need to assess the extent of telemedicine adoption, the availability of mental health services, and the quality of health insurance coverage. Patient satisfaction surveys and clinical outcomes data would provide valuable insights into the quality of care.

Ultimately, the overall health score for Pine Knot, KY (42635) is likely to be influenced by a complex interplay of factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the social determinants of health all contribute to the overall health of the community. Addressing the challenges and leveraging the strengths of the healthcare system will be critical for improving the health and well-being of the residents of Pine Knot.