42764, Mount Sherman, Kentucky Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 42764, Mount Sherman, Kentucky is 15 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.26 percent of the residents in 42764 has some form of health insurance. 75.12 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 40.55 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 42764 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 107 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 42764. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 88 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 754 health care providers accessible to residents in 42764, Mount Sherman, Kentucky.

**Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors and Primary Care in Mount Sherman, KY (ZIP Code 42764)**

Evaluating the overall health landscape within Mount Sherman, Kentucky, specifically focusing on ZIP code 42764, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will assess the availability and quality of primary care physicians, considering factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. A comprehensive understanding of these elements is crucial for determining the overall health score and identifying areas for potential improvement.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a fundamental indicator of healthcare access. In rural areas like Mount Sherman, the availability of primary care physicians can be significantly lower than in urban centers. Analyzing the number of practicing physicians within the 42764 ZIP code and comparing it to the population size provides a preliminary assessment of access. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced continuity of care, and potentially poorer health outcomes. Data from the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure and the U.S. Census Bureau are critical sources for this calculation.

Identifying standout practices is essential for understanding the quality of care available. This involves evaluating factors such as patient satisfaction scores, physician experience, the range of services offered, and the integration of technology. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, offer comprehensive services, and embrace technological advancements are likely to contribute positively to the overall health score. Researching online reviews, consulting with local community members, and examining practice websites can help identify these leading practices.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas where geographical barriers can limit access to care. The extent to which physicians in the 42764 ZIP code offer telemedicine services, such as virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online prescription refills, significantly impacts the health score. Telemedicine can improve access to care, reduce travel time and costs, and enhance patient convenience. Evaluating the availability of these services and the technology infrastructure supporting them is crucial.

Mental health resources are a critical component of overall health. Assessing the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, within the 42764 ZIP code is vital. Access to mental health services can be particularly challenging in rural areas, and a lack of resources can negatively impact the overall health score. Examining the presence of mental health clinics, the availability of counseling services, and the integration of mental health care into primary care practices are essential considerations.

The overall health score for doctors in ZIP code 42764 is not a static number but a dynamic assessment that reflects the interplay of these factors. A high score would indicate a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of high-quality practices, widespread telemedicine adoption, and readily available mental health resources. Conversely, a low score would suggest challenges in accessing care, potential quality concerns, limited telemedicine availability, and inadequate mental health support.

The analysis of physician-to-patient ratios should consider the specific demographics of Mount Sherman. Factors such as the age distribution of the population, the prevalence of chronic diseases, and the socioeconomic status of residents can influence healthcare needs. For example, a community with a high proportion of elderly residents may require more geriatric care, while a community with a high prevalence of diabetes may need more specialized endocrinology services.

The evaluation of standout practices should extend beyond patient satisfaction scores. It should also consider the integration of preventative care services, such as screenings and vaccinations, and the adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) to improve care coordination and data management. Practices that proactively address preventative care and utilize EHRs are likely to contribute positively to the overall health score.

Telemedicine adoption should be assessed not only in terms of availability but also in terms of patient utilization and satisfaction. Understanding the barriers to telemedicine adoption, such as lack of internet access or patient comfort with technology, is crucial for developing strategies to improve access to virtual care. Furthermore, assessing the quality of telemedicine services, including the use of secure platforms and the provision of adequate patient support, is essential.

The assessment of mental health resources should consider the availability of a range of services, including individual therapy, group therapy, and medication management. It should also evaluate the integration of mental health care into primary care practices, which can improve access to care and reduce the stigma associated with mental illness. Partnerships between primary care physicians and mental health professionals can be particularly beneficial in rural areas.

Improving the overall health score for doctors in ZIP code 42764 requires a collaborative effort. Healthcare providers, community organizations, and government agencies must work together to address the challenges and opportunities. This may involve recruiting and retaining physicians, expanding telemedicine services, increasing access to mental health resources, and promoting preventative care.

The overall health score is not just a measure of healthcare access; it is also a reflection of the community's commitment to health and well-being. A healthy community is one that prioritizes the needs of its residents and works to create a supportive environment for everyone. This requires ongoing monitoring, evaluation, and improvement.

Data from various sources, including the Kentucky Department for Public Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, can provide valuable insights into the health status of the community. Analyzing data on chronic disease prevalence, mortality rates, and other health indicators can help identify areas where improvements are needed.

The overall health score should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. This ongoing monitoring ensures that the community remains informed and can adapt to evolving healthcare needs. The health score is a living document that should be used to guide decision-making and improve the health of the residents of Mount Sherman.

The analysis should also consider the impact of social determinants of health, such as poverty, education, and access to transportation. These factors can significantly influence health outcomes, and addressing them is essential for improving the overall health score. Collaborating with community organizations that address social determinants of health is crucial.

The health score should be used to advocate for policy changes that support healthcare access and quality. This may involve advocating for increased funding for healthcare programs, supporting policies that promote telemedicine, and advocating for policies that address social determinants of health.

To gain a deeper, visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Mount Sherman and the surrounding areas, including physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and demographic data, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps.