19131, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 19131, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 96 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.41 percent of the residents in 19131 has some form of health insurance. 46.40 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.75 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 19131 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 11,061 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 512 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19131. An estimate of 107 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 6,552 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 103,973 health care providers accessible to residents in 19131, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

## Arthritis Score: Philadelphia's Primary Care Landscape in 19131

Analyzing the primary care landscape in Philadelphia, specifically within the 19131 ZIP code, necessitates a multi-faceted approach. An “Arthritis Score,” though not a formal medical metric, serves as a useful framework to assess the accessibility and quality of care relevant to individuals managing arthritis. This analysis will consider factors impacting arthritis patients, including physician availability, practice characteristics, and the integration of supportive services. We will also examine primary care availability across Philadelphia, providing context for the 19131 area.

The foundation of any good “Arthritis Score” lies in physician-to-patient ratios. A higher ratio, indicating more patients per doctor, can strain access to care, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced time spent with each patient. Data on physician density within 19131 is crucial. Publicly available resources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and state medical boards provide some data, but the granularity needed for a precise analysis is often lacking. We must consider the overall primary care physician (PCP) density in Philadelphia as a whole, and then compare it to the 19131 area. Areas with lower PCP density may indicate a greater challenge for patients seeking timely access to care. This disparity can disproportionately affect those with chronic conditions like arthritis, who require regular check-ups and management.

Beyond physician numbers, the characteristics of individual practices significantly influence the “Arthritis Score.” Practices offering extended hours, including evening and weekend appointments, demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with arthritis, who may experience pain and stiffness that fluctuates throughout the day. Practices that readily accept insurance, including Medicare and Medicaid, are crucial for ensuring affordability and access to care. The financial burden of managing arthritis, including medication costs and specialist visits, can be significant. Practices that actively participate in these programs help alleviate this pressure.

Standout practices within the 19131 area and across Philadelphia would exhibit several key characteristics. They would demonstrate a patient-centered approach, prioritizing communication and shared decision-making. This includes actively listening to patients’ concerns, explaining treatment options clearly, and involving patients in their care plans. Practices that integrate electronic health records (EHRs) effectively can improve care coordination and communication. EHRs facilitate the sharing of medical information between providers, reducing the risk of errors and improving the efficiency of care. Furthermore, practices that offer on-site services, such as physical therapy or rheumatology consultations, can streamline the care process for arthritis patients.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor in the “Arthritis Score.” Telemedicine, including video consultations and remote monitoring, can improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. It allows patients to connect with their doctors from the comfort of their homes, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. The availability of telemedicine services within the 19131 area and across Philadelphia is an important indicator of the healthcare system's adaptability and its ability to meet the needs of a diverse patient population. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are likely to score higher on the “Arthritis Score.”

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but crucial component of managing arthritis. Chronic pain and disability can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to increased rates of depression and anxiety. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through on-site therapists or referrals to mental health professionals, demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care. This integration can improve patient outcomes and overall quality of life. The availability of these resources within the 19131 area and Philadelphia as a whole is a key factor in evaluating the comprehensive support available to arthritis patients.

The availability of primary care across Philadelphia presents a complex picture. While some areas may have a relatively high density of PCPs, others, including certain neighborhoods within the 19131 ZIP code, may face shortages. This disparity can create significant challenges for patients seeking timely access to care. Factors such as socioeconomic status, transportation options, and language barriers can further exacerbate these disparities. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-pronged approach, including efforts to increase the number of PCPs in underserved areas, improve access to transportation, and provide culturally competent care.

In conclusion, assessing the “Arthritis Score” for the 19131 area and Philadelphia requires a comprehensive analysis of physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. The availability of primary care across the city must be considered to provide context for the specific challenges faced by residents of 19131. The “Arthritis Score” serves as a valuable framework for evaluating the accessibility and quality of care for individuals managing arthritis.

To gain a deeper understanding of the primary care landscape in Philadelphia, and to visualize the distribution of physicians and resources, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps available through CartoChrome. These maps provide valuable insights into healthcare access, allowing you to identify areas with high and low physician density, and to assess the availability of key services. Explore the data and empower yourself with the knowledge you need to make informed decisions about your healthcare.