19143, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 19143, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 97 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.08 percent of the residents in 19143 has some form of health insurance. 52.31 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 51.87 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 19143 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 14,668 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 512 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19143. An estimate of 90 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 8,670 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 94,199 health care providers accessible to residents in 19143, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

**Arthritis Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 19143 & Primary Care Availability in Philadelphia**

The health landscape within Philadelphia's 19143 ZIP code, encompassing portions of South Philadelphia, presents a complex tapestry of primary care access, specialist availability, and the crucial support systems necessary for managing chronic conditions like arthritis. Analyzing this environment through an "Arthritis Score" lens requires a nuanced examination of several key factors, including physician density, practice specializations, technological integration, and the availability of supportive mental health resources. This analysis will extend beyond 19143 to consider the broader context of primary care availability throughout Philadelphia, as these two elements are intertwined.

The foundation of any successful arthritis management plan rests on the accessibility of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Philadelphia, and specifically within 19143, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical determinant of access. While precise figures fluctuate, the overall physician density in Philadelphia can be challenging, with certain neighborhoods experiencing shortages. This impacts the ability of patients to secure timely appointments for initial diagnoses, referrals to rheumatologists, and ongoing care coordination. A low physician-to-patient ratio suggests potential delays in accessing care, which can significantly worsen arthritis symptoms and quality of life.

Beyond sheer numbers, the specialization of practices within 19143 and the surrounding areas is crucial. While PCPs are the gatekeepers to healthcare, the availability of rheumatologists – specialists in the diagnosis and treatment of arthritis – is paramount. Assessing the number of rheumatologists practicing within a reasonable radius of 19143, and their respective appointment wait times, provides a critical indicator of the "Arthritis Score." A high concentration of rheumatologists, coupled with shorter wait times, would positively influence the score, indicating easier access to specialized care. Conversely, limited rheumatology availability, forcing patients to travel long distances or endure extended waits, would negatively impact the score.

Technological advancements, particularly telemedicine, have the potential to significantly improve the "Arthritis Score" by increasing access to care. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices and rheumatology clinics in 19143 is a key factor. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals can bridge geographical barriers, reduce the need for frequent in-person visits, and provide greater flexibility for patients managing their arthritis. Assessing the prevalence of telemedicine services, the ease of use of patient portals, and the integration of remote monitoring technologies provides insight into the technological readiness of the healthcare system.

The "Arthritis Score" also considers the availability of mental health resources. Arthritis is a chronic condition that can have a significant impact on mental well-being. The presence of depression, anxiety, and chronic pain can exacerbate arthritis symptoms and reduce quality of life. Therefore, the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, within 19143 and the surrounding areas is crucial. Practices that integrate mental health services, either directly or through referrals, contribute positively to the score. Conversely, a lack of mental health support would negatively affect the score, highlighting a potential gap in comprehensive care.

Several practices within and around 19143 may stand out in terms of their approach to arthritis care. These "standout practices" often demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, incorporating features such as:

* **Multidisciplinary teams:** These teams may include PCPs, rheumatologists, physical therapists, occupational therapists, and mental health professionals, working collaboratively to manage the patient's condition.
* **Patient education programs:** These programs empower patients with knowledge about their condition, self-management techniques, and available resources.
* **Support groups:** These groups provide a sense of community and allow patients to share experiences and support each other.
* **Emphasis on lifestyle modifications:** These practices may encourage patients to adopt healthy habits, such as exercise, a balanced diet, and stress management techniques.

Identifying these standout practices and their key attributes is essential for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape in 19143.

The broader context of primary care availability throughout Philadelphia significantly influences the "Arthritis Score" for 19143. The city's overall healthcare infrastructure, including the distribution of PCPs, the availability of specialists, and the presence of community health centers, impacts access to care for all residents, including those with arthritis. Examining the city's initiatives to improve primary care access, such as programs to attract and retain physicians in underserved areas, provides valuable context for the 19143 analysis.

The "Arthritis Score" for 19143, therefore, is not simply a numerical value but a holistic assessment of the healthcare environment. It takes into account the availability of physicians, the specialization of practices, the integration of technology, the availability of mental health resources, and the presence of patient-centered care initiatives. The score reflects the ability of patients with arthritis to access timely, comprehensive, and supportive care within their community.

To gain a more visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in 19143 and throughout Philadelphia, including physician locations, practice specializations, and access to resources, we recommend exploring the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome. Their maps provide a dynamic and informative way to visualize the data and gain deeper insights into the accessibility of care.