19118, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 19118, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.89 percent of the residents in 19118 has some form of health insurance. 32.68 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.06 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 19118 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,904 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 512 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19118. An estimate of 108 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,394 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 106,221 health care providers accessible to residents in 19118, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in 19118 & Primary Care in Philadelphia

Analyzing the availability and quality of asthma care within ZIP code 19118, and placing it within the broader context of primary care accessibility across Philadelphia, reveals a complex landscape. The goal is to provide an "Asthma Score" analysis, acknowledging the multifaceted nature of asthma management and the crucial role of primary care physicians (PCPs). This analysis will consider physician-to-patient ratios, highlight exemplary practices, explore telemedicine integration, and examine the availability of mental health resources, all factors that contribute to the overall quality of asthma care.

The physician-to-patient ratio within 19118, and indeed across Philadelphia, is a critical determinant of access to care. While precise figures fluctuate, generally, areas with higher concentrations of medical professionals, like those near major hospitals or academic medical centers, tend to have more favorable ratios. However, this doesn't automatically translate into better asthma care. Factors like insurance acceptance, specialization, and practice efficiency play significant roles. A high physician-to-patient ratio can be misleading if many patients are unable to access those physicians due to logistical or financial barriers. Data regarding the specific ratio in 19118 is not readily available for this analysis, however, general knowledge of the area suggests that it is likely to be relatively favorable compared to other, less affluent parts of the city.

Standout practices within 19118 and the surrounding areas are those that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive asthma management. This extends beyond simply prescribing medication. These practices typically embrace patient education, provide clear asthma action plans, and offer regular follow-up appointments to monitor lung function and control. They may also have dedicated asthma educators or nurses who specialize in patient training and support. Furthermore, these practices often collaborate with pulmonologists and allergists to provide specialized care when needed. The practices that excel in this area are often those that prioritize a patient-centered approach, fostering a strong doctor-patient relationship built on trust and communication.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. For asthma patients, telemedicine offers several advantages. It allows for remote monitoring of symptoms, medication adjustments, and virtual consultations, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits, especially during periods of high pollen counts or viral outbreaks. This is particularly beneficial for patients with mobility issues or those living in areas with limited access to healthcare. The success of telemedicine adoption depends on several factors, including the availability of reliable internet access, patient comfort with technology, and the integration of telemedicine platforms into the existing practice workflow. Practices that have embraced telemedicine often report improved patient adherence to treatment plans and better overall asthma control.

The often-overlooked aspect of asthma management is the link between asthma and mental health. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and stress. Effective asthma care must therefore include access to mental health resources. This can involve screening for mental health conditions, providing referrals to therapists or counselors, and integrating mental health services into the overall treatment plan. Practices that recognize this connection and proactively address the mental health needs of their patients are better equipped to provide holistic and effective asthma care. This requires a collaborative approach, involving PCPs, mental health professionals, and potentially support groups or community resources.

Primary care availability across Philadelphia is a crucial factor in the overall asthma care landscape. The city's diverse population faces varying levels of access to healthcare, influenced by socioeconomic factors, insurance coverage, and geographic location. Areas with a shortage of PCPs often experience longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventive care, and a greater reliance on emergency room visits for asthma exacerbations. Addressing this disparity requires a multi-pronged approach, including increasing the number of primary care providers, expanding access to affordable healthcare, and promoting community-based health initiatives.

The "Asthma Score" for 19118, therefore, is not a simple number but rather a complex assessment based on the factors discussed above. It considers the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of exemplary practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. This score is also influenced by the broader context of primary care availability across Philadelphia. Areas with strong scores demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive asthma management, patient-centered care, and a holistic approach to health.

Ultimately, improving asthma care requires a collaborative effort involving healthcare providers, patients, community organizations, and policymakers. This involves addressing the systemic barriers that limit access to care, promoting patient education and self-management, and integrating mental health services into the treatment plan. The goal is to empower patients to take control of their asthma and live healthier, more fulfilling lives.

For a deeper understanding of healthcare accessibility, physician density, and the distribution of resources across Philadelphia, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. These maps offer a visual representation of the data discussed, allowing you to analyze the factors that contribute to the "Asthma Score" and identify areas where improvements are needed.